Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, is a time-honored Christian tradition that offers a chance to indulge before 40 days of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter. Falling on February 21 this year, it’s famously linked to pancakes – a delicious way to use up rich ingredients like butter and eggs that were traditionally avoided during Lent.

In the United States, this day takes on a festive vibe as Mardi Gras, or “Fat Tuesday,” inviting celebrators to feast in style. Pancakes, with their simple yet versatile appeal, have become a staple of this day, with roots in Anglo-Saxon traditions when the “pancake bell” would summon people to confession, or to be “shriven” of their sins.

But the love for pancakes extends far beyond Shrove Tuesday or any single culture. Let’s explore how pancakes take shape around the world, reflecting the diversity of culinary traditions.

Global Pancake Wonders

Socca – France and Italy

This chickpea-flour delight, also called farinata in Italy, hails from the sunny regions of Provence and Liguria. Socca is a simple mix of chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and seasoning, cooked in wood-fired ovens. Gluten-free and irresistibly crispy, it’s a popular street food in cities like Nice, often served in paper cones with a sprinkle of black pepper.

Blinis – Russia

These thin pancakes, made from buckwheat flour and yeast, are a Russian staple. Traditionally served larger than their fine-dining counterparts, blinis are topped with indulgent choices like caviar or smoked salmon. During Maslenitsa or “Pancake Week,” Russians enjoy these treats daily in a celebration of abundance before Lent.

Hemp Protein Pancakes – Switzerland

Modern dietary trends meet tradition in these gluten-free pancakes crafted by Swiss Michelin-starred chef Sven Wassmer. Using hemp protein instead of flour, these pancakes are paired with toppings like bananas, almonds, and maple syrup, redefining healthy indulgence.

A World of Flavors

Fluffy Pancakes – Japan

Known as “hottokeki,” these cloud-like pancakes are Instagram sensations. Their souffle-like texture comes from whipped egg whites folded into the batter. Whether topped with berries, cream, or syrup, their towering fluffiness makes them irresistible (and photogenic).

Scallion Pancakes – China

These savory pancakes made from dough rather than batter are a crispy, flaky treat. Enhanced with scallions and sometimes pork fat in Shanghai-style versions, they are perfect for dipping in soy or chili sauces or enjoyed hot from the pan.

Crepes – France

Originating in Brittany, crepes are thin, delicate pancakes dating back to the 13th century. Served sweet with fruits or chocolate or savory with ham and cheese, they are an iconic symbol of French cuisine. Watching crepes being prepared is an art in itself.

Regional Favorites

Buttermilk Pancakes – USA

Thick, fluffy, and drizzled with maple syrup, American pancakes are a breakfast classic. Their tangy fluffiness comes from buttermilk, and they’re often served with crispy bacon for a sweet-and-salty contrast.

Masala Dosa – India

This South Indian specialty is a fermented rice-and-lentil pancake filled with spiced potatoes. Served with chutneys like coconut or tomato, it’s a beloved breakfast treat across India and a feast of flavors.

Latkes – Israel

These crispy potato pancakes are a highlight of Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, especially during Hanukkah. Traditionally topped with sour cream, applesauce, or lox, they are a perfect combination of crispy and savory.

Unique Takes on Pancakes

Pancakes with Peking Duck – China

Thin flour pancakes are the perfect wrappers for succulent slices of slow-cooked Peking duck, scallions, and hoisin sauce. These delicate pancakes enhance the rich flavors of this celebrated Chinese dish.

Injera – Ethiopia

This spongy, slightly sour flatbread made from teff flour doubles as a utensil for scooping up stews and sauces in Ethiopian cuisine. Fermented for a tangy taste, injera is as much about texture as it is flavor.

Dutch Baby – USA

Unlike traditional pancakes, Dutch babies are baked in the oven, resulting in a puffed, golden beauty. Often topped with butter, sugar, and lemon, they’re a brunch favorite in Washington State.

Whether you’re indulging in a stack of American buttermilk pancakes, savoring savory masala dosas, or enjoying the simple elegance of English lemon-and-sugar pancakes, there’s a version for every palate. Shrove Tuesday may come and go, but the global love for pancakes endures, connecting cultures one delicious bite at a time.

So, grab a skillet, whip up your batter, and celebrate pancakes – the universal comfort food.