Beghrir
Moroccan Thousand-Hole Pancakes
Beghrir, also known as 'thousand-hole pancakes', are light, spongy Moroccan crepes riddled with tiny holes. These delicate pancakes are perfect for soaking up sweet sauces, traditionally served drizzled with honey and butter.
🧂 Ingredients
- 200 g Fine semolina(Ensure it's fine semolina for a smooth batter.)
- 100 g All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Active dry yeast
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 400 ml Warm water(Water should be lukewarm, around 40-45°C (105-115°F), to activate the yeast.)
- 0.5 tsp Salt(Optional, but enhances flavor.)
- for serving Honey(Warmed honey is ideal for drizzling.)
- for serving Butter(Unsalted butter, melted or softened.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Combine dry ingredients: In a blender, add the fine semolina, all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, baking powder, and salt (if using).
⏱️ 1 minute - 2
Add wet ingredients and blend: Pour in the warm water. Blend on high speed for about 2-3 minutes until the batter is completely smooth and has a consistency similar to thin crepe batter or heavy cream. Ensure no lumps remain.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 3
First rest: Pour the batter into a bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes. The batter should become noticeably bubbly and slightly frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 4
Prepare for cooking: Lightly grease a non-stick skillet or griddle with a little oil or butter, or use a cooking spray. Heat it over medium heat. The pan is ready when a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly. Aim for a consistent temperature; too hot and they'll burn, too cool and they won't form holes.
- 5
Cook the beghrir: Ladle about 1/4 cup (60ml) of batter per pancake onto the preheated skillet. Do not spread the batter; let it form a circular shape on its own. Cook undisturbed over medium heat.
⏱️ 2-3 minutes per pancake - 6
Observe the holes: As the pancake cooks, you will see tiny bubbles forming on the surface. These bubbles will grow and eventually create the characteristic 'thousand holes'. Cook until the surface appears dry and matte, and the holes are fully formed. The bottom should be lightly golden.
- 7
Remove and repeat: Carefully slide the cooked beghrir onto a plate. If desired, you can place a piece of parchment paper between each pancake to prevent sticking. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter, lightly greasing the pan as needed between pancakes. Adjust heat if pancakes are cooking too quickly or too slowly.
⏱️ 15 minutes (for all pancakes) - 8
Serve: Arrange the warm beghrir on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with warmed honey and dot with butter. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure your yeast is active by checking for foam when mixed with warm water and a pinch of sugar before adding to the batter.
- ✓The consistency of the batter is key. If it seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water. If too thin, let it rest a bit longer.
- ✓Cook beghrir over consistent medium heat. If the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the holes form. If too cool, the holes may not develop properly.
- ✓Do not flip the beghrir. They are cooked only on one side to achieve the characteristic texture and appearance.
- ✓The 'thousand holes' are formed by the escaping gases from the yeast and baking powder reacting with the heat. Proper resting and cooking temperature are essential for this.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1 teaspoon of orange blossom water to the batter for a fragrant twist.
- For a savory version, omit sugar (if used) and serve with cheese or herbs.
- Use a mix of semolina and whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.