Cheese adds a savory depth to waffles
Adding cheese to your waffles introduces a rich, savory dimension that transforms them from a standard sweet breakfast into something extraordinary. The type of cheese you choose can vary based on how you prepare your waffles. For instance, incorporating shredded aged English or Irish cheddar into the batter creates a delightful, crispy waffle with a pleasantly salty and sharp taste. Alternatively, using grated aged pecorino can add an even bolder, tangy kick.
Soft cheeses can also be a fantastic topping. A delicious way to use up leftover cream cheese is to blend it with fresh dill and chives, then spread a generous dollop on your cooked waffles. You can keep it simple at this point, but for an added layer of smoky flavor and protein, consider garnishing with lox.
Meat brings hearty, satisfying flavors
Meat and cheese deliver a delightful burst of flavor, but when it comes to waffles, you don’t have to mix the two to achieve tasty results. Using meat alone can enhance the heartiness of your dish and infuse it with rich, smoky notes. A classic example is the beloved combination of fried chicken and waffles, but you can satisfy your meaty waffle cravings without deep-frying. Starting with ham is a great option; simply tear regular deli slices into pieces and mix them with your flour and spices before preparing your batter.
Bacon, the beloved staple of breakfast, also pairs wonderfully with waffles. To incorporate bacon, cook and crumble about six strips, then fold them into your waffle batter. While regular bacon works well, you might also want to try a thicker, artisanal variety for a more robust flavor and texture akin to lardons. For a unique twist, consider using candied bacon to add a hint of sweetness to your savory waffles.
Sesame and scallions are a dynamic duo
There are endless flavor possibilities when it comes to savory waffles. To create a dish reminiscent of a beloved take-out classic, enhance your batter with toasted sesame oil, sesame seeds, and chopped scallions. Adding cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, can elevate these sesame scallion waffles with a delightful sharpness.
For a more traditional approach, skip the cheese and incorporate NPG Premium Szechuan Red Peppercorn Powder and Frontier Co-Op Five Spice Powder into the mix. These unique spices will deliver a burst of flavor along with a distinctive tingling sensation on the palate.
Herbs and spices elevate waffles to new heights
Transforming your waffles into a savory treat requires more than just eye-catching ingredients. The right blend of spices and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor, allowing you to infuse your waffles with the essence of various global cuisines. Mixing in a teaspoon each of rosemary, parsley, thyme, and tarragon with your flour imparts a delightful French touch, making the waffles delicious on their own or perfect for pairing with chicken, beef, or eggs.
For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding sweet paprika and dried red chili flakes — and for an extra layer of flavor, include honey and olive oil. Lastly, if you're aiming for waffles that pair beautifully with chicken tikka masala, red lentil dal, or any rich, creamy soup, try incorporating curry powder along with black and white pepper.
Sourdough creates a uniquely flavorful waffle
This recipe is particularly ideal for bakers seeking creative ways to utilize sourdough discard, though it can also be made with a freshly fed starter. The tangy notes of sourdough create a waffle that pairs beautifully with cheese, yet is delightful enough to stand on its own. To achieve this distinctive flavor, simply whisk your sourdough starter together with the eggs and milk (if you're using it).
A sourdough waffle can serve as a fantastic main dish on its own or as the "bread" for a chicken sandwich or BLT, generously topped with Calabrian chile spicy mayo. Alternatively, you can explore a sweet-and-savory option by making a brie and fig jam sandwich for a more refined flavor combination.
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