Crêpes are a staple of French cuisine. They are suitable for every occasion, particularly at the beginning of February during Candlemas. In this version, we have added a fruity twist with acai, a superfood with multiple benefits.
In this article, we will cover:
- The origins of this French tradition
- The essential acai crêpe recipe
- Why this superfood is a real asset in this recipe
Why do we eat crêpes at Candlemas?
The tradition of enjoying crêpes at Candlemas dates back several centuries and has its origins in symbolic beliefs and practices.
A pagan origin
Candlemas, celebrated every year on February 2, takes its name from the Latin word "candela" meaning candle. Originally, this pagan festival marked the end of winter and the return of fine weather. The lit candles then symbolized light and prosperity.
With Christianity, Candlemas became a religious celebration commemorating the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple. On this occasion, it was customary to bless candles to ensure happiness and prosperity.
Crêpes, a symbol of prosperity
At the time, the round shape of crêpes was selected to evoke the sun, heralding spring and the coming harvests. They also symbolize abundance and generosity, essential notions during this time of year.
Popular traditions surrounding crêpes
According to an old superstition, flipping a crêpe while holding a gold coin in the other hand was supposed to ensure wealth and happiness for the coming year. This tradition reflects the symbolic importance of crêpes in French households.
Our acai crêpe recipe
Adding acai to this recipe gives this classic a unique twist. Acai provides a beautiful purple color, as well as nutritional benefits that enhance this traditional dessert.
Ingredients needed
For the crêpe batter:
- 250 g wheat flour
- 4 fresh eggs
- 450 ml plant-based drink. We recommend Yofi's oat and chickpea drink!
- 100 ml of previously thawed Terraçaí by Nossa! acai (equivalent to one sachet).
- 2 tbsp sugar
- A drizzle of olive oil
For the spread:
- A bar of white chocolate
- 50 ml of acai (thawed)
Toppings:
- Frozen or fresh blueberries (in season, from July to September)
Preparation steps
Preparing the crêpe batter:
- Mix the flour and sugar in a large bowl.
- Make a well in the center, then add the eggs and olive oil.
- Gradually incorporate the milk while whisking to prevent lumps.
- Add acai for a vibrant color and fruity flavor.
- Let the batter rest for 30 minutes for even softer crêpes.
Cooking the crêpes:
- Heat a lightly oiled pan.
- Pour in a ladleful of batter, spread it evenly, and cook until the crêpe lifts away easily.
- Flip it over to brown the other side.
- Set the cooked crêpes aside on a plate under a sheet of aluminum foil to keep them warm.
Preparing the spread:
- Melt a bar of white chocolate in a bain-marie.
- Divide the melted chocolate between two bowls. Add 50 ml of acai to one of the bowls and mix well.
Serving:
- Spread the white chocolate-acai spread over half of a crêpe.
- Fold the crêpe in half and drizzle it with plain white chocolate.
- Add a few thawed blueberries for a refreshing touch.
- Serve immediately and enjoy while still hot.
Why add acai to your crêpes?
Acai can transform a classic recipe into an original and nutritious dessert. This ingredient gives your crêpes a natural purple hue, adding a visual touch that draws attention. It's a simple way to make your preparations more appealing.
Rich in antioxidants, acai helps protect the body's cells and support overall health. It also contains fiber, which promotes balanced digestion, and essential fatty acids that support the cardiovascular system.
With its notes of red berries and cocoa, acai adds a subtle fruity touch to your crêpes. This delicate flavor pairs well with ingredients such as white chocolate and fresh fruit.
By adding acai to this recipe, your dish is both healthy and delicious, while acai remains easy to incorporate into your usual preparations.