Saturday, October 13, 2007

Autumn pancakes


I've been really in the mood for fall foods since I got back from upstate NY, where its already very pretty and fall-like. Luckily, when I woke up today it was crisp and chilly, so I had the perfect recipe in mind!

Serves four, or two really hungry people.
You will need:
1 pear
1 Apple (I used a pink lady)
1/2 stick of butter
2 tbs light brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Handful of Walnuts
Instant pancake mix (I used Aunt Jemima) that makes 10-12 pancakes
Sour cream (optional)

1. First make the apple pear mixture. Cut the apple and pear into similar sized slices by cutting off the sides of the fruit, laying it flat on the cut side, and slicing lengthwise. Meanwhile, in a small pan heat up half a stick of butter until its halfway melted, then begin stirring in the brown sugar. When the brown sugar and butter have blended, toss in the apples and pears and cook, stirring occasionally, at medium. (You might have too many fruit slices- save them for garnish or to munch on while makig the pancakes.) When they appear glossy and softer (5-8 min.), sprinkle cinnamon to taste over them and lower the heat to low. (Might want to taste test to make sure they are cooked through.)
2. Next, make the pancakes the way your package instructs.
3. Now, put the two together! Serve two pancakes per plate and scoop some of the apples and pears, drizzle a little of the pan sauce, and sprinkle some raw walnuts. Add a dollop of sour cream if desired. (I desired it, and it was great.) Now drink some coffee, stare out the window, and listen to some Band of Horses or Kings of Leon!

(Walnuts are in season right now and SO good for you! They contain omega 3 fatty acids which help your skin and hair stay pretty, and L Argonine which some research suggests can up your sex drive! Who knew?)