Savory Pancakes with Tomato and Basil

Savory pancakes with tomato and basil are an excellent Mediterranean variant of the classic pancake. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

• 150 g flour
• 1 egg
• 200 ml milk
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder for savory cakes
• A pinch of salt
• 2 ripe but firm tomatoes
• A bunch of fresh basil
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan (optional)
• A pinch of sugar (optional)

Preparation

1. In a bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder and add the pinch of salt.
2. Add the egg and mix well with a hand whisk or a wooden spoon.
3. Gradually incorporate the milk, continuing to stir to avoid lumps until you get a homogeneous batter.
4. Wash the tomatoes, remove the seeds and cut them into cubes. If you prefer, you can add a pinch of sugar to enhance their sweetness.
5. Wash the basil, dry it and chop it finely (or tear it by hand to avoid oxidizing it).
6. Add the tomatoes and basil to the batter and mix gently.
7. Heat a non-stick pan and grease with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
8. Pour a ladle of batter into the pan to form a pancake. Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until bubbles form on the surface, then flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side.
9. Repeat the process until the batter is used up.
10. Serve the pancakes hot, with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired, and a garnish of fresh basil leaves.

Fun Facts

Savory pancakes are an alternative version to the better-known sweet pancakes. This tomato and basil variant is inspired by the classic flavors of Italian cuisine, particularly the famous combination of tomato and basil that recalls the flavors of the Mediterranean. They are perfect for a brunch or as an appetizer in a summer dinner.

Enjoy your meal!