Russian Crepes - Blini

Russian crepes or blintzes (in Russian "blini") is a traditional and a very popular dish in Russia and Ukraine. Our family is no different here as we we love the crepes! The popularity of Russian crepes can be compared to North American pancakes - you can eat them sweet, with cheese and fruits for breakfast or afternoon tea, savory with meat or fish, or as a fancy appetizer with caviar. We prepare it with different stuffings and it's one of the most popular dishes with my husband and the kids. They literally can eat them every day ...my daughter's favourite is with Nutella and strawberries. Make a batch of crepes and try them with different fillings for a gourmet delicious breakfast or an original lunch! They might seem a bit difficult the first time around, but once you’ve tried it once or twice, they are fast and easy to make.

Makes about 25 crepes?

Ingredients

3 1/4 cup milk
2 eggs
2 1/4 cup flour
1 tbsp. Sugar
3 tbsp. vegetable oil

Directions

In a bowl beat eggs and sugar. Stir with a fork or whisk until smooth (do not need to whip).
Pour milk and mix.
Gradually add flour, whisking until combined. The consistency of the dough should be like a cream. If you still have lumps, strain the dough into a large enough bowl over a sieve. The dough should turn lump free liquid and easy pouring.
Add 2 tbsp. vegetable oil to the dough and mix to combine.
Place 9’ skillet on the heat and grease it with a bit of oil. It should be done only before the first crepe.  
Pour a bit less than 1/4 cup butter to a very hot pan and quickly spread the dough over the entire surface with a paper thin layer by slightly rotating a pan.
When the edges of the dough start to dry and the middle is bubbly - run a rubber spatula around to loosen the edges. Carefully pick under the crepe and if it’s golden brown, gently flip.
Fry the other side for about 2 minutes until it becomes golden brown as well. With a spatula, remove the crepe from the pan and place it on the plate.
Repeat the process with the rest of the dough, avoiding the pan greasing.

Don’t worry if your first crepe looks far from perfect. Just discard this first “mess” of a crepe and continue.
The crepes best served warm with so many different fillings and garnishings. They can be served as savory – stuffed with meat, mushrooms, or fish filling. You can serve them also sweet as a dessert, with cheese, fruits, and berries. You can pour honey, jam, melted chocolate, or maple syrup over them. Amazingly yummy!
Kids can particularly enjoy filling their crepes with fruits and berries and decorating them with chocolate. It’s such a versatile dish and everybody can find their favourite combination.

Experiment and have fun!