Broccoli Pancakes | Recipes | Dr. Weil's Healthy Kitchen (2024)

FAQs

What is the healthiest way to eat pancakes? ›

First, you can make them with whole grains, like whole-wheat flour, which will add heart-healthy filling fiber. You can also add healthy toppings, like yogurt, nuts and fruit, to boost protein, vitamins and fiber to transform pancakes into a nutritious breakfast that will help you stay full through the morning.

However, it does not mean that pancakes are off-limits for those wanting to shed some pounds. In order to effectively use pancakes in a weight loss plan, and to get the most out of them, it's important to make sure that you are consuming healthy pancakes made with minimal processed ingredients and healthier sugars.

Pancakes or waffles

Despite their tasty profile, these comfort foods are often made with refined white flour and topped with butter and syrup, which is essentially pure sugar. This means that pancakes and waffles are high in calories, fat, and sugar, yet lacking in protein and fiber.

To make healthy pancakes, use whole-wheat or another whole-grain (cornmeal, oats or buckwheat) flour instead. Whole-wheat flour has 16 grams of fiber per cup compared to 3 grams of fiber in white flour.

This swap is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making it a nutritious topping for pancakes. In moderation, pure maple syrup is a better option than pancake syrups filled with high fructose corn syrup.

Restaurants use better quality ingredients

However, along with that ease, you may be taking a hit in the overall taste department. Restaurants tend to use real, farm-fresh eggs and real milk when making their pancakes, which as you might guess, adds to a richer, higher-quality eating experience.

Most traditional pancake recipes call for white flour, which has a neutral flavor but doesn't offer much in the way of nutrition. To make healthy pancakes, use whole-wheat or another whole-grain (cornmeal, oats or buckwheat) flour instead.

First, you can make them with whole grains like whole-wheat flour, which will add heart-healthy filling fiber. You can also add extra-healthy toppings, like fruit to boost vitamins and fiber- and protein-packed nuts to transform them into a nutritious breakfast that will help you stay full through the morning.

Simmering berries or chopped fruit creates a syrupy texture without added sugars. This alternative is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, and the natural sweetness satisfies cravings healthily. Chia seeds plump up when mixed with pureed fruit, creating a jam-like consistency.

Are pancakes better with milk instead of water? ›

Pancake lovers' biggest complaint when adding water instead of milk is that the flavor seems to change. Pancakes aren't as richly flavored with water. There are a few ways to improve your batter when you've used water, including: Add extra butter.