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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Lifestyle
Paige Holland

Apparently this is the 'perfect' pancake - but do you agree?

Shrove Tuesday - also known as Pancake Day -  officially marks the start of Lent, but for most of us it's simply 'eat as many pancakes as possible' day.

But, making the perfect pancake comes down to practise and precision.

A new survey of 2,000 Brits claims to have found the 'perfect' pancake - including size, colour and topping.

But as we all know, fillings can be a controversial topping with many weird and wonderful alternatives to lemon and sugar flying about.

So, do you agree that this is the best way to eat one?

Let's start with the size. According to the survey, the perfect pancake should be 3.93 millimetres thick, 16.07 centimetres in diameter and a beautiful 'golden brown' colour - best get your rulers out.

The perfect pancake should be 3.93 mm thick, 16.07 cm in diameter and a golden brown colour (Getty)

And, whilst thinner crepes are Brits go-to, an increasing 56 per cent of pancake lovers prefer the thicker American style.

Supposedly, 85 per cent of Brits have the necessary pancake ingredients in their cupboard prior to the big day, and 64 percent make them from scratch.

Whereas, one in five opt for the shop bought alternatives.

Numerous supermarkets offer pre-made pancake mix all year long, and it's as simple as adding water.

On average, Brits making enough batter for three pancakes per sitting, leaving just one spare per person per household - always handy to have a back-up in case the flipping goes wrong.

One in five Brits opt for ready-made pancake mix from the supermarket instead of making their own batter (Dorling Kindersley)

According to a survey commissioned by Mylène Denicolaï, from Maple from Canada: "The noble pancake has become a favourite for all every February when Shrove Tuesday arrives.

"It’s most definitely a way to get the whole family involved in a timeless activity - and who doesn’t love attempting to perfectly land a pancake in the pan?

She continues: "Pancake Day also sparks the classic ‘sweet or savoury’ debate, which draws passionate opinion from opposing sides."

Supposedly, 65 per cent prefer to douse their pancakes in sugary treats over savory toppings.

Lemon and sugar came out as the best popular toppings, with maple syrup, chocolate spread and ice cream close behind.

Golden syrup, loads of sugar and pancakes. (Getty Images)

Slightly more unusual toppings including salty bacon in 11th place, cheddar cheese in 18th and Greek yogurt in final place.

Mylène added: “Pancake Day has been celebrated in Britain for centuries but in Canada, we enjoy pancakes all year round, whether it's for breakfast, brunch or a dessert.

"We were delighted to learn that maple syrup is one of Britain’s favourite pancake toppings."

Find the list of ingredients and method below for the perfect pancake.

Mylène Denicolaï said: "Who doesn't love attempting to perfectly land a pancake in the pan?" (StockFood)

Ingredients (makes 12)

  • 100g plain flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 300ml milk
  • 1 tbsp sunflower or vegetable oil plus a little more for frying

  • Pinch of salt

  • Plus any toppings

Method

  1. Add all of the ingredients into a large bowl and whisk until smooth

  2. If you have time, leave the batter to rest for 30 minutes - feel free to skip this step if you can't wait

  3. Set a medium sized frying pan - or crepe pan if you have one - over a medium heat and wipe a little oil over the surface

  4. When the pan is hot, pour in some of your batter, and cook for one minute each side or until they're golden brown

  5. Then serve with your favourite toppings

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