Polskie Nalesniki (Polish Pancakes)

Story behind the dish

Polish pancakes, or "naleśniki," are a beloved tradition that cozy kitchens in Poland have been perfecting for generations. These thin, delicate crepes are more than just a breakfast; they're a canvas for sweet and savory treats alike. Imagine stacking warm pancakes with a dollop of jam, a spread of sweet cheese, or even savory fillings like mushrooms or ham—each bite brings a touch of Polish charm to your table.

Making these pancakes at home is a warm cozy ritual, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas and creating memories with loved ones. Whether for brunch, a special dessert, or a quick snack, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) water
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 3 tablespoons (1.5 oz) butter (plus extra for greasing the pan, if desired)

Step-by-step

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, eggs, milk, water, a pinch of salt, and sugar. Mix using a hand mixer or whisk until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
2. Add the softened butter directly into the batter and stir until well incorporated, or use it to grease the pan before each pancake is cooked.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. When hot, pour in a small ladle of batter, swirling the pan to spread it thinly and evenly.
4. Cook until the edges begin to lift from the pan and the surface is no longer wet, about 1-2 minutes. Flip the pancake and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until golden.
5. Transfer the cooked pancake to a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as needed.
6. Serve warm with your favorite fillings—jam, sweet cheese, fresh fruit, or savory options like ham or mushrooms.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra crispiness, lightly butter the pancake before flipping.
• These pancakes are perfect for a versatile brunch—layer them with sweet or savory fillings and enjoy!

Closing thoughts

With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can easily recreate the comforting magic of Polish nalesniki right in your own kitchen. Serve them up with smiles and your favorite toppings, and let the warm, tender layers bring a bit of Polish sunshine into your day. Happy cooking!