Delicious Oat Flour Pancakes - A Perfect Breakfast Treat

Oat flour pancakes, or "auzu miltu pankukas" as they're known in Latvia, offer a delightful twist on the traditional breakfast fare. With a subtle nutty flavor, these pancakes are rich in nutrients and provide a hearty start to your day. Using oat flour instead of regular wheat flour makes this recipe gluten-free and nutrient-dense. Originating from Latvian cuisine, these pancakes are often paired with sweet or savory toppings, making them versatile and perfect for any taste preference.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

260 g oat flour
1 egg
400 ml kefir
40 g mild honey (or other sweetener)
15 ml neutral oil or butter

Spices and Other Ingredients:

30 g hazelnuts
1 pinch sea salt
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp cinnamon
Zest of 1/2 an orange
2 egg whites

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Preparation: 20 minutes
Cooking: 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Hazelnut Flour: In a blender, blend hazelnuts until they resemble a fine flour, making sure not to over-blend to avoid turning them into nut butter.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift the blended hazelnuts into a mixing bowl. Add oat flour, sea salt, cinnamon, baking powder, and orange zest. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
Create a Well: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Add the whole egg, half of the kefir, honey, and oil. Start combining the ingredients gradually to form a thick batter.
Incorporate Remaining Kefir: As the batter thickens, gradually add the remaining kefir. Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency without any lumps.
Beat the Egg Whites: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This will give your pancakes a fluffy texture.
Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the egg whites into the batter using a spatula, being careful not to deflate them. This step is crucial for the lightness of the pancakes.
Heat a Pan: Preheat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Lightly grease it with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook the Pancakes: Pour small amounts of batter onto the pan to form pancakes. Cook until the underside is golden brown and bubbles form on the surface, about 2-3 minutes.
Flip the Pancakes: Carefully flip each pancake and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until golden.
Serving: Serve hot with your desired toppings, such as caramel, jam, almond butter, or date syrup. Enjoy!

Tips

Substitute Nuts: If hazelnuts aren't available, try almonds or walnuts for a similar texture and taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients, especially the oat flour, are certified gluten-free if needed.
Sweetener Choices: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if preferred.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 10 g
Fats: 14 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based milk instead of kefir.
Savory Twist: Add cheese and herbs to the batter for a savory pancake experience.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet Toppings: Fresh fruits, yogurt, honey, or fruit compote enhance the sweetness.
Savory Pairings: Serve with smoked salmon and cream cheese for a unique twist.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of herbal tea or freshly squeezed orange juice.

Best Places to Try

Olu Kafija - Known for its fluffy oat pancakes paired with natural syrups. Location: Tirgonu iela 6, Riga, Latvia.
Mūsu Terase - Offers a variety of pancakes made with local ingredients. Location: Amatu iela 3, Cesis, Latvia.
Pankūku Pils - Famous for both sweet and savory pancake options in a cozy setting. Location: Stabu iela 8, Ventspils, Latvia.
Valtera Restorāns - Traditional Latvian cuisine with a modern twist, including oat pancakes. Location: Kr. Barona iela 4, Riga, Latvia.
Restorāns 3 - Oriģinālās breakfast options, including innovative takes on oat pancakes. Location: Tirgoņu iela 23, Riga, Latvia.
Brewery Pancakes - Famous for its inventive pancake flavors paired with locally brewed drinks. Location: Baznīcas laukums 1, Valmiera, Latvia.
Zelta Rasa - Focuses on organic ingredients and sustainable cooking methods. Location: Lāčplēša iela 12, Jelgava, Latvia.
Kaļķu Vārti - Elegant dining offers, including gourmet oat flour pancakes. Location: Laipu iela 5, Riga, Latvia.
Kafe Kafe Club - Offers vibrant and colorful pancakes with a charming interior. Location: Blaumaņa iela 3, Liepaja, Latvia.
Klinšu Zivis Bistro - Features a unique selection of breakfast dishes, including hearty oat pancakes. Location: Brīvības bulvāris 15, Riga, Latvia.