Vanjkuši with a Eurasian Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Vanjkuši recipe from Serbian cuisine is infused with the flavors of Eurasian cuisine. The original recipe is modified by incorporating ingredients commonly found in Eurasian dishes, such as coconut milk, palm sugar, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and cardamom. The addition of these ingredients gives the pancakes a unique and exotic flavor profile, distinct from the traditional Serbian version. We alse have the original recipe for Vanjkuši, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (240ml) rice flour 1 cup (240ml) rice flour
• 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 2 tablespoons palm sugar, grated 2 tablespoons palm sugar, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup grated coconut 1/4 cup grated coconut
• Gula Melaka syrup, for serving Gula Melaka syrup, for serving
• Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish Toasted coconut flakes, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.02g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour, coconut milk, water, grated palm sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom. Mix well until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
2. 2.
   Stir in the grated coconut into the batter.
3. 3.
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil.
4. 4.
   Pour a ladleful of the batter onto the pan and spread it into a thin, round pancake.
5. 5.
   Cook the pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
7. 7.
   Serve the Vanjkuši pancakes warm, drizzled with gula melaka syrup and sprinkled with toasted coconut flakes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice flour — Ensure that the rice flour used is finely ground to achieve a smooth batter.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure the cream and liquid are well combined.
• Palm sugar — Grate the palm sugar using a fine grater to ensure it dissolves easily in the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves to the batter.
• If you prefer a sweeter pancake, you can increase the amount of palm sugar in the batter.
• To make the pancakes more indulgent, serve them with a dollop of coconut ice cream or whipped cream.
• If gula melaka syrup is not available, you can substitute it with maple syrup or honey.
• To enhance the texture, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter.

Serving advice

Serve the Vanjkuši pancakes warm as a delightful breakfast or dessert. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a scoop of coconut ice cream for an extra treat.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Vanjkuši pancakes on a plate, drizzle them generously with gula melaka syrup, and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an added touch of freshness.