Qatayef - Middle Eastern Semolina Pancakes (Step by Step)

Step 1

Combine the yeast, warm water, and sugar. Stir. Let set on counter for a few minutes until it becomes foamy.

Step 2

Add the rest of the ingredients and whisk to combine.

Step 3

Cover with plastic and let rest on counter until bubbly. This can take 1-2 hours depending on how warm your kitchen is.

Step 4

After batter is bubbly, heat an electric griddle to 350 degrees F or a nonstick or well seasoned cast iron skillet to medium.

Step 5

Pour batter by 1/4 cupfuls into neat 4 inch circles onto the griddle. Use your ladle or bottom of measuring cup to lightly make a swirling motion to help spread the batter to 4 inches. You don't want the pancake to be too thick or it will be difficult to fill.

Step 6

The pancakes will begin to form tiny bubbles. When the surface is covered with bubbles and no longer shiny and the bottoms are a pale golden, remove the pancake from the griddle and place on a plate. Do not flip them over. You will not be cooking the other side of the pancake.

Step 7

Keep the pancakes covered with a kitchen towel while you finish cooking the rest. Stack the pancakes on the plate with a sheet of waxed paper between them.

Step 8

When you have finished and they have cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap so they don't dry out. If they dry out they will not close when you fill them.