Panqueques Manjar de Chile
Introduction
Panqueques Manjar de Chile are a delightful and popular dessert in Chile, known for their luscious caramel filling. "Panqueques" translates to "pancakes", but these are much thinner and resemble French crepes. The "manjar" is similar to dulce de leche, a rich caramel spread made from sweetened condensed milk. This treat showcases the influence of European culinary traditions intertwined with local flavors, and is a staple in Chilean households. We'll explore the ingredients, preparation, and even a bit of history behind this cherished dish.
History
The origin of panqueques in Chile can be traced back to European immigrants who brought their crepe-making skills to South America. Over time, the dish has been adapted to local tastes, with manjar becoming the quintessential filling for these delicate pancakes. Manjar itself is deeply rooted in Latin American cuisine and is widely used across the continent. In Chile, panqueques manjar are often enjoyed during tea time, known locally as "once", or as a dessert following family meals.
Ingredients
To create authentic Panqueques Manjar de Chile, you will need the following ingredients:
Preparation
Step 1: Creating the Batter
Begin by focusing on the batter, which forms the base for the panqueques. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of milk, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth batter. Allow the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes to let the gluten relax, resulting in a tender panqueque.
Step 2: Cooking the Panqueques
Warm a non-stick skillet over medium heat and coat with a small amount of butter. Once the butter melts and the skillet is hot, pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the center. Quickly swirl the skillet to spread the batter evenly in a thin layer. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until the edges turn golden brown. You might find it helpful to set a cooking timer for each side. Remove from skillet and repeat with the remaining batter, adding more butter as needed.
Step 3: Preparing the Manjar Filling
While traditionally you'd make manjar by simmering sweetened condensed milk, for convenience, prepared manjar can be used. If homemade, cook one can of sweetened condensed milk in a bain-marie for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally and being careful it doesn’t burn. Ensure it cools completely before use.
Step 4: Assembling the Panqueques Manjar
Take one panqueque and spread a generous layer of manjar over one side. Roll the panqueque tightly, much like you would a swiss roll. Repeat with each pancake until all batter is used up.
Serving Suggestions
Panqueques Manjar de Chile can be served warm or at room temperature. For added flavor, consider drizzling them with chocolate sauce or serving them with fresh fruit such as berries or bananas. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also add a delightful touch. Typically enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee during the afternoon, these panqueques can also be served as a dessert.
Conclusion
Now you have the knowledge and recipe to make authentic Panqueques Manjar de Chile. This experience not only allows you to indulge in a traditional Chilean dessert but also connects you with the rich history and influence behind the dish. Whether you are sharing with family or enjoying them alone as a special treat, these panqueques are sure to bring joy and a taste of Chile to your home.