The ultimate pancake guide: Desi dosa and cheela, plus other global delights

We all love a good plate of pancakes. From savoury to sweet, and everything in between, Pancakes are a go-to in many parts of the world. While in India, we have the savoury dosa and cheela, in Japan, they enjoy a sweet, fluffy version of the pancake. Here are some more pancake variations we bet you did not know about.

India’s pancake

Did you know that India’s beloved dosa ranks tenth in Taste Atlas’s 2024 list of the world’s top 10 pancakes? This savory pancake is made from a fermented mixture of rice and black gram, creating a batter that’s crisp on the outside and soft underneath.

Indian dosa. (Image: Canva)

While it is a South Indian speciality, dosa is enjoyed across India. Served with chutneys and sambar, dosa is a breakfast staple across southern India. Its versatility allows it to be stuffed with a variety of fillings, from potato masala to paneer, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a filling and flavorful meal.

North India loves cheela

In North India, cheela takes the spotlight as a pancake of both sweet and salty varieties. Be it the sweet cheela version made with atta and jaggery or the savoury one filled with veggies, cheela is a staple.

This pancake is often served with a variety of chutneys, which complement the texture and flavour of the cheela. It's a simple yet flavorful dish, making it a great breakfast.

Japanese fluffy pancakes

Japanese pancakes are unlike their American counterparts, offering a lighter, fluffier alternative. These soufflé-style pancakes are cooked in rings to achieve a tall and fluffy texture, often served with a drizzle of syrup or whipped cream. Unlike the American variety, Japanese pancakes tend to be less sweet, allowing for a more delicate flavor.

In India, many restaurants like the Harajuku Tokyo Cafe offer this delicious Japanese pancake.

Korea’s Yachaejeon

Yachaejeon, the Korean vegetable pancake, is a quick and easy snack loved by many for its simplicity and versatility. Made with a variety of vegetables like zucchini, onions, and carrots, these pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Austria’s Kaiserschmarrn

Kaiserschmarrn is a fluffy, shredded pancake from Austria, named after Emperor Franz Joseph I. This dessert-style pancake is made with a thick batter, which is then fried and shredded into bite-sized pieces. It’s often studded with raisins or currants and makes for a great dessert.

Which pancake do you love?

From the savoury dosa of India to the sweet, fluffy Kaiserschmarrn of Austria, pancakes are an international comfort food that can be enjoyed in countless forms. Whether you prefer your pancakes sweet or savoury, light or hearty, there’s a variety to suit every taste and occasion. These pancakes are more than just food—they’re a reflection of each culture’s unique culinary traditions and an invitation to explore the flavours of the world. So, why not take a bite and enjoy the diverse, delicious pancake traditions from across the globe?