A blini refers to small (2-4 inches in diameter) savory pancakes made with leavened batter. Blinis sometimes include grated potatoes, apples or grapes.

The term blini comes from Russian blin itself derived from Old Slavic mlin, meaning “to grind”. Blini were considered by early East Slavic people in pre-Christian times to be a symbol of the sun, due to their round form. They were traditionally prepared at the end of winter to honor the rebirth of the new sun. This pagan tradition taken up by the Orthodox Church is still celebrated today.

Easy and quick to cook, this savourous small pancakes can beserved with butter, cheese, jam, tarama, caviar and other garnishes.

Difficulty level : low

Prep time : 15 min

Rest time : 3 h 30 min

Cook time : 5 min

Total time : 20 min + 3 h 30 min (rest)

Yield : 6 servings

2 cups all purpose flour

3 eggs (medium size)

1.75 cups milk, at room temperature

1 tsp baking powder

4 tbsp butter

1.5 tsp salt

Steps :

• In a bowl combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
• Whisk milk, eggs, and 2 tbsp butter together in a separate bowl.
• Mix into the flour mixture until batter is fully combined.
• Heat 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
• Drop batter, 1 tsp at a time, onto the heated skillet.
• Cook until bubbles form, 1.5 to 2 min.
• Flip and continue cooking until brown, about 1 min more.
• Lay on plate lined with a paper towel.
• Repeat with the remaining batter.
• Let cool and serve.
• Enjoy !