Seafood pancake bake with cheese recipe
Discover the rich textures and flavours of the ocean with our seafood pancake recipe. This dish skilfully combines the freshness of shrimp with the richness of creamy sauces and the crispiness of lightly fried crêpes. Each bite delivers a taste of the sea, enhanced by a mix of fresh herbs and the subtle sharpness of horseradish, all wrapped in a delicate, buttery crêpe. Finished with melted cheese, this recipe impresses with both taste and presentation.
Ingredients
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Plain flour
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130 g |
|---|---|
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Milk
|
600 ml |
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Eggs
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3 |
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Butter and rapeseed oil
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4 tbsp |
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Salt
|
1 tsp |
Filling
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Small leek
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1 |
|---|---|
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Butter and rapeseed oil
|
15 g |
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Creme fraiche
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400 ml |
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Peeled prawns
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250 g |
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Finely grated peel and squeezed juice lemon
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1 |
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Fresh dill (handful)
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|
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Horseradish
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1 tbsp |
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Salt
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1 tsp |
To serve
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Grated cheese
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100 g |
|---|---|
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Chopped parsley
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1 tbsp |
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Mixed salads
|
500 g |
Instructions
Recommended information
Serving suggestion
Expert tips for rolling seafood pancakes
Rolling seafood pancakes may seem tricky, but with a few tips, you can master it with ease. First, ensure they are thin, pliable, and slightly cooled before adding the filling – hot crêpes can tear easily. Spread the shrimp filling evenly, leaving a 2-3 cm border around the edges to avoid overfilling or spillage. Begin rolling tightly from one end, gently pressing the filling as you go for a compact roll. If the filling feels too soft or wet, refrigerate it for a few minutes before spreading – it will firm up and be easier to handle. Finally, always place the rolled crêpes seam side down in your ovenproof dish to maintain their shape while baking.
Add the milk gradually for a smooth batter
One of the most important steps in making this recipe is achieving a smooth, lump-free batter. Start by whisking the flour with just half of the milk. This helps form a thick, uniform base that’s easier to work with. Gradually add the remaining milk while whisking continuously – this prevents lumps from forming and ensures a silky consistency. To further refine the batter, consider sifting the flour beforehand to remove any clumps. If lumps still persist, simply pass the batter through a fine mesh sieve to smooth it out. Letting the batter rest for at least 10 minutes before cooking also allows the flour to fully hydrate, resulting in tender, evenly cooked crêpes.
Leek cleaning techniques
Leeks can hold hidden dirt and grit between their layers, so proper cleaning is key. Start by trimming off the dark green tops and the root end. Halve the leek lengthwise, and rinse each half thoroughly under cold running water, fanning out the layers with your fingers to dislodge any debris. For extra precision, especially when slicing leeks, place the sliced pieces into a bowl of cold water. Swirl them around to loosen the dirt, and let the grit settle to the bottom before lifting the clean leeks out with a slotted spoon. Dry the leeks thoroughly on a clean kitchen towel before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Questions about this seafood pancake recipe
Explore the delightful nuances of creating the perfect seafood pancake with our specially curated FAQ section. Curious about the best types of seafood, alternative ingredients, or secrets to the ideal texture? These answers will help you create a delicious and impressive dish.
What can I use instead of crème fraiche?
If you don’t have crème fraiche, skyr is an excellent alternative. This Icelandic dairy product is thick, creamy, and tangy, making it a perfect substitute in savoury fillings like the prawn mixture in this recipe. Its slightly higher protein content also lends a rich texture, while maintaining the balance of flavours. You can use skyr in the same quantity as crème fraiche, ensuring your filling remains smooth and flavourful. Other options include Greek yoghurt or sour cream, though skyr's consistency and mild tanginess make it an ideal choice.
Why do I need to let the batter cool?
Cooling the batter before cooking is vital as it allows the gluten in the flour to relax and the starch grains to expand. This process leads to a smoother and more uniform texture. The resting period not only enhances the structure but also prevents the seafood pancakes from tearing during cooking or filling. Moreover, cooling helps the batter thicken properly, crucial for achieving the perfect texture of the crêpes.
How do I prevent the cheese topping from burning?
To achieve a perfectly melted cheese topping, grate the cheese finely so it melts evenly and quickly. Use a moderate amount of cheese to avoid clumping, as thick layers can take longer to melt and are more prone to burning. Bake the dish on the middle rack of the oven rather than the top, as the intense heat can scorch the cheese. If the cheese starts browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil to shield it from direct heat while still allowing the filling to cook through. These steps ensure a perfectly golden, bubbly topping every time.
Other recipes
Explore a variety of seafood options
While shrimp is a classic choice, you can also try crab meat for a sweet, delicate flavour, or scallops for a richer, buttery bite. Smoked salmon adds a bold, smoky depth to the filling, while flaky white fish, like cod or haddock, can create a lighter option. For a more luxurious twist, incorporate lobster or a mix of seafood for a medley of flavours. Adjust the seasoning and herbs to complement your choice – dill, parsley, and chives work beautifully with almost any seafood.
Feeling inspired? Try these thin Russian pancakes with whitefish roe and sour cream for an elegant twist, or these spinach pancakes filled with smoked salmon and cottage cheese for a vibrant and satisfying twist.
Horseradish substitutes
If you’re out of horseradish or prefer a milder alternative, several substitutes work well in seafood recipes. Dijon mustard provides a tangy kick and complements the shrimp filling beautifully. Wasabi paste is another option, offering a similar sharp heat with an extra zesty note. For a subtler approach, try grated fresh ginger – it adds warmth without overpowering the dish. Creamy options like prepared horseradish sauce or a mix of skyr and a touch of mustard can also provide the flavour balance you're looking for.
How do I know the batter has risen enough?
You’ll know the batter for this seafood pancake recipe is ready when it looks slightly thicker and has a glossy, uniform appearance. Tiny bubbles forming on the surface are also a good sign that it has hydrated properly. While it might not visibly "rise" like bread dough, the resting time is crucial for creating tender, pliable crêpes that cook evenly.
Zest lemons like a pro
To zest lemons for vibrant, aromatic results every time, use a fine grater or micro plane. Hold the lemon firmly and gently grate the outer yellow peel, rotating the fruit as you go. Avoid the bitter white pith underneath by applying light pressure. For even finer zest, use a sharp knife to chop it further. Add it directly to your batter, filling, or garnish for a burst of fresh, citrusy flavour that complements seafood perfectly.
How much batter should I use for each seafood pancake?
For thin, delicate crêpes, use about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. This ensures it spreads evenly in the pan, creating a consistent thickness that’s easy to roll without tearing. If you’re using a smaller pan, adjust to about 3 tablespoons of batter per pancake. Pour it into the centre of the hot pan and swirl it quickly to cover the surface in a thin, even layer. This technique creates the perfect base for your seafood filling.
What can I serve with this recipe?
Pairing the right dishes with your seafood pancakes can elevate the meal by adding texture, balance, and complementary flavours. Consider serving these savoury pancakes made with chickpeas and topped with creamy truffle cheese and fresh figs for a nutty, tangy contrast that enhances the seafood filling. Kale pancakes with a crunchy coleslaw and cottage cheese offer a fresh, earthy side that pairs perfectly with the richness of the seafood. Or, to add a satisfying crunch and flavour to the plate, try these crispy potato pancakes with creamy cottage cheese and a refreshing salad.
