Instructions: Most of the countries of the world serve some sort of pancake, from French crepes to Russian blini. Even waffles can either be Belgian or just plain American. Unfortunately, many waffle and pancake recipes are high in fat and really heavy. Is it possible to lighten up your morning pancakes? Yes, it is!

Sourdough starters, yeast, and other leaveners like baking soda and baking powder are used in dairy-free pancakes and waffles. All these batters will improve after standing; so dont be afraid to cover and refrigerate overnight before cooking. Leftover pancakes and waffles freeze quite well.

I use the microwave to heat up frozen pancakes, and I pop frozen waffles into the toaster to regain their nice crispy texture.

Pancakes should be cooked on a hot griddle. One way to prepare pancakes for a large group of people at the same time is to use a large griddle or two or three nonstick skillets at once. I have a nice enameled cast iron griddle that fits over two range burners; so I can prepare about 8-10 pancakes at the same time. To keep pancakes warm until serving time, place on a platter covered with foil in a 200- degree oven. Waffles should be placed directly on your ovens racks at 200 degrees to keep warm.

All waffle irons are not created equal. Ive tested several different models and found some are more nonstick than others. To prevent a sticky waffle disaster, pre-season your waffle iron each time you make a batch by brushing with vegetable oil or spraying with vegetable cooking spray.

Repeat this process if you notice the waffles beginning to stick.

Whether you use your grandmothers heavy old four-waffle baker or one of the new fancy-shaped nonstick models, you really dont need to use a lot of oil to cook waffles. Some new waffle irons have a temperature setting which gives you more control over the waffles doneness. (All the waffles waffler.)

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