Thursday, August 30, 2012

Typical Pancakes Versus Pancakes from Scratch



Most of us really love pancakes because of the fulfilling sensation they give our tummies and tongues. I, the blogger, try my very best to give readers healthy pancake recipes and choices. Somehow I discourage people from eating the typical pancakes made from instant pancake mix and the basic recipe.

Why, because of two reasons. First, I love pancakes but I value my health and other people’s health as well. Secondly, pancakes especially those made from the basic recipe and those coming from pancake mixes have their disadvantages to our health. In this post, I’m going to show you the cons or disadvantages of basic pancakes as well as the advantages of making pancakes from scratch, particularly from healthy recipes. After reading, you will see the value of the healthy pancake recipes mentioned in the previous posts.

The Cons of Making Pancakes from Basic Recipes.

Basic pancakes are made with processed white flour that’s low in fiber, less filling and may come with unhealthy synthetic substances. Second, these pancakes are not significantly high in protein particularly those made from instant pancake mix. Protein is one of the essential nutrients that we need to start the day healthy and to make us energetic for longer periods of time. Maple syrup which is usually added as pancake topping is high in sugar but low in calories. It can’t provide us with enough energy so it’s another not so useful ingredient.

Typical pancakes are also high in fat and half of these fats are saturated, which are unhealthy. A 3.5 oz serving of pancakes contains 8.8 grams of fat and 3.9 g saturated fats. In a day, experts suggest that we must avoid consuming beyond 15 g of saturated fat. Otherwise, our risks to developing cardiovascular problems increase.

You may disagree with me and insist that you really feel full and energetic after eating typical pancakes. Think twice, because this filling sensation usually comes from sugars with empty calories. After a few hours, you’ll be hungry again and wasted.
So if I were you, don’t stick to instant pancake mix or the basic pancake recipe, always modify the recipe by substituting healthy ingredients and cutting down some stuff to make your pancakes at least, less unhealthy.

The Pros of Making Pancakes from Scratch.

Don’t get totally disappointed. The secret to healthy pancakes is making them from scratch based on the basic pancake recipe. This means that we could easily modify and experiment the basic recipe anytime we want and turn it into a healthy recipe. Avoid using pure white flour in making your pancakes. 

Reduce it as much as possible and replace with some whole grains such as whole wheat, rice, corn, quinoa flours and even oats. These can give your pancakes good texture and will also make them high in protein and fiber. Adding fruits and vegetables to the pancake batter is another way to boost the vitamin and mineral component of your pancakes. 

You may shred or mash any fruit or vegetable you like before incorporating into the pancake batter. Moreover, using vegetable oil instead of butter will also make your pancakes healthy. Skimmed milk also adds protein. 

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