Easy Vegan crepes

Celebrating Chandeleur: The French Tradition of Crêpes and Candlelight with Vegan Delights

What is Chandeleur

In the heart of winter, just when the frost begins to thaw and whispers of spring linger in the air, French people embrace the long lasting tradition known as Chandeleur. Observed on February 2nd, Chandeleur, also called Candlemas in many parts of the world, marks the midpoint between winter solstice and the spring equinox. That time of year when the days are getting longer! It’s a delightful occasion celebrated with delicious crêpes and candlelight.

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ITS History

Chandeleur has roots that intertwine religious significance with ancient pagan traditions. Originally a Christian feast commemorating the presentation of Jesus at the temple and the purification of the Virgin Mary, it later absorbed elements of pagan rituals celebrating the return of light and the promise of spring. The word “Chandeleur” itself is derived from the Latin term “festum candelarum,” meaning “feast of candles.”

NOWADAYS FRENCH Customs and Traditions

At the heart of Chandeleur celebrations are the age-old customs that continue to enchant families across France. One enduring tradition involves the lighting of candles, symbolizing the returning light and warmth of the sun as winter wanes and spring draws nearer. In some regions, people bless candles in churches and carry them in processions through the streets, infusing the night with a soft, flickering glow.

However, the culinary highlight of Chandeleur undoubtedly lies in the art of making and enjoying crêpes; sweet and/or savoury.

Not to be confused with pancakes which are veryy different! Crêpes are larger, thin and not fluffy.

They hold a special place in French culture, and Chandeleur offers the perfect excuse to indulge in their delectable goodness. Legend has it that spinning a crêpe in one hand while holding a gold coin in the other ensures prosperity and good fortune for the coming year.

My GO-TO Vegan Crêpes Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe will make about 15/20 crepes. I personally double those quantities for my family of four. If you are like me and enjoy savoury and sweet crepes made from the small batter, use no sugar/no or less vanilla in the following recipe.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk) mixed with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar (act as an egg alternative)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

VIDEO

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl or electric mixer (I use the kitchenaid mixer), whisk together the flour and sugar (if using). I sieve the flour in my video to avoid lumps in the batter.
2. Pour the vegetable oil and vanilla extract (if using). Gradually pour in the plant-based milk. Whisk until smooth and well combined. The batter should be thin, similar to the consistency of heavy cream. If it’s too thick, add a little more vegan milk.
3. Heat a non-stick crêpe pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with oil (spray) or vegan butter.
4. Once the pan is hot, pour a small ladleful of batter into the centre of the pan. Quickly tilt and swirl the pan to spread the batter evenly in a thin layer.
5. Cook the crêpe for 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to lift and the bottom is lightly golden brown.
6. Carefully flip the crêpe using a spatula, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes on the other side, until lightly golden.
7. Transfer the cooked crêpe to a plate and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, greasing the pan as needed.
8. Serve the crêpes warm with your favourite vegan fillings and toppings, such as fresh fruit, dairy-free chocolate spread, vegan ice cream or vegan whipped cream. Or be creative and add savoury fillings, such as hummus, spinach and vegan cheese; those fillings for a savoury crêpe would need to be added whilst one side of the crêpe has been cooked and the other side is still cooking on the pan.

To finish

So let’s raise our glasses, flip our crêpes, and embrace the light that Chandeleur brings into our lives. Joyeuse Chandeleur à tous! (Happy Chandeleur to all!)

And remember, if your crêpe flipping skills are as shaky as a leaf in the wind, fear not! It’s all part of the fun and the eventual charm of your crêpe-making adventures. Happy flipping! 🌱😋