Introduction
Breton pancakes, or “galettes de sarrasin,” are a beloved specialty from the Brittany region of France. Made from buckwheat flour, these savory pancakes are glutenfree and versatile, offering a perfect canvas for various fillings. If you’ve ever wondered how to bring the taste of Brittany to your kitchen, this guide will walk you through making these delicious pancakes at home.
Ingredients
For the Galettes:
1 cup buckwheat flour
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional: 1 egg (for richer flavor)
For Filling Options:
Grated cheese (e.g., Gruyere or Emmental)
Ham (preferably French jambon)
Egg
Sautéed mushrooms or spinach
Fresh herbs (e.g., parsley or chives)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the buckwheat flour and salt. Gradually add water, whisking until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If desired, you can incorporate an egg for a richer flavor. Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Heat the Pan:
Preheat a nonstick skillet or a traditional crêpe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan using a brush or paper towel dipped in oil or melted butter.
3. Cook the Galettes:
Pour a ladleful of the batter into the pan, tilting it to spread the batter evenly. Cook for 23 minutes or until the edges begin to lift and the bottom is lightly browned. Flip the galette and cook for another minute.
4. Add Fillings:
Once flipped, add your choice of fillings to one half of the galette. For example, place a handful of cheese, a slice of ham, and an egg. Fold the galette over to enclose the fillings and cook for an additional 12 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the egg to cook.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the cooked galette to a plate. Traditionally, they are served warm, garnished with fresh herbs. Pair with a crisp salad or a glass of cider for a classic Breton experience.
Tips for Success
Quality Ingredients: The key to excellent galettes is using highquality buckwheat flour and fresh fillings.
Adjust Consistency: Depending on the humidity and the flour brand, you may need to tweak the water amount to get the perfect batter.
Experiment: While traditional fillings are fantastic, feel free to experiment with vegetables, seafood, or even sweet fillings like fruit and chocolate.
Conclusion
Making classic Breton pancakes at home is not only achievable but also rewarding. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a taste of Brittany in your kitchen. Whether serving them at a casual brunch or a special occasion, these savory galettes are sure to impress your guests. Bon appétit!