Savory Parmesan Waffles: the Recipe for Quick, Soft Waffles

Parmesan savory waffles are an easy, tasty and very quick recipe to make. It is an exquisite variant of sweet waffles, very popular in Belgium, but also very popular in Italy. They are ideal for a quick lunch in the office or at the seaside, for a picnic in the park or to serve as an appetizer, aperitif or at a Sunday brunch. They are prepared with a few simple ingredients: flour, eggs, milk, oil, grated parmesan cheese, chopped chives and instant yeast for savory pies. Once the dough has been made, it is left in the refrigerator for an hour and then it is poured in small doses onto the hot waffle maker, which will give the waffles the classic honeycomb shape. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they will win over adults and children alike.

Waffle's Origins

Waffles trace their origins back to the Middle Ages in Europe, evolving from the communion wafers used in churches. These early waffles were cooked over an open fire between two metal plates with wooden handles, featuring elaborate designs, often with religious motifs. By the 13th century, as the popularity of these crisp cakes spread, they began to take on more secular designs and were enjoyed by people outside the church as a treat. The name "waffle" comes from the Dutch word "wafel," which reflects the honeycomb pattern that is characteristic of these delicious treats. Over time, waffles have become a beloved breakfast staple around the world, enjoyed in numerous variations and flavors.

The Three Types of Waffles

Waffles, with their delightful textures and intricate patterns, have captivated taste buds across the globe, evolving into various forms that cater to different palates and traditions. Among the plethora of styles, three main types stand out: Belgian, American, and Liège waffles, each with its unique characteristics and appeal.

Belgian Waffles are perhaps the most renowned variant internationally, celebrated for their large size, deep pockets, and light, airy texture. Originating from Belgium, these waffles are made with a batter leavened with yeast or beaten egg whites, giving them a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. Belgian waffles are often served with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce, making them a versatile base for a plethora of toppings.

American Waffles, on the other hand, are thinner and denser than their Belgian counterparts, with smaller, shallower pockets. Made from a batter that often includes baking powder as a leavening agent, American waffles are known for their crispy texture and golden-brown exterior. They are a breakfast staple in the United States, commonly served with butter and maple syrup, though they can also be topped with fruit and other sweet accompaniments.

Liège Waffles are a richer, denser, sweeter, and chewier variant, distinct from the Belgian and American styles. Originating from the city of Liège in Eastern Belgium, these waffles are made with a brioche dough batter mixed with pearl sugar. When cooked, the sugar pearls caramelize on the outside, creating a unique texture and a sweet, crunchy exterior. Liège waffles are typically enjoyed plain or with minimal toppings, allowing their distinctive taste and texture to shine through.

Tips and Variations on Savory Waffles

– We have chosen a simple and tasty filling: ham, spread cheese, tomato and salad, but you can fill them as you like; you can try raw ham, arugula and parmesan flakes, tuna and artichokes, smoked salmon, avocado and fresh spinach, grilled chicken breast and roasted peppers or grilled vegetables and primosale cheese, for a light vegetarian version.

– You can replace the 00 flour with wholemeal or spelled flour, the cow's milk with a vegetable drink and enrich the batter with various aromatic herbs, such a thyme, mint, basil and parsley, or with spices.

– You can prepare waffles ahead and have them ready to fill and make delicious "sandwiches" on any occasion, to enjoy alone, with family or with friends.

More Waffles Recipes You Might Like

Croffles

Pizza Waffles

Waffle Omelette

Chicken and Waffles Nachos

How to Store Savory Parmesan Waffles

The savory parmesan waffles, without their filling, can be kept for 3 days in the refrigerator, wrapped in cling film; once they're stuffed, it is advisable to eat them at the moment or at most, during the day.

Find out how to make savory parmesan waffles by following our step-by-step procedure and advice.

How to Make Savory Parmesan Waffles

Crack the eggs into a large bowl.

Add the grated parmesan.

Add the chives, finely chopped.

Pour in the sunflower oil.

Add the milk.

Mix the ingredients with an electric whisk.

Add the flour.

Add the instant yeast powder for savory preparations. Mix again with an electric whisk.

The mixture must be a sort of thick, lump-free batter.

Cover with cling film and place the savory parmesan waffle dough in the refrigerator for about an hour.

Once the resting time has passed, take the dough out of the refrigerator and turn on the waffle maker.

Using a ladle, pour the mixture into the hot waffle maker.

Close the waffle maker and let the savory waffles cook for about 4 minutes.

The waffles will thus take their characteristic shape.

Detach the waffles using a spatula.

As you cook the waffles, arrange them on a plate and let them cool.

Cut the tomato into slices.

Spread the cheese on the waffle.

Cover the entire surface of the waffles with cream cheese.

Place the ham on top of the cheese.

Add the salad leaf.

Also add the tomato slice.

Cover with the waffle.

Press gently with your hands to compact the waffle.

Cut the savory waffles in half.

You got two triangles, use a wooden toothpick to hold the layers together.

The savory waffles are ready to be enjoyed in all their goodness.