Assyrian-style Stuffed Pannekoek

Ingredients

In this Assyrian adaptation of Pannekoek, the traditional sweet toppings like syrup or powdered sugar are replaced with a savory filling inspired by Assyrian flavors. The original Dutch Pannekoek is usually served as a sweet treat, while the Assyrian-style Stuffed Pannekoek offers a savory and hearty option. We alse have the original recipe for Pannekoek, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (470ml) milk 2 cups (470ml) milk
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef 1 lb (450g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, salt, and vegetable oil until smooth. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the ground lamb or beef to the pan and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. 4.
   Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, ground cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
5. 5.
   Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and mint. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Preheat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Pour a ladleful of the pancake batter into the pan and swirl it around to create a thin, even layer. Cook until the edges start to lift and the bottom is golden brown. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
7. 7.
   Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate and spoon a generous amount of the prepared filling onto one half of the pancake. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
8. 8.
   Repeat steps 6 and 7 with the remaining batter and filling.
9. 9.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the stuffed Pannekoek on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
10. 10.
    Serve the Assyrian-style Stuffed Pannekoek warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground lamb or beef — Make sure to use lean ground meat for a healthier option. You can also mix lamb and beef for a more complex flavor.
• Fresh herbs — If fresh parsley and mint are not available, you can substitute with dried herbs. Use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and 1/2 teaspoon of dried mint instead.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped chili pepper to the filling.
• Serve the Assyrian-style Stuffed Pannekoek with a side of yogurt or tzatziki sauce for a refreshing contrast.
• Experiment with different fillings such as spiced ground chicken or a vegetarian option with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, you can fry the stuffed Pannekoek in a little oil instead of baking it.
• Leftover Pannekoek can be refrigerated and reheated in a toaster oven for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Assyrian-style Stuffed Pannekoek as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or pickled vegetables. Cut each stuffed Pannekoek into halves or quarters for easy serving.

Presentation advice

Place the stuffed Pannekoek on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint leaves. The golden brown color of the Pannekoek and the savory filling will make for an appetizing presentation.