It’s on the 17th February and all you need is some simple ingredients and a decent frying pan!
Pancake Day has it’s original roots in Christian tradition. It falls on the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent – a 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter. In medieval times, Christians were required to abstain from rich foods like eggs, butter, and sugar during Lent, so Shrove Tuesday became a final feast day to use up these ingredients before the fast began. Pancakes, being simple to make with these staple ingredients, became the perfect dish for the occasion.
The name “Shrove Tuesday” comes from the old English word “shriven,” which means to confess one’s sins. It was a day of repentance and preparation for the solemn season of Lent.
Pancake Day Traditions
Over the centuries, Shrove Tuesday evolved beyond its religious roots into a day of fun and festivity. One of the most famous traditions is the pancake race, which dates back to 1445 in the town of Olney, Buckinghamshire. According to legend, a woman was so engrossed in making pancakes that she lost track of time. Hearing the church bells ringing for the Shrove Tuesday service, she ran to the church still clutching her frying pan – thus, the pancake race was born! Today, similar races take place across the country, with participants flipping pancakes while dashing to the finish line.
Another tradition is the tossing of pancakes, where the challenge is to successfully flip a pancake in the air and catch it again in the pan. In some parts of the UK, towns (and homes!) still hold pancake-flipping contests.
Pancakes Through the Ages
While the traditional British pancake is thin and crêpe-like, modern variations have become increasingly popular. Some of us prefer the classic topping of lemon juice and sugar, while others experiment with chocolate, syrup, fruit, and savoury fillings. The rise of social media has also led to creative pancake art and extravagant pancake stacks appearing each year!
Though its religious significance has waned for many, Pancake Day remains a cherished part of British culture. It’s a fun, family-friendly event that brings people together over a shared love of food. Whether you’re racing with a frying pan or simply enjoying a plate of delicious pancakes, Shrove Tuesday is a tradition that continues to flip its way into the hearts of many.
Traditional UK Pancake Recipe (in case you’re a first timer!)
Ingredients:
(Makes about 8 pancakes)
- 125g plain flour
- 2 large eggs
- 300ml milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for frying)
Optional toppings:
- Lemon juice & caster sugar (classic!)
- Golden syrup
- Nutella & bananas
- Berries & whipped cream
Method:
Make the batter:
In a mixing bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. Make a well in the centre, crack in the eggs, and start whisking. Gradually add the milk while whisking until you have a smooth batter. Stir in the melted butter.
Rest the batter (optional but recommended):
Let the batter sit for about 30 minutes—this helps make the pancakes lighter and more elastic.
Heat the pan:
Place a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and brush with a little butter.
Cook the pancakes:
Pour in a thin layer of batter, tilting the pan to spread it evenly. Cook for about 1 minute, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds until golden.
Serve immediately:
Add your toppings, roll up, and enjoy!
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