Parisian Duet Crêpes
About Parisian Duet Crêpes
The Parisian Duet Crêpes are a classic dish that perfectly encapsulates the elegance and simplicity of French cuisine. Originating from the Brittany region of France, crêpes have been a staple in French cooking for centuries. The word 'crêpe' itself comes from the Latin word 'crispa,' meaning curled, which reflects the crêpe's naturally delicate and slightly curled edges. Traditionally, crêpes can be savory (often called 'galettes') or sweet, making them a versatile dish for any meal. The Parisian Duet version combines the best of both worlds - a perfect pairing of savory and sweet that is quintessentially Parisian, giving you an authentic taste of Paris in the comfort of your home.
Ingredients for the Crêpe Batter
- All-purpose Flour - 1 cup
- Eggs - 2 large
- Milk - 1 1/2 cups
- Water - 1/2 cup
- Melted Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Salt - a pinch
- Sugar (optional) - 1 tablespoon (for sweet crêpes)
Ingredients for the Savory Filling
- Ham - 4 slices
- Gruyere Cheese - 1/2 cup, grated
- Spinach - 1 cup, fresh
- Olive Oil - 1 tablespoon
- Black Pepper - to taste
Ingredients for the Sweet Filling
- Strawberries - 1 cup, sliced
- Nutella - 1/2 cup
- Powdered Sugar - for dusting
Preparation
Preparing the Crêpe Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Gradually add the milk, water, and melted butter to the eggs, mixing continuously. Combine this liquid mixture with the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. If preparing sweet crêpes, mix in the optional sugar at this stage. Allow the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to ensure optimal texture.
Preparing the Savory Filling
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with a pinch of black pepper to taste.
Preparing the Sweet Filling
Wash and slice the strawberries, ensuring they are clean and ready for assembling the crêpes.
Cooking Process
Once the batter has rested, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and lightly coat with butter. Pour a small amount of the batter (approximately 1/4 cup) onto the pan, tilting it in a circular motion to quickly and evenly spread the batter. Cook for about 1-2 minutes or until the edges begin to slightly curl and the bottom is golden. Flip and cook the other side for another 30 seconds to 1 minute. Repeat the process for the remaining batter.
Assembling the Savory Crêpes
Place a slice of ham onto the crêpe, sprinkle with gruyere cheese, and top with a small portion of cooked spinach. Fold the crêpe into quarters and allow the cheese to melt before serving.
Assembling the Sweet Crêpes
Spread a generous layer of Nutella on a crêpe and scatter the sliced strawberries on top. Fold the crêpe into your desired shape and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoying Your Parisian Duet Crêpes
Parisian Duet Crêpes can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Pair the savory crêpes with a light salad or enjoy the sweet variety as a delightful dessert. For an authentic Parisian experience, consider serving with a glass of French cider or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For precise cooking time, consider using a cooking timer to perfect each crêpe, ensuring that your meal reflects true French culinary finesse.