The ingredient to add to the batter for lighter (and easier to digest) French crêpes
You love French crêpes, but sometimes you think they're a bit heavy. Especially after eating two or three. They can be very tasty, but they can also be a little "compact", and you soon get the impression that there's no room left for dessert.
At times like these, you think you'd like lighter, airier, thinner crêpes, without losing the softness. Good news, it's possible. All it takes is one simple ingredient.
The ingredient to add to the batter is sparkling water, yes, yes ;)
Why does sparkling water make crêpes lighter?
Sparkling water contains gas. And this gas adds lightness to the batter.
The result is
- more fluid batter
- crêpes are thinner
- more supple
- they feel lighter to eat
It's not a magic wand, but you can really feel the difference, especially if you like your crêpes thin and light.
It's also a good option if you want a more digestible batter, or if you find that your crêpes are often a little too thick.
The little extra: the sparkling water also helps to make the batter more pleasant to spread in the pan.
How to use it in crêpe batter?
The idea is not to make the batter 100% sparkling water. Otherwise, you'll lose the softness of the milk.
The easiest way is to replace some of the milk with sparkling water.
For example, use
- half milk + half sparkling water
or
- 2/3 milk + 1/3 sparkling water
You adapt according to the result you like.
If you like very thin crêpes, you can use a little more sparkling water. If you like softer crêpes, keep the majority of the milk.
When should sparkling water be added?
This is very important.
The sparkling water is added at the end, once the batter is smooth.
You prepare your classic batter:
- flour
- eggs
- milk
- sugar and melted butter
Then add the sparkling water slowly while mixing.
If you add it too early and mix too hard, you lose the "light" effect more quickly.
Simple tip: add the sparkling water at the end and stir just until just combined.
How much sparkling water should I use?
It all depends on the quantity of batter, but to give you a simple idea:
For a classic batter with about 2 cups of flour, you can add about a glass of sparkling water.
If you find the batter too runny, that's okay. Let it rest for a while, and it will thicken slightly.
And if it becomes too fluid, you can always add a teaspoon of flour, mixing well.
Should I let the batter rest with the sparkling water?
Yes, but not necessarily for very long.
Resting is still useful, because it hydrates the flour and makes the batter smoother.
But if you're using sparkling water, you shouldn't wait for hours either, or the bubbles will lose their effect.
A 30-minute rest is perfect.
What if you don't have sparkling water?
You can also make lighter crêpes in other ways.
Here are a few simple options:
- Replace some of the milk with plain water
- Add a little beer (light effect too)
- Whisk egg whites for a thicker, airier version.
But if you're looking for the quickest and easiest way, sparkling water is still the best option.
If you want lighter crêpes, consider adding a little sparkling water to your batter ;)
It makes the texture lighter, finer and often more pleasant to eat.
Add it at the end, leave to rest for 30 minutes, and you'll notice the difference from the very first crêpe!
Adèle Peyches
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