Crêpes in Germany

A crêpe (pronounced /kreɪp/, French IPA: [kʀɛp]) is a type of very thin, cooked pancake usually made from wheat flour. The word, like the pancake itself, is of French origin, deriving from the Latin crispa, meaning "curled." While crêpes originate from Brittany, a region in the northwest of France, their consumption is nowadays widespread in France.

Thats the definition I pulled up from wikipedia for the those who dont know what I am talking about. So Anne, the french girl I know, and a friend organized a wonderful Crêpes party for people who dont know what its all about. She lives in a Private house much better than the StudentenWohnheim where I live, and organized it beautifully. Since I am not much of a drinker she saved on the wine, but I ate three of those Crêpes.

When I think of pancakes I think of a thick round piece of flour eaten with loads of maplesyrup. This was different and delicious indeed. Jelly and chocolate was used instead, and I filled mine with loads of chocolate (my new favorite in Germany). Surprisingly, I realized how similar is the preparation from that of an indian delicacy called "cheela". I dont know what are they called in English, but as much as I saw Crêpes being made, I realized I can so do it.

I like it how Europeans (if I may generalize) like to do these small parties for other friends bearing all the costs. I have been to so many of them where people come eat, drink (a must), talk, meet each other, show ineterst in your culture and leave without getting drunk. Its just amazing.

Talking about cultural talks, the one question that I get the most being from India, is about the caste system. I think Germans do read a lot about us. People know so much about India here. Its so refreshing. Sometimes I think they read more about India than I do (bloody American effect).

Stranger: So tell me about India. Is it true, you have a hierarchical structure
Me: You mean the caste system
Stranger: Yeah!
Me: We do, but its not the prevelant in the cities, and I am from Delhi. But in villages it is prolly. You see we are a third world country so these things still exist
Stranger: India is so not a third world country. I mean look at the progress.

Haha! That made my day. I like people here. They get it. They know us. They understand.

Coming back to Crêpes. Thanks for the lovely night Anne. This one is for you :)