clintonbee
Novice Foodie
I recently made Russian Blini, and they were a delightful treat! These thin, crepe-like pancakes are perfect for both sweet and savory toppings. Here’s how you can make them at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk, warmed
- 1 cup water, warm
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, separated
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Additional butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- Prepare the Batter: Add the salt and flour to the yeast mixture, whisking until smooth. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
- Add the Eggs and Butter: Once the batter has risen, whisk the egg yolks and melted butter into the batter. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter. Let the batter rest for another 30 minutes.
- Cook the Blini: Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with butter or oil. Pour a small ladleful of batter into the pan, swirling to spread it into a thin layer. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges start to lift, about 1-2 minutes. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until lightly golden. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as needed.
- Serve: Stack the cooked blini on a plate, separating each with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.
Suggested Toppings:
- Sweet: Sour cream and jam, honey, fresh berries, or sweetened condensed milk.
- Savory: Smoked salmon, caviar, sour cream, dill, or sautéed mushrooms.