Vegan Spelt Pancakes Recipe with Banana and Dairy-Free Skyr

It’s time for pancakes again! We’ve already shared some pancake recipes in previous posts (you can check them out here, and here. While it might seem challenging to make pancakes without milk and eggs, the recipe below might just convince you to give it a try! Not only is this a more environmentally friendly option, but it’s also cholesterol-free. These pancakes are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert – and we even had them for dinner! Give them a go and surprise your loved ones with a completely plant-based version of this classic dish.

For the base, we used whole grain spelt flour, which is rich in fiber and other essential nutrients. It also adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a sweet filling of vegan yogurt and banana. We opted not to add any sugar, as the banana provided enough sweetness. For best results, use ripe bananas, as they are naturally sweeter. If you’d like a bit more flavor, feel free to add cinnamon or cocoa powder.

About Spelt Flour

Spelt is an ancient variety of wheat, historically important as far back as the Bronze Age. In recent years, it’s become more popular, especially among those who prioritize healthy eating. Spelt flour is a great source of fiber, protein, and minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. These spelt pancakes are a fantastic choice for a balanced meal that will give you lasting energy. However, spelt contains gluten, so it’s unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

What is Skyr?

Skyr is a traditional Icelandic dairy product, similar in texture to thick yogurt but technically classified as cheese. It’s known for being high in protein and low in fat. Even though skyr is not part of this recipe, we bring it up to note the many nutritious dairy alternatives that are emerging.

Vegan Alternatives

There is now a growing variety of vegan versions of classic ingredients. Vegan yogurts, for example, are typically made through fermentation, though most major producers pasteurize their products, much like traditional dairy yogurt. In specialty stores, you can find unpasteurized versions or even purchase fermentation cultures to make your own vegan yogurt or cheese spread at home.

Recipe, preparation, and cost

1. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the plant-based milk and mix well until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Do not add oil to the batter itself; it is only used for greasing the pan.
2. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with sunflower oil. Use a ladle to pour a portion of the batter into the pan, and cook each pancake for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
3. Prepare the Filling: Mash the banana with a fork until smooth, and mix it with the vegan yogurt. Spread the filling over each pancake and roll them up or fold them as you like.
4. Serve and Enjoy! The pancakes are delicious as is, but you can enhance them with additional toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.

The total cost of this dinner for four was just 2.81 EUR, or approximately 0.70 EUR per person. This makes it a budget-friendly, healthy, and environmentally conscious meal option.

Nutritional value

With two pancakes per person, this meal provides about 25% of the daily calorie requirement. The pancakes are high in proteins, fiber, and important minerals like magnesium and potassium. However, the dish is lower in vitamins A, C, and B, which can be supplemented by adding fresh vegetables or fruit to the meal. You can also experiment with different fillings to achieve a more well-rounded nutrient profile.

If you have questions about today’s lunch (or ideas for future lunches) then feel free to write to us at hungry.pumpkin.blog@gmail.com and we will get back to you!

Have a great weekend!

-The Hungry Pumpkin Team