Pancake

Traditional potato latkes are spiced up with hot paprika and enhanced with earthy porcini mushrooms. Serve with roasted meats, poultry, or fish.

The secret to extra-fluffy stack? A splash of cold, bubbly seltzer.

Yeasted pancakes mixed with saffron and cardamom (called chebab) are typical of Gulf countries, but I must confess I much prefer these lacy thin crepes.

Follow the instructions for cooking the pancakes carefully; the unique method of layering the batter is crucial in achieving that cloudlike texture.

With a handful of ingredients and easy cleanup, this brunch favorite only looks like you spent all morning at the stove.