From the French word “souffler” that means “to blow,” “to breathe” or “to puff,” souffle has become a global trend and is still gaining popularity–particularly Japan’s souffle pancakes.
The egg-based food is renowned by its puffy appearance that is due to egg whites that have been beaten into a soft peak. It’s usually served with bechamel or cream sauce (white sauce made of flour, butter and milk) or cream patissiere (custard) or a puree (usually made of fruit).
Souffle, in addition to being a dessert it also has savory variations such as potato souffle or crab souffle. Souffle may include vegetables, cheese, and herbs as well as a selection of meats , including pork as well as poultry and seafood.
The origins of souffle can be traced back to Hawaii in 1974 , when Jan as well as Jerry Fukunaga established their diner Eggs N’ Things (which was expanded in Tokyo by the year 2010 as well and began the Japanese preference for American-style pancakes) The souffle pancakes were a hit for some time before becoming an extremely sought-after desserts in the world today.
We’ve seen Flipper’s Japanese souffle pancake café that has taken across New York City. Fuwa Fuwa Cafe (whose name originates of the Japanese word meaning fluffy) also made it to London, Toronto, and other cities across the US. A brunch eatery that is open all day located in Los Angeles, Souffle’s, makes pancakes that might not be at the same height as other pancakes however they make up for the difference in height by their rich and delicious textures.
The Philippines, Japanese chains Gram Cafe, Motto Motto, and Tokyo Milk Cheese Factory as in Hong Kong’s am pm and Taipei’s Puffy’s and our local Pancake House brought their own version of these pancakes to local markets.
Souffle pancakes are different from the flat pancakes we create. Their structure and flexibility (in regards to being able to mix with other ingredients to enhance the flavor) make this trend an Instagram success. The crowds line up to taste (and maybe, even take pictures) of this 2-inch-high Japanese pancake.
The buzz surrounding the new variation of the breakfast staple doesn’t appear to be ending in spite of it receiving attention for a long time already. There’s no sign of it slipping because social media is causing the masses to get interested in souffle pancakes. Its popularity as the latest food trend is just beginning.