Blintzes are thin, crepe-like pancakes traditionally filled with sweet cheese or fruit. Originating in Eastern Europe, they are often associated with Jewish holidays like Shavuot. The dish is typically fried or baked and served with toppings such as sour cream or jam.
Making Blintzes:
1. Ingredients
For the crepes: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 1 1/4 cups milk, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon melted butter. For the filling: 2 cups farmer's cheese or ricotta, 1 large egg yolk, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. For frying: 2 tablespoons butter.
2. Prepare the Crepe Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk until combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth. Stir in the melted butter. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
3. Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix the farmer's cheese or ricotta, egg yolk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
4. Cook the Crepes
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet, tilting to spread evenly. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the edges lift, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds. Repeat with remaining batter, stacking cooked crepes on a plate.
5. Fill the Crepes
Place a crepe on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of the crepe. Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll up tightly.
6. Fry the Blintzes
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the filled blintzes seam-side down and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Serve
Serve the blintzes warm, optionally topped with sour cream, fruit preserves, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Traditions and Heritage of Blintzes
Blintzes
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are blintzes?
Blintzes are thin, crepe-like pancakes that are typically filled with sweetened cheese, fruit, or potatoes, then folded and pan-fried or baked. They are a traditional Jewish dish often served during holidays like Shavuot.
Are blintzes the same as crepes?
While blintzes and crepes are similar in that they are both thin pancakes, blintzes are usually filled, folded, and cooked a second time (fried or baked), whereas crepes are often served flat or rolled with fillings added just before eating.
What is the traditional filling for blintzes?
The most traditional filling for blintzes is a sweetened farmer's cheese or ricotta mixture, often flavored with vanilla or lemon. Other popular fillings include fruit like blueberries or cherries, or savory options like mashed potatoes.
How do you serve blintzes?
Blintzes are commonly served warm, often topped with sour cream, applesauce, fruit compote, or a dusting of powdered sugar. They can be eaten for breakfast, dessert, or as a main dish depending on the filling.
What's the difference between blintzes and latkes?
Blintzes are thin filled pancakes that are folded and cooked, while latkes are potato pancakes that are shredded and fried. Both are Jewish foods but have completely different textures and preparations.
