Kaiserschmarren

Kaiserschmarren, traditionally also called Kaiserschmarrn, are a typical Austrian dessert, a sort of pancake cut into pieces and often served with powdered sugar and redcurrant jam or other fruits. Although it is a typically Austrian dish, I can suggest a slight Italian variant, perhaps serving them with local berry jam. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• 4 eggs, separated
• 60 g sugar
• 1 pinch of salt
• 250 ml milk
• 200 g flour
• Butter for cooking
• Powdered sugar for decorating
• Berry jam for serving

Preparation

1. Whip the egg whites to stiff peaks with a pinch of salt.
2. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar until you obtain a light and frothy mixture.
3. Alternate adding milk and flour to the egg yolk and sugar mixture, stirring gently to maintain a smooth and homogeneous consistency.
4. Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the rest of the batter, being careful not to deflate them.
5. Melt a knob of butter in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
6. Pour the batter into the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden. Using two forks or a spatula, tear the Kaiserschmarren into irregular pieces.
7. When golden, dust with powdered sugar and serve hot with a side of berry jam.

Kaiserschmarren have an interesting history: they are said to have been the favorite dessert of Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I. Their simple yet delicious preparation has made them popular in many countries outside Austria. Enjoy!