Icelandic-inspired Cheese Pancakes

Ingredients

While the original Georgian Chvishtari is typically made with cornmeal and filled with cheese, this Icelandic adaptation replaces the cornmeal with flour and incorporates traditional Icelandic herbs and spices. The result is a lighter and fluffier pancake with a unique Nordic flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Chvishtari, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (200g) Icelandic cheese, grated (such as skyr or Gullost) 2 cups (200g) Icelandic cheese, grated (such as skyr or Gullost)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Cooking oil, for frying Cooking oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the grated Icelandic cheese, fresh dill, chives, and dried thyme to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the buttermilk and melted butter, and whisk until well combined.
4. 4.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. 5.
   Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with cooking oil.
6. 6.
   Spoon about 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. 7.
   Repeat with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
8. 8.
   Serve the cheese pancakes warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Icelandic cheese — Use skyr or Gullost for an authentic Icelandic taste.
• Fresh dill — Chop the dill just before using to preserve its flavor.
• Fresh chives — Snip the chives with kitchen scissors for easy and even distribution in the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked Icelandic sea salt to the batter.
• Serve the pancakes with a dollop of Icelandic skyr and a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.
• Experiment with different types of Icelandic cheese to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Make a larger batch of pancakes and freeze the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal option.
• Serve the pancakes with a side of Icelandic pickled herring for a traditional Nordic pairing.

Serving advice

Serve the Icelandic-inspired cheese pancakes warm, either as a main dish or as part of a brunch spread. They pair well with a side of Icelandic skyr or a simple green salad.

Presentation advice

Stack the cheese pancakes on a plate and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or chives. Drizzle a little melted butter over the top for an extra touch of indulgence.