Archive for the 'International Waffles' Category

15th Jan 2007

Waffle Makers – What Waffles Can You Bake?

A waffle is a batter cake cooked between two hot plates that are called a waffle maker. It has a distinctive grid-like appearance, the result of raised partitions on the waffle makers hot plates. Different batters, different techniques and different textures result in varying types of waffles and tastes.

A waffle is supposed to be light and airy; crunchy on the outside, soft in the middle. They are typically made from a batter that consists of flour, water, baking powder, oil  and eggs but this is the only basic ingredients and these can vary .

Waffles can trace their history back to the Middle Ages. Wafers were popular thin, crisp cakes that were cooked on an iron made from two metal plates hinged together and place over a fire. These wafers were sold by vendors on the street known as waferers. Waffles were brought to the US by pilgrims in 1620 who brought the cooking technique from Holland.

One of the most famous types of waffles that waffle makers can bake are a Brussels or Belgian waffle. This is made from yeast-leavened batter and is typically lighter, thicker and more crisp than standard waffles. They also have larger pockets and is often served hot by venders on the street.

American waffles are – as the name suggests – popular in the United States of American. Unlike the Belgian waffle it is made from baking powder not yeast. They are a popular breakfast food often served with butter or a syrup. More savory waffles are also made.

In Hong Kong, waffles are called a ‘grid cake’ are can be found on the street. They are larger and more round than the standard waffle, and are eaten warm on the street as a snack.

From the Netherlands dating back to the 18th century, stroopwafels are thin waffles filled with syrup. The waffle is cut in half and the filling glues the two pieces together.

As you can see, waffle makers enable you to create a wide range of different waffles. When looking for a new maker be sure you check out the model you are buying to ensure that it is able to bake the type of waffle you are after. With a little bit of research, creativity and work you will be able to produce waffles originating from all parts of the world in no time at all.

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