Indulging in a delicious breakfast or snack doesn't have to be complicated. Russian Cottage Cheese Pancakes, known as Syrniki, are a testament to this simplicity. This delightful recipe calls for well-drained farmer's cheese, ensuring your pancakes are perfectly tender and flavorful. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the plate, these pancakes are ideally served with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream and a spoonful of your favorite jam. Let's dive into the making of this mouth-watering dish.
Start with the right consistency of farmer's cheese - soft yet thoroughly drained of whey.
An optimal texture is crucial as overly liquid cheese requires more semolina or flour, affecting the tenderness of the pancakes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cheese, semolina (or flour), egg, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Stir until you achieve a uniform mixture.
The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky but manageable.
Lightly flour your hands and scoop a tablespoon of the mixture to start forming your pancake.
Gently form the mixture into a ball using both hands.
Roll the formed ball in flour laid out on a plate.
Press the ball slightly with your palm to flatten it, aiming for about a finger's thickness.
Cook the pancakes in a preheated pan with a bit of oil until each side is golden brown. Ensure the pan is well-heated for the best results.
This recipe yields approximately two pans' worth of Syrniki.
You should have around 12 pancakes, ready to be served hot. They also taste great cold, though they firm up a bit.
Serve your Syrniki with a side of sour cream and jam for the perfect flavor combination.
Enjoy!