Popover

A popover is a delightful, airy roll made from an egg batter, reminiscent of Yorkshire pudding. Typically baked in muffin tins or specialized popover pans with straight sides, these treats can be enjoyed in various ways. You can serve them as a sweet indulgence with fruit and whipped cream, or with butter and jam for a cozy breakfast. They also make a lovely addition to afternoon tea or can be paired with meats for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

The name "popover" originates from the way the batter rises and "pops" over the top of the tin during baking. Occasionally, they are referred to as Laplanders. Essentially, popovers are the American adaptation of Yorkshire pudding and similar batter puddings that have been popular in England since the 17th century.

The first known mention of popovers dates back to 1850, and the earliest cookbook featuring a popover recipe was published in 1876. There are different takes on popovers, such as the Portland popover pudding, which includes garlic and herbs. In the United States, some variations use pumpkin puree instead of flour and add spices like allspice or nutmeg. However, most American popovers have a rich, buttery flavor and usually aren't flavored with meat or herbs. The poet Ogden Nash even made humorous remarks about the history of popovers, highlighting their quirky charm.