VIDEO: how to make the perfect pancake

We asked the team at The Pig and Jacket (http://www.pigandjacket.co.uk/), popular at markets across Sussex, to show us how to create the perfect pancake (see video). Once you have your perfect pancake, though, what do you have with them? Do you prefer a thin and buttery crepe, or a deliciously thick American offering? Will you plump for sickly and sweet, with sugar toppings, or filling and savoury and perhaps stuffed with cheese? Whatever your choice, we promise there’s one you’ll like. Historically, eating pancakes was seen as a way to use up rich foods before Lent, which begins the following day on Ash Wednesday. The fasting season that follows lasts for 40 days. Which pancakes will you try this year? Here are a few suggestions. Lemon and sugar: A classic combination. Who can fault it? Chocolate sauce: The perfect choice for a chocoholic - keep the cakes thin and crispy, before drenching them in your chocolate sauce of choice - white, milk, or dark? Melted chocolate and strawberries: For something a bit more decadent. Reach for your favourite chocolate bar and melt it down in the saucepan for a few minutes. Add strawberries! Red berries and whipped cream: Great for a treat breakfast! Opt for squirty cream, or whip your own double cream for an extra touch of class. Maple syrup and crispy bacon: Who says you have to choose between sweet and savoury? Have the best of both worlds and enjoy this pleasing dish. Cinnamon sugar and golden syrup: The ultimate sugar overload - but definitely a good choice. Drench in syrup and sprinkle with the tasty, spicy sugar. Ham and melted cheese: Turn your pudding into a meal with smoked ham and your favourite melted cheese. Hoisin duck pancakes: Okay, we know this is cheating a little bit. But if you can’t be bothered to whip up your own batch, head out to your favourite Oriental restaurant for a portion. Crunchy peanut butter and raspberry jam: It’s a classic sandwich, so why not make it a classic pancake dish? Pack your pancake full of the fillings, fold it over and enjoy! Sliced banana and smooth peanut butter: A firm favourite for all the family - and you’re even sneaking a bit of fruit in there too. Cream cheese and red onion: If you don’t have a sweet tooth, this one is bound to tickle the taste buds. Fry off your onions and let the cheese start to melt - yum!