National Waffle Day: The history of this crunchy treat, from ancient Greece to your kitchen

We humans celebrate peculiar days as special occasions, and today is one of those instances: National Waffle Day. It's an observance that pays homage to the cherished waffle, a delectable delight that has won over hearts and taste buds across the globe. Yet, did you know its origins trace back to Ancient Greece?

A global rise in waffle fervor

With each passing year, the fervor for waffles escalates. While they've become a staple breakfast choice in the West, Indians regard waffles as a delightful indulgence reserved for momentous occasions. This is in part due to the influence of treateries offering Belgian waffles, which have propelled waffles to new heights of popularity.

The history of waffles: A quick journey

Waffles, renowned for their distinct grid-like appearance, boast a history that spans centuries and cultures. The story unfolds as follows:

• In ancient times, the Greeks cooked thin cakes between metal plates.
• Medieval Europe witnessed the emergence of patterned waffle irons at fairs.
• The Dutch introduced leavening agents in the 16th-18th centuries, yielding fluffier waffles. Belgium contributed larger, pocketed waffles.
• The 20th century welcomed electric irons, democratizing access to waffles.
• The invention of frozen waffles in the 1950s brought unparalleled convenience.
• Presently, waffles range from classic breakfast fare drenched in syrup to innovative desserts adorned with diverse toppings. They symbolize both comfort and culinary creativity, celebrated worldwide for their delicious historical journey.

August 24: A special date for waffles

Each year on August 24, National Waffle Day commemorates Cornelius Swarthout's 1869 patent of the first waffle maker.

Celebrate National Waffle Day: Indulgence and appreciation

National Waffle Day presents the perfect opportunity to revel in this delightful treat, whether you savor them plain with a dusting of powdered sugar, laden with your favorite toppings, or incorporated into a savory dish.

It's a day to recognize the art of crafting waffles and the sheer joy they bring to our palates.

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So, on this National Waffle Day, why not treat yourself to a crispy, golden waffle and take a moment to savour its history and deliciousness? Here are some famous recipes for you: 

Belgian Waffles

These are known for their light, fluffy interior and deep grids. Here's how you can make them: 

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your Belgian waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, and whisk until well combined.

4. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

5. Cook the Waffles : Once the waffle iron is preheated, lightly grease it with non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of melted butter. Pour an appropriate amount of batter onto the centre of the waffle iron, leaving some space around the edges to allow for expansion.

Close the waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically for about 3-5 minutes, until the waffles are golden brown and crisp. AND SERVE!

Feel free to experiment with toppings and variations to make the waffles your own. You can also add ingredients like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even savory ingredients to the batter for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Now, if you are someone who likes to eat healthy, here's a quick oats waffle recipe for you. 

Oat waffles offer a nutritious twist to the traditional waffle recipe, providing fiber and whole grains. You can also customize these waffles by adding ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even chopped nuts to the batter for extra flavour and texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 egg 
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, blend the rolled oats until they turn into a fine oat flour.

2. Add the milk, ripe banana, egg, honey or maple syrup (if using), baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the blender. Blend until all the ingredients are well combined and the batter is smooth.

3. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.

4.  Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.

5. Pour the oat batter onto the preheated waffle iron, using an appropriate amount of batter for your waffle iron's size.

6. Close the waffle iron and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crisp, and Volla!

So, now to mark this day either make or get yourself a waffle.

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