Recipe

Baltimore-style Mini Pancakes (Bánh căn)

Charm City Pancake Delights

4.4 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Baltimore with these delightful mini pancakes, inspired by the traditional Vietnamese dish, Bánh căn. This fusion recipe combines the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with the unique tastes of Baltimore, resulting in a mouthwatering treat that will leave you craving for more.

Pancake› Bánh căn

Asian cuisine› Southeast Asian cuisine› Vietnamese cuisine

Cuisine of the Americas› American cuisine› Northeastern American cuisines› Cuisine of the Mid-Atlantic United States› Cuisine of Baltimore

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

15 minutes

Total time

30 minutes

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Pescatarian, Dairy-free (if using dairy-free butter and milk alternatives), Nut-free, Soy-free, Shellfish-free

Allergens

Wheat, Dairy, Eggs, Shellfish (in the crab dip)

Not suitable for

Vegan, Gluten-free, Egg-free, Paleo, Keto

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the traditional Bánh căn with the flavors of Baltimore. Instead of using traditional Vietnamese ingredients, we incorporate Baltimore's iconic Old Bay seasoning and serve the pancakes with a creamy crab dip. This fusion creates a delightful blend of Vietnamese and Baltimore cuisines, offering a unique and flavorful experience. We alse have the original recipe for Bánh căn, so you can check it out.

1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning 1/4 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
1 large egg 1 large egg
2 tablespoons melted butter 2 tablespoons melted butter
Cooking spray Cooking spray
Creamy crab dip, for serving Creamy crab dip, for serving

Nutrition

Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 2g
Protein: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and Old Bay seasoning.
2.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter.
3.
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking until just combined.
4.
Preheat a mini pancake pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray.
5.
Pour small amounts of batter into each pancake cavity, filling them about halfway.
6.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on the surface. Flip the pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7.
Repeat with the remaining batter.
8.
Serve the Baltimore-style mini pancakes warm, accompanied by a side of creamy crab dip.

Treat your ingredients with care...

Old Bay seasoning — Old Bay seasoning is a classic Baltimore spice blend. If you can't find it, you can make your own by combining celery salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dry mustard, nutmeg, cinnamon, and bay leaf powder.

Tips & Tricks

For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of Old Bay seasoning on top of each pancake before flipping.
Serve the pancakes with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy twist.
If you don't have a mini pancake pan, you can use a regular non-stick skillet and make larger pancakes.

Serving advice

Serve the Baltimore-style mini pancakes warm, with a generous dollop of creamy crab dip on top. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Arrange the mini pancakes on a platter, stacking them slightly to create height. Place a small bowl of creamy crab dip in the center for dipping. Sprinkle some additional Old Bay seasoning and chives on top for an attractive presentation.