Pre-Lent Feast: Cheese-Filled Recipes for Pancake Day and Maslenitsa
This week marks a unique culinary convergence as pancake day and Orthodox Maslenitsa, also known as cheesefare week, align on the calendar. Both traditions celebrate indulgence before the solemn period of Lent, offering a perfect excuse to savor rich, dairy-based dishes. Whether you observe these religious events or simply enjoy festive foods, this overlap invites a delightful exploration of cheesy recipes that cater to all ages.
Celebrating Dual Traditions
Pancake day, a beloved occasion in many households, typically involves a full day of cooking with both sweet and savory crepes. This year, it coincides with Orthodox Maslenitsa, a week dedicated to consuming dairy products before the 40-day Lenten fast begins. While these celebrations often fall weeks apart due to differences between the Gregorian and Julian calendars, their shared purpose is to enjoy animal products like cheese and milk. For those of Orthodox faith, this week follows meat week, emphasizing a shift to dairy to clear the house of such items. Regardless of religious affiliation, any tradition that encourages eating copious amounts of cheese is a welcome one.
Family-Friendly Cheese Delights
With half-term adding to the mix, recipes must appeal to small palates while using up dairy supplies. A standout option is Reem Kassis's za'atar and halloumi scones, which have proven a hit with children and adults alike. These scones are not only delicious but also freezer-friendly, making them ideal for quick snacks or light lunches. Another crowd-pleaser is Blanche Vaughan's potato, thyme, and taleggio galette, a free-form pastry that offers a satisfying baking experience. The nutty flavor from wholemeal flour enhances the dish, and any combination of strong, oozy cheeses can be substituted based on fridge remnants.
For a playful twist, simplified pimento cheese and pickle-loaded crisps provide fun for playdates and gatherings of all ages. Preparing the cheese spread in advance allows for easy use as a sandwich filling or bread topper. To address the abundance of yoghurt and milk, Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley's ma'caroneh bil laban offers a quick, deeply delicious pasta dish dressed in yoghurt, perfect for post-work meals. Baking enthusiasts will appreciate Benjamina Ebuehi's grapefruit yoghurt loaf cake, which combines seasonal citrus with yoghurt usage and satisfies afternoon snack cravings.
Sweet Endings and Kitchen Discoveries
Dessert options include homemade frozen yoghurt, a versatile treat that can be dressed up with honey and pistachios or made playful with smashed Smarties and strawberries. Keeping a batch in the freezer ensures a quick, delicious dessert anytime. On a lighter note, Georgina Hayden's layered rainbow jelly has gained attention for its silliness and fun, using Aeroplane jelly from specialty shops for an impressive effect. For pantry staples, Sunfly's sunflower seed butters have become a breakfast favorite, offering a nut-free, protein-rich option for allergy-aware households.
In literary news, Gennaro Contaldo's upcoming book, Gennaro's Hidden Italy, promises to expand culinary horizons with lesser-known Italian recipes like spaghetti all'assassina. This colorful guide is sure to inspire hunger and new menu additions. To explore more food insights, subscribing to weekly newsletters like Feast can provide ongoing inspiration for festive and everyday cooking.
