The Best Protein Pancakes: Ancient Greek & High-Protein Recipes
Love high-protein pancakes? Discover healthy pancake recipes, including cottage cheese pancakes, Greek tiganites, and savory protein pancakes made with einkorn flour. Whether you prefer a fluffy protein pancake or a savory, nutrient-dense option, these recipes will keep you full and energized!
Recreating Ancient Greek Pancakes (Tiganites)
📜 The Original Pancake Recipe from 500 B.C.
Before fluffy pancake stacks and syrup-drenched brunches, the Greeks were already flipping tiganites—thin, crispy pancakes made with just flour, water, and olive oil. These ancient pancakes were often topped with honey and sesame seeds, making them a simple but satisfying breakfast.
Ancient Greek Pancake Recipe
Ingredients:
1 cup wheat flour
1 cup water
A pinch of salt
Olive oil for frying
Honey and sesame seeds for topping
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix wheat flour, water, and salt until smooth.
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Pour a small ladleful of batter into the pan, spreading it thinly.
Fry until the edges turn golden, then flip to cook the other side.
Remove from the pan and drizzle with honey, sprinkling with sesame seeds.
🥄 Fun Fact: Greek philosopher Cratinus wrote about these pancakes over 2,000 years ago!
Modern High-Protein Pancakes: A Healthier Take on the Classic
💪 Packed with Protein, Low in Sugar, and Full of Flavor
While the Ancient Greek pancakes were simple, modern pancakes can be high-protein and nutrient-dense. We’re upgrading the classic with cottage cheese, einkorn flour, and eggs for a healthier, high-protein breakfast that keeps you full longer.
Traditional High-Protein Pancakes (12 Pancakes)
Ingredients:
1 cup (250g) non-fat or low-fat cottage cheese (4% fat for more creaminess)
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¾ cup (90g) Einkorn flour
1 tsp baking powder
2 tbsp water (adjust as needed for consistency)
1 tbsp avocado oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
In a blender, combine cottage cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together Einkorn flour and baking powder.
Pour the blended wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If the batter is too thick, add a little water (1 tbsp at a time).
Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add a small amount of avocado oil and wipe away excess.
Use an ice cream scoop or large spoon to drop batter onto the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form on top, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt, fresh berries, or a drizzle of agave syrup (lower glycemic than maple syrup).
Alternative Protein Sources & Healthy Swaps:
✔ Swap cottage cheese for Greek yogurt (higher protein) or ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
✔ Add protein powder (½ scoop vanilla or unflavored) for an extra boost.
✔ Use almond flour instead of Einkorn for a lower-carb option.
Savory High-Protein Pancakes with Bacon, Chives & Cheese
A great option for a satisfying, protein-rich breakfast that pairs well with eggs or avocado.
Ingredients:
1 cup (250g) cottage cheese
3 large eggs
¾ cup (90g) Einkorn flour
1 tsp baking powder
2 tbsp water (adjust as needed)
½ cup shredded parmesan reggiano cheese
¼ cup cooked turkey bacon crumbles (about 2-3 slices)
2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1 tbsp avocado oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
In a blender, blend cottage cheese and eggs until smooth.
In a bowl, whisk together Einkorn flour and baking powder.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
Fold in shredded parmesan, crumbled bacon, and chives. If the batter is too thick, add a little water (1 tbsp at a time).
Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of avocado oil and wipe away excess.
Scoop batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges set, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Serve warm with a side of Greek yogurt, avocado, or a poached egg.
Healthy Swaps & Additions:
✔ Swap parmesan for feta for a tangier taste with less fat.
✔ Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner option.
✔ Add sautéed spinach and/or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Final Thoughts: Ancient Meets Modern in the Perfect Pancake
🥞 Pancakes aren’t going anywhere, but with a few upgrades, they can fuel your morning without the crash. Whether you go high-protein or old-school Greek, you’re in good company—because even the ancients knew a good breakfastwhen they saw one.
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