Greek Yogurt Honey Pancakes

I first attempted this recipe in the late summer last year, and my pancakes turned out burnt. I recommend adding a big chuck of coconut oil to the pan so they will turn out fluffy and golden. To make this recipe vegan, simply use oat yogurt, coconut yogurt (or any plant based yogurt you find at the store). As I kept getting more experienced with this recipe, the texture, taste, and overall smell is very different to me than the processed pancake flour mix from the store- but it still tastes amazing. I encourage adding a slab of almond, cashew, or peanut butter to the pancake, or top it off with some maple syrup or extra honey. A few dark chocolate chips can be topped right after the pancake is cooked to add the melted sweet flavor. Cinnamon spiced berries and bananas also add to the flavoring of this breakfast.

These pancakes are a bit similar to the ones the Greek favor and sell in the modern local markets- depending on the region. But instead of flour, these pancakes include other “healthier” variations. In Greek, pancakes are called tiganites, and have existed since the ancient times. In the ancient times they called pancakes Teganitai and topped their pancakes with toasted sesame seeds, and made it with just 4 ingredients. The Greek physician Galen wrote a book called “De alimentorum facultatibus”, (On the properties of FoodStuff) between the years 207 CE to 216 CE about this recipe. It is believed that a version of these tiganites, combined with currants, walnuts, honey, and cinnamon was the first ever documented pancake. The process to making this is very similar pancakes today, but fewer ingredients: Flour, water, oil, salt, and honey. Modern recipes are varied by region, but are similar to texture from the ancient times, and are often overcomplicated with ingredients such as milk, yeast, butter, and sugar. Some modern recipes include raisin-studded pancakes ( from the region of Corfu)

Greek yogurt is the substitution of the oils and liquids you would find in a traditional pancake. Greek yogurt makes the pancakes, fluffy, silky, and light. It also is a healthier replacement of buttermilk pancakes, but is more lighter and nutritious. Any type of Greek yogurt works, flavored or plain, but the more healthier way to go is plain since you know there are no added sugars or preservatives.