Crepes

Eating crepes is a breeze. But actually making them can intimidate the uninitiated. Never fear: Lou Siebert Pappas, author of Crepes: Sweet and Savory Recipes for the Home Cook, shares her tips for making the perfect crepe.

Foodies may declare crêpes "in" or "out," but they are a welcome treat for most of us. Lou Seibert Pappas explains that "crêpe" is the French word for pancake, and that the dish originated in Brittany, in northwestern France. Until about 100 years ago, all crêpes were made from buckwheat flour. Pappas departs from that tradition by providing 15 recipes for different kinds of crêpes. Eleven are savory, including ones made with whole wheat flour, with minced herbs, and with chickpea flour, while four are sweetened to use in making desserts. Photos accompanying Pappas's meticulous directions illustrate how to turn out light, delicate crêpes and how to fold them around fillings in 11 ways. She also explains what to do about problems such as small holes or cracking edges.

Crêpes also offers novel ways of serving the pancakes, such as the Party Stack with Pesto Fillings; Salad Basket Crêpes with Grapes, Blue Cheese, and Hazelnuts; and Chicken, Corn, and Red Pepper Crêpes. In addition, you will find Wild Mushroom Crêpes and other classics. Cannelloni and Cheese Blintzes are reminders that crêpes are more than a French favorite.