Swiss Chard Pancakes (Farcous) Recipe – French Special
Swiss Chard Pancakes, known as Farçous, are a cherished specialty from the Aveyron region in southern France. These savory pancakes are made by blending fresh Swiss chard with eggs, flour, and aromatic herbs, then pan-frying them to golden perfection. Farçous are not only a delicious way to enjoy leafy greens but also a testament to the resourcefulness of French cuisine, transforming simple ingredients into a flavorful dish. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or light vegetarian main course, Farçous offer a delightful taste of French culinary tradition.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time30 min
For the Pancakes:
- 1 bunch Swiss chard (about 250g), stems removed, leaves finely chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter, for frying
Prepare the Chard:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the chopped Swiss chard for 1–2 minutes.
Drain well, let cool slightly, and squeeze out any excess moisture.
Roughly chop again if needed.
Make the Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
Stir in the flour until a smooth batter forms.
Add the chard, onion, garlic, parsley, chives, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
Cook the Pancakes:
Heat a bit of olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Drop spoonfuls of batter into the pan, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon.
Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.
Serve:
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Delicious with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a simple vinaigrette salad.
Recipe Notes :
Blanching Chard: Blanching the Swiss chard before adding it to the batter helps to soften the leaves and reduce any bitterness.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like tarragon or thyme to customize the flavor of your Farçous.
Pan-Frying Tips: Use a non-stick skillet and cook the pancakes over medium heat to ensure they cook evenly without burning.
Gluten-Free Options: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions: Serve Farçous warm with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
