Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Wash and shred 2 cups of cabbage finely. Place it in a large bowl, sprinkle a pinch of salt, and let it sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Squeeze gently to remove water; this ensures your pancakes stay crispy.
- Pro Tip: Removing excess water prevents soggy nests.
- Step 2: Mix the Batter
- In a separate bowl, whisk 4 eggs until smooth. Add shredded cabbage, onions, flour, coriander, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine into a sticky, cohesive batter.
- Step 3: Preheat the Pan
- Use a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat (≈180°C / 356°F). Add 1 tbsp oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Step 4:Shape the Nests
- Take a small handful of the batter and form a nest shape by creating a small well in the center. Press lightly to flatten the base while keeping the center hollow for the egg.
- Step 5: Cook the Base
- Place the nests carefully on the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Step 6:Add Eggs
- Crack an egg into the center of each nest. Reduce heat to low-medium (160°C / 320°F). Cover with a lid and cook for 4-5 minutes until the egg whites are set but yolks remain slightly runny.
- Pro Tip: For fully cooked yolks, cover and cook for 6-7 minutes.
- Step 7: Flip (Optional)
- If you prefer eggs fully cooked on both sides, carefully flip the nests using a spatula, cook an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the nests remain intact.
- Step 8: Crisp the Edges
- Add a few drops of oil around the edges and let them crisp for another 1 minute. You should see golden, crunchy edges while the center stays soft.
- Step 9: Remove and Serve
- Transfer nests to a serving plate. Garnish with extra coriander, chili flakes, or a drizzle of yogurt.
Notes
Variations
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or chopped green chilies.
- Gluten-free: Replace flour with chickpea flour.
- Vegan: Use chickpea flour batter + tofu instead of eggs.
Substitutions
- Olive oil, avocado oil, or sunflower oil.
- Cheese can be replaced with paneer or vegan cheese.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Mix batter and store in fridge for 1 day.
- Fully cooked nests can be frozen and reheated in a skillet.
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Avoid soggy nests by squeezing out excess cabbage moisture.
- Under-seasoned pancakes can be remedied with a pinch of salt after cooking.
Tools & Equipment
- 12-inch skillet or non-stick pan
- Whisk
- Spatula
Serving Ideas
- Serve with yogurt, green chutney, or tomato ketchup.
- Pair with light salad or smoothie for a full meal.
