1.
What date is Pancake Day typically celebrated?
Correct Answer
D. The date changes each year
Explanation
Pancake Day, also known as Shrove Tuesday or Mardi Gras, falls on the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. Since Easter is determined by the lunar cycle, Ash Wednesday's date also changes, and consequently, so does Pancake Day. It can land anywhere between February 3rd and March 9th.
2.
When is Pancake Day 2024?
Correct Answer
A. February 13
Explanation
Pancake Day 2024 will fall on February 23. The celebration of this moveable feast is determined by Easter. In 2025 the feast will fall on March 4.
3.
Pancake Day is celebrated a day before which holy day?
Correct Answer
B. Ash Wednesday
Explanation
Pancake Day is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday, which is the first day of Lent, observed in many Christian countries through participating in confession and absolution.
4.
What are the three main ingredients used in making English Pancake batter?
Correct Answer
A. Flour, eggs, and milk
Explanation
English pancakes have three key ingredients: plain flour, eggs, and milk. The batter is runny and forms a thin layer on the bottom of the frying pan when the pan is tilted. The batter for English pancakes may also form some bubbles during cooking, but the pancake does not rise.
5.
Which country is famous for its thin pancakes called 'crêpes'?
Correct Answer
C. France
Explanation
Crêpes have been a staple food in France for centuries, often enjoyed as a sweet dessert with fillings like Nutella, jam, or fruit, or as a savory dish with cheese, ham, or vegetables. French crêperies are popular both domestically and internationally, and the skill of making perfect crêpes is considered an art form. While other countries also have their own versions of thin pancakes, like Japan's harajuku crêpes or Mexico's tlacoyos, France remains the undisputed champion of the original crêpe.
6.
What is a common alternative name for Pancake Day?
Correct Answer
B. Pancake Tuesday
Explanation
Pancake Tuesday is an alternative name for what is traditionally known as Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Christian season of Lent. Lent is a period of fasting and penance leading up to Easter. The term "Shrove Tuesday" comes from the word "shrive," which means to confess one's sins and receive absolution. On this day, people traditionally used up rich and indulgent foods before the fasting period of Lent began. The association with pancakes on this day is due to the custom of using up ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar – which were traditionally restricted during Lent – to make pancakes. Pancake Tuesday is a time for indulging in this pre-Lenten treat, and it has become a popular and festive occasion in many cultures.
7.
What is the purpose of adding baking powder to pancake batter?
Correct Answer
C. To create fluffiness
Explanation
Baking powder is a leavening agent that plays a crucial role in creating the light and fluffy texture of pancakes. It typically contains a combination of an acid (usually cream of tartar) and a base (usually baking soda). When combined with moisture (like the liquids in the pancake batter) and exposed to heat, the acid-base reaction produces carbon dioxide gas. During the cooking process, the carbon dioxide gas forms bubbles in the pancake batter. These bubbles get trapped, causing the batter to rise and expand. The result is a stack of pancakes with a soft, airy, and fluffy texture. The addition of baking powder is particularly important in pancake recipes because it contributes to the desired height and lightness, making the pancakes enjoyable to eat. Without leavening agents like baking powder, pancakes would be denser and lack the characteristic fluffiness that is often associated with this breakfast treat.
8.
In Japan, what are small, fluffy pancakes called?
Correct Answer
C. Soufflé Pancakes
Explanation
While Okonomiyaki are also Japanese pancakes, they're quite different from the small, fluffy ones you're looking for. Okonomiyaki are savory and typically have cabbage and other ingredients mixed into the batter. Taiyaki pancakes, shaped like fish, are also more dense than the desired answer. Soufflé Pancakes, on the other hand, are incredibly light and airy, created by incorporating whipped egg whites into the batter. Their texture is often compared to clouds, making them a popular and trendy treat in Japan. So, next time you're looking for a light and fluffy Japanese pancake experience, be sure to seek out those delightful Soufflé Pancakes! You won't be disappointed.
9.
What is the meaning of the term 'Shrove' in Shrove Tuesday?
Correct Answer
C. Confession
Explanation
The term "Shrove" in Shrove Tuesday originates from the Old English word "scrīfan", which means "to shrive". Shrive, in turn, means to receive absolution for one's sins through confession and penance. Therefore, Shrove Tuesday was historically the day before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent in the Christian calendar. This day was dedicated to confession and receiving absolution, preparing individuals for the period of fasting and reflection that comes with Lent. The indulgence in feasting and pancakes on Shrove Tuesday also stemmed from this practice, as it marked the last day of revelry before entering the solemn period of Lent. So, while feasting and pancakes are now popularly associated with Shrove Tuesday, the term "Shrove" itself holds a deeper religious meaning rooted in the tradition of confession and preparing for Lent.
10.
What is the purpose of letting pancake batter rest before cooking?
Correct Answer
A. To allow gluten to develop
Explanation
The purpose of letting pancake batter rest before cooking is to allow gluten to develop. Allowing the batter to rest gives the flour particles time to fully hydrate, and the gluten proteins have time to relax. This results in a more tender and cohesive pancake texture, contributing to a better overall eating experience. Resting the batter is particularly important in recipes that include wheat flour, as it allows the gluten structure to develop without overworking the batter during the mixing process.