Have you ever wondered why we devour stacks of fluffy pancakes on a random Tuesday in early spring?
Or where that tradition even began?
The story behind Shrove Tuesday is as rich and flavorful as the pancakes themselves.
And guess what?
If you are in the US, you can continue the tradition with Ihop Free Pancakes!
Shrove Tuesday: More Than Just Pancakes
Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, is a Christian festival observed globally.
Celebrated especially in the UK, Ireland, Canada, and Australia, it’s marked by – you guessed it – eating pancakes.
But why pancakes?
Shrove Tuesday falls the day before Lent, a 40-day period of sacrifice leading up to Easter.
“Shrove” is the past tense of “shrive,” meaning to seek confession and penance from a priest.
Think of it as a culinary clean-out before a period of religious reflection.
It always takes place 47 days before Easter Sunday.
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, immediately following Shrove Tuesday, marking the start of a reflective period for many Christians.
In essence, Shrove Tuesday was the last hurrah before Lent began.
Families would use up ingredients they wouldn’t consume during Lent, such as flour, eggs, and milk – turning them into delicious pancakes.
What better way to remove temptation than to eat it?
Lent symbolizes the 40 days Jesus spent fasting in the wilderness.
For many, it is a time for sacrifice and willpower.
For many Christians, Lent is a time to reflect on the events leading to the death of Jesus Christ, and it represents the sacrifice Jesus made during his time in the desert.
Pancake Races and Mardi Gras: Global Celebrations
Speaking of traditions, ever heard of a pancake race?
It’s exactly what it sounds like!
The legend goes that a woman, caught up in pancake-making, rushed to church upon hearing the shriving bell, still clutching her frying pan.
This led to pancake races, where participants flip pancakes in a pan while running.
The Olney pancake race, dating back to around 1445 in Buckinghamshire, is now world-famous!
Who knew a simple breakfast staple could inspire such spirited competition?
In other parts of the world, Shrove Tuesday takes on different forms.
In France and the USA, it’s known as Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday.” While carnivals and celebrations abound, pancakes aren’t always the star.
Over in Spain, the Thursday before Ash Wednesday is Jueves Lardero, or “Fat Thursday,” where people use up their eggs making delicious omelettes.
Here’s a glimpse at a small print of pancakes for National Pancake Day from the Sacramento History Museum:
IHOP and National Pancake Day: A Sweet Deal
In the U.S., IHOP has turned Pancake Day into a national event.
Known as National Pancake Day, IHOP often offers a free short stack of buttermilk pancakes to dine-in customers.
IHOP’s National Pancake Day often coincides with Shrove Tuesday, making it a double celebration for pancake lovers.
Check out what Vicky Nguyen from NBC’s Today show is saying about National Pancake Day:
In fact, IHOP once broke a Guinness World Record for serving the most pancakes in eight hours!
In honor of IHOP’s servings, the company donated money to Feeding America, showing how a love for pancakes can also support a good cause.
Other Options for Free Pancake Offers
Denny’s is another restaurant chain celebrating National Pancake Day.
Denny’s does not have free pancakes, customers can take advantage of the “All You Can Eat Pancakes” deal.
With the first round being three buttermilk pancakes, the price for an endless supply is $6.
For more details on the IHOP deal, check out this video from The Krazy Coupon Lady:
A Simple Pancake Recipe to Try At Home
Feeling inspired?
Here’s a basic pancake recipe to get you started:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Do not overmix. - Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat.
- Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Add your favorite toppings like syrup, fruit, or chocolate chips, and enjoy the festivities!
The Enduring Appeal of Pancakes
From its religious origins to its modern-day celebrations, the tradition of Shrove Tuesday, coupled with the fun of National Pancake Day, highlights the enduring appeal of pancakes.
Whether you’re flipping them in a race or enjoying a free stack at IHOP, these delicious treats bring people together.
So, what are your favorite pancake toppings?
And how will you celebrate next year’s Pancake Day?
Beyond Buttermilk: Pancake Variations from Around the World
While the classic buttermilk pancake holds a special place in many hearts, the world of pancakes is vast and varied!
Each culture has put its unique spin on this beloved dish, creating a delicious tapestry of flavors and textures.
Let’s embark on a culinary journey to explore some exciting pancake variations from around the globe.
Japanese Soufflé Pancakes: A Cloud on Your Plate
Imagine a pancake so light and airy that it resembles a cloud.
That’s precisely what you get with Japanese soufflé pancakes!
These towering treats are incredibly fluffy, jiggly, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
The secret lies in whipping the egg whites to stiff peaks and gently folding them into the batter.
Served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup, they are a truly heavenly experience.
Dutch Baby Pancake: A Dramatic Oven-Baked Delight
Forget flipping!
The Dutch Baby pancake is baked in a cast-iron skillet until it puffs up dramatically, creating a golden-brown, cratered masterpiece.
Its custardy texture and slightly eggy flavor make it a satisfying and impressive brunch option.
Top it with powdered sugar, lemon wedges, and your favorite berries for a burst of freshness.
Korean Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchijeon): Savory and Spicy
For those who prefer savory over sweet, Korean kimchi pancakes, or Kimchijeon, are a must-try.
These crispy, savory pancakes are packed with fermented kimchi, giving them a tangy, spicy, and umami-rich flavor.
They are often served as a side dish or appetizer, but they are equally satisfying as a light meal.
Dipping them in a soy sauce-vinegar mixture adds an extra layer of complexity.
French Crêpes: Thin, Delicate, and Versatile
Ah, the crêpe – the epitome of French elegance and versatility!
These thin, delicate pancakes can be enjoyed sweet or savory.
For a sweet treat, fill them with Nutella, bananas, and strawberries, or drizzle them with salted caramel sauce.
For a savory option, try ham and cheese, spinach and mushrooms, or a creamy béchamel sauce.
The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Perfecting Your Pancake Game
Whether you’re aiming for fluffy buttermilk pancakes or adventurous international variations, here are a few tips to elevate your pancake game:
* **Don’t Overmix the Batter:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough pancakes.
Mix until just combined, leaving a few lumps.
* **Use a Hot Griddle or Pan:** A hot surface ensures even cooking and a golden-brown exterior.
Test the heat by flicking a few drops of water onto the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
* **Use Butter or Oil Sparingly:** Too much fat can make your pancakes greasy.
Lightly grease the griddle or pan between batches.
* **Flip When Bubbles Form:** When bubbles start to appear on the surface and the edges look set, it’s time to flip.
* **Keep Pancakes Warm:** If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked pancakes warm in a preheated oven (200°F) on a baking sheet.
Pancake Topping Inspiration: Beyond Syrup
While syrup is a classic pancake topping, don’t limit yourself!
Here are some creative topping ideas to tantalize your taste buds:
* **Fresh Fruit:** Berries, bananas, peaches, and mangoes add sweetness and vibrancy.
* **Whipped Cream:** Light and fluffy whipped cream is always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Nutella:** A chocolate-hazelnut spread that elevates any pancake.
* **Peanut Butter:** For a protein-packed and satisfying topping.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Dark, milk, or white – the choice is yours!
* **Nuts:** Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds add crunch and flavor.
* **Compote:** A homemade fruit compote adds a touch of elegance.
* **Lemon Curd:** Tangy and sweet, lemon curd brightens up any pancake.
* **Bacon:** Crispy bacon adds a savory and salty element.
* **Fried Egg:** Top your pancake with a fried egg for a breakfast that will keep you full all morning.
So, grab your whisk, heat up your griddle, and get ready to explore the wonderful world of pancakes!
Whether you stick to the classics or venture into new territories, there’s a pancake out there for everyone.
Happy flipping!
Pancake Day FAQs
What is Shrove Tuesday?
Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake Day, is a Christian festival observed globally the day before Lent.
It’s a time to use up ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk before the fasting period.
Why do people eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday?
Pancakes are traditionally eaten on Shrove Tuesday to use up ingredients like flour, eggs, and milk before Lent, a 40-day period of sacrifice leading up to Easter.
What is National Pancake Day?
In the U.S., National Pancake Day is an event where restaurants like IHOP offer free pancakes to dine-in customers, often coinciding with Shrove Tuesday.
The Sweet Tradition Continues
From its historical roots in religious observance to the modern-day fun of free pancake stacks, the celebration of Shrove Tuesday and National Pancake Day offers a delightful blend of tradition, community, and of course, delicious pancakes.
Whether you’re racing with a frying pan or simply enjoying a homemade batch, the enduring appeal of pancakes is clear!
