The Family Cookbook
Culinary Heirlooms
Special Mother's Day Edition!
by Doug Anderson
Reprinted from Bulletin 042, May 11, 2003

       There is no word in the English language as sublime as "Mother." It instantly conjures images of comfort, warmth and stability. And if you're lucky, like me, the word "Mother" also reminds you of good food! That's why today's focus is on my Mom. (You want it to be on your Mom? Get your own column!)
       The following recipe was on my request because I remember many fine drizzly spring or fall days eating pancakes for supper, a heresy in some families. I remember especially the thin ones that I thought we called "Swedish Pancakes." Perhaps this is just a faux memory, but that's what I remember them being called; please correct me if I'm wrong, as I'm sure you will.
       Heat up your syrup in a pan of water and prepare yourself for:

Mom's Super-thin "Swedish" Pancakes

Beat 2 large eggs until bright yellow*
Gradually add 4 tablespoons sugar and then a half teaspoon of salt.
Add 2 cups of milk.
 
Add a scant cup of flour gradually.**

Spray heated griddle with pan release spray.
Spread the batter in very thin pools.
Cook at high to medium temperature.
The pancakes must be prepared and eaten immediately, as they do not "keep" well.
The pancakes need only to be flipped once and then transferred to a warmed plate.
Serve with warmed syrup.***

* Mom describes the color as "lemony." She also suggests using a blender to make sure the mixture is as smooth as possible.
** Mom says it is "crucial" that the flour is added gradually, until the mixture "looks like a thick cream." She also adds that it may or may not take the entire cup of flour.
*** Mom says "Some like fruits and creams (instead of syrup); after all, this is just another crepe in Plebeian clothes. I know I loved them with Grandma Cleo's Chokeberry syrup and thick cream! Yummy!"

    Thanks Mom, although I have to admit to feeling a bit disillusioned at hearing my childhood favorite described as "Just another crepe in Plebeian clothes!" Oh well, "a rose by any other name" and all that jazz, I guess. Happy Mother's Day everyone! (Where applicable.)

Next week:  An experiment in contrast and comparison, really this time!

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