Allow the batter to rise
The yeast needs time to work. Without the rising time, the blini will be less airy.
Russian Recipe
Blini
These blini use a yeast-raised batter made with buckwheat and wheat flour. After rising, the small pancakes are fried over medium heat until golden, fluffy inside and lightly browned outside.
Total time
1 hr 15 min
Calories
390 kcal
Servings
4 servings
Difficulty
Medium
Why this recipe works
Buckwheat blini with a light yeast batter
Unlike quick pancakes, blini contain yeast and need time to rise. Buckwheat flour provides their characteristic nutty flavour, while milk and eggs keep the batter tender. Cook them over medium heat so they are done in the centre before the outside becomes too dark.
Breakfast
Russian Recipes
Recipe
Blini
Blini are small yeast-raised pancakes made with buckwheat flour, milk, eggs and butter. They are light and fluffy and can be served with sour cream, dill and salmon or with jam for a sweet version.
Ingredients
4 servings
Method
-
1
Prepare the preferment
Whisk together the yeast, sugar and lukewarm milk. Add both flours and mix until the batter is smooth.
-
2
Leave the batter to rise
Cover the batter and leave it to rise for 45 minutes. Stir in the egg yolks, melted butter and salt.
-
3
Fold in the beaten egg whites
Whisk the egg whites to stiff peaks, then fold them gently into the batter to keep the blini light.
-
4
Fry in batches
Heat a lightly greased frying pan over medium heat. Fry the blini in batches for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.
-
5
Add the toppings
Serve warm with sour cream, dill and your choice of savoury or sweet toppings.
Kitchen know-how
Tips for Blini
Use medium heat
High heat browns the outside too quickly. Medium heat cooks the blini evenly.
Keep warm
Loosely cover cooked blini or keep them in a low oven so they remain soft.
Variations
How to adapt this recipe
Sour cream, dill, smoked salmon, trout or a caviar alternative are classic savoury toppings for blini.
Serve blini with jam, honey, berries or sweetened quark for breakfast or dessert.
Nutrition per serving
390kcal
46.0 gCarbohydrates
13.0 gProtein
17.0 gFat
Values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients, brands, portion size and preparation method used.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ about Blini
The yeast aerates the batter and gives the blini their soft, fluffy texture.
Yes, although buckwheat provides the characteristic nutty flavour. Blini made only with wheat flour taste milder.
Cover the cooked blini loosely or keep them in a low oven until serving.
For savoury blini, use sour cream, dill, smoked salmon or a caviar alternative. Honey, berries and jam work well for a sweet version.
Keep cooking