Cardamom Pancakes with Orange Blossom Syrup

All-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and cardamom stirred together in a large bowl. Melted butter, milk and eggs whisked together in small bowl. Wet and dry ingredients whisked together.

White sugar, water, orange blossom water, and fresh lemon juice simmered in saucepan to thicken. Pancake batter poured onto hot griddle and cooked golden brown on both sides. Pancakes served with warm orange blossom syrup and garnished with pistachio pieces.

Ingredients 

• 1 cup Milk
• 1-1/2 cups Flour
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1/2 cup Butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons Sugar
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 Cardamom Pod, pounded should yield a generous pinch

Syrup:

• 1/2 cup Water
• 1 cup Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
• 1 tablespoon Orange Blossom
• Water (found in any Middle Eastern specialty store)
• 1/4 cup Pistachio Pieces

Preparation:

1. Combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and cardamom in a large bowl.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Whisk together the butter, milk and eggs in a separate bowl.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Set the mixture to the side for 15 minutes.
6. Place a cast iron skillet over a medium flame.
7. Add the sugar, water, orange blossom water, and lemon juice.
8. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer stirring often for approximately 20 minutes or until the sauce begins to thicken.
9. Remove the skillet from the flame and set to the side.
10. Place another heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat and spread lightly with butter.
11. Pour 1/2 cup of batter per pancake and cook to golden brown on both sides.
12. Serve with butter, orange blossom syrup and sprinkle with pistachios.
13. Serve and enjoy.

Pancake Making Tips – Heart-Healthy Pancakes

• To make heart-healthy pancakes, substitute all-purpose flour with healthier choices.
• Use whole-wheat flour, soy flour or corn meal and add a little ground flaxseed and wheat germ to increase the nutritional value.
• Replace the oil or butter with equal amounts of applesauce to decrease the fat content in the pancakes.