Crepes are a delicious thin French pancake that can be served either savory or sweet. Their delicate texture makes them ideal for rolling or folding around a variety of tasty fillings. But do crepes actually need to be folded or rolled to be considered authentic? Let’s take a closer look at the origins, traditions, and no-fold alternatives for serving crepes.
The History of Crepes
Crepes originated in the Brittany region of northwestern France, where they were a staple peasant food. The word “crepe” comes from the French word “crêpe” meaning “pancake.” Crepes were an inexpensive way to use simple ingredients like flour, eggs, milk, and butter to create a filling meal. Traditionally, crepes were folded or rolled around savory fillings like cheese, meat, and vegetables. This style of folded crepe is still seen in classics like the savory buckwheat crepe called the galette.
Over time, crepes developed into a beloved staple across all of France. Fillings expanded from savory to sweet as fruit, chocolate, custard, and other dessert ingredients were encased in the delicate pancakes. Sweet crepes were often carefully folded into triangular shapes for presentation.
As crepes have spread in popularity around the world, the folding tradition has been continued. But do crepes really need to be folded in order to be authentic?
Are Folded Crepes Required?
While crepes have traditionally been folded, there are no crepe police who will inspect your unfolded pancakes. Here are some key points on the folding tradition:
- Folding allows you to encase fillings so they don’t spill out. This prevents a mess and contains flavors.
- A triangular folded shape is iconic for sweet dessert crepes. It creates an elegant presentation.
- Folded crepes are easier to eat with your hands than flat unfolded ones.
- However, folding crepes neatly takes practice. It can be challenging for beginners.
- There are no rules saying crepes MUST be folded. It’s simply traditional.
So feel free to skip folding your crepes if you prefer. A crepe served flat with topping is still delicious. The choice comes down to personal preference and presentation.
How to Fold Crepes
If you want to uphold tradition with perfectly folded crepes, it just takes a little technique. Here are some tips:
- Fold crepes while they’re still warm and pliable.
- Use a thin spatula to help lift and fold the crepe.
- For sweet crepes, fold opposite sides over to form a triangle.
- For savory galettes, fold the sides towards the middle then fold into a quarter.
- Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry about tears or imperfections.
Check out this quick video showing the technique for folding sweet crepes into triangles:
[Embed video tutorial on folding crepes]
With a little practice, you’ll be an expert crepe folder in no time. But don’t worry if you prefer to simply stack your crepes flat. The taste will be the same!
Serving Ideas Without Folding
If you want to skip the folding step, here are some tasty ways to serve flat crepes:
- Stack crepes between layers of fruit and whipped cream for a napoleon-style dessert.
- Top crepes with ice cream and chocolate sauce for an ice cream sundae twist.
- Layer crepes with mascarpone cheese, prosciutto, and tomato for an Italian-inspired appetizer.
- Fan crepes out overlapping on a plate and drizzle with lemon and powdered sugar.
- Spread crepes with Nutella and bananas for a kid-friendly treat.
You have permission to unleash your creativity and make crepes your own way. There are no rules set in stone. Feel free to get inventive with both sweet and savory unfolded crepe options.
Flat Crepe Ideas in Chart Form
Here is an overview of ideas for serving crepes unfolded in a handy table:
Sweet Crepes | Savory Crepes |
---|---|
Fresh berries and whipped cream | Tomato, pesto, and mozzarella |
Lemon curd and blueberries | Smoked salmon, dill, and cream cheese |
Ice cream sundae style | Ratatouille vegetables |
Sliced peaches and Greek yogurt | Chicken, avocado, and tomato |
Chocolate hazelnut spread | Ham, cheese, and spinach |
Tips for Stacking Flat Crepes
If you want to neatly stack your unfolded crepes, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t overfill crepes, or stacking will be tricky.
- Chill crepes for 20-30 minutes before stacking to set any fillings.
- Slide a spatula under each crepe to transfer it.
- Use parchment paper between each crepe so they don’t stick.
- Keep stacked crepes refrigerated until ready to serve.
With practice, you’ll be able to assemble beautiful flat crepe stacks for serving. But don’t worry about perfection. However you serve them, crepes always taste delightful.
Crepe Folding: FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about the tradition of folding crepes:
Why are savory crepes called galettes?
In France, savory buckwheat flour crepes are known as galettes in the Brittany region where they originated. The name distinguished them from sweet white flour crepes.
What kinds of fillings work best in crepes?
Soft, moist fillings work best so crepes can be rolled without cracking. Whipped cream, cheese spreads, sauteed vegetables, and minced meat are great options.
What tools help fold crepes?
A thin flexible spatula and butter knife can help lift and fold crepes neatly. A pastry brush can help seal edges with egg wash or water.
Should you fold crepes hot or cold?
Fold crepes while still warm so they are pliable but have cooled enough to handle. Folding hot crepes can cause tears.
How many crepes does a basic recipe yield?
One batch of basic crepe batter will yield approximately 15-20 crepes depending on the size.
The Verdict on Folded vs Unfolded Crepes
While folded crepes are traditional, especially for sweet dessert versions, there is no requirement that crepes must be folded. Modern chefs and home cooks are increasingly serving crepes unfolded with creative toppings. Here are some final pros for each style:
Benefits of Folded Crepes:
- Traditional and iconic presentation
- Encases fillings neatly
- Easier to eat by hand
- Fun technique when you get the hang of folding
Benefits of Unfolded Crepes:
- Simpler preparation with no folding skills required
- Allows for open-faced topping creativity
- Can be made ahead and stacked for serving convenience
- No worries about tearing delicate crepes when folding
As you can see, both folded and flat crepes have their perks. We recommend trying both styles to see which you prefer! The most important thing is enjoying these thin pancakes in whichever format you fancy.
Conclusion
Crepes are a flexible food tradition that can handle modern interpretation. While folding crepes is customary, especially for sweet dessert fillings, there are no crepe police who will inspect your pancakes. Feel free to fold crepes neatly into triangles or cans for a traditional presentation. But don’t be afraid to lay crepes flat and top them with creative ingredients. Formal folding is merely a technique, not a requirement. No matter how you serve them, crepes make for a delightful dining experience. The only real necessity is enjoying their delicate flavor in your own style.