School Holidays, Scattered Books & Toys, Pancakes and Jam (Recipe Included)

It's a lazy weekday – well, as lazy as it gets with four energetic boys bouncing off the walls during the school holidays. The house is a symphony of mismatched socks, misplaced toys, and a never-ending chorus of "Ibu, boleh buka tab tak?", "Ibu, Adam buat Fateh,", "Ibu, kita boring,", "Ibu, kita lapar. Nak makan," - lagi? - echoing through the halls. But amidst the chaos, a flicker of inspiration ignites (more like a sweet craving).

Scrolling through Instagram, I stumble upon @reidsactivekitchen's Dutch baby pancake magic. Fluffy, golden, and bursting with potential, it sparks a craving for something warm and comforting. But I'm too lazy to use the oven (More excuses)

So, I improvise - a simple pancake will do. Dunk all ingredients, blend it quick and sizzle on the pan.

But wait, there's more! Those neglected nectarines and strawberries, languishing in the crisper drawer, whisper sweet possibilities. A quick jam-making session ensues, fueled by caffeine (an essential mom weapon) and a dash of creativity. The vibrant nectarines and plump strawberries simmer, their juices transforming into a delicious, chunky spread.

Soon, shimmering pancakes grace plates, topped with vibrant jam. The boys, drawn by the tempting scent, gather eagerly. The first bite, a mix of textures and flavors, hushes them in sheer delight. A sweet triumph amid holiday chaos, a quiet moment of joy.

Here's the recipe to turn your lazy weekday into a delicious adventure:

🥞 For the Pancake:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 egg
1 cup milk
2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
3. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients. Gently whisk until just combined, a few lumps are okay.
4. Heat a lightly greased griddle or pan over medium heat. Pour batter onto the griddle, forming circles as desired.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and bubbles appear on the surface. Flip and cook for another minute or so.

For the Nectarine🍑 & Strawberry🍓 Jam:

100g ripe nectarines, pitted and chopped
Handful of strawberries, hulled and halved
1-2 tbsp lemon juice (I use lime juice)
2-3 tbsp maple syrup (start with less and adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine chopped nectarines, strawberries, lemon juice, and water.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes, or until the fruit softens and releases its juices.
3. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to break down some of the fruit for a chunky-smooth consistency, or leave it intact for a jammier texture.
4. Reduce heat to low and add maple syrup a tablespoon at a time, stirring well after each addition. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
5. Cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the jam thickens and reaches your desired consistency. A spoonful on a chilled plate should wrinkle as you push it with your finger. This is a common test for checking if the jam has reached the desired consistency. If the jam is still too runny, it will continue to flow and not wrinkle. If it is too thick, it will be difficult to spread.
6. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, if using. Let cool slightly.

Gather your little adventurers (and maybe even negotiate that chaos-free zone!), and settle in for a delicious breakfast filled with laughter, sticky fingers, and happy memories. Remember, even on the craziest of days, these simple moments of connection and creativity can make all the difference. So go forth Mak-Mak Sedunia, and conquer the chaos, one pancake (and jam-slathered masterpiece) at a time!