Make sure it's just eggs you break on Shrove Tuesday

With Shrove Tuesday tomorrow, (5 February) many people up and down the country will be making pancakes. Would you believe that according to ROSPA statistics over 40,000 people injure themselves while cooking every year; around 3,000 of those injuries involve frying pans!

Some basic first aid knowledge can minimise the risk of permanent injury so by following the recipe and steps below, St John Ambulance will help you to have a delicious and safe Shrove Tuesday.

Ingredients

• 110g plain flour
• A pinch of salt
• 2 large eggs
• 200ml milk with 75ml water
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Extra butter for cooking

Step one

First sieve the flour and the salt into a large mixing bowl.  Make a well in the flour and break the two eggs into it.  Be careful that you don't slip on an egg and sprain your ankle. If you do then follow RICE: Rest, Ice, Elevation and Compression.  If the pain is severe or if you suspect a fracture, then go to hospital.

Step two

Whisk the mixture with a fork or electric whisk, beginning to incorporate flour from around the edges as you do so. Gradually add small quantities of the milk and water mixture, ignoring any lumps. If the batter mixture accidentally goes into your eye, try to wash the eye out with clean water or by using a sterile eyewash and seek further advice if necessary.

Step three

Once all the milk and water has been added, use a spatula around the edges of the bowl then whisk until it is the consistency of single cream.

Step four

When you are ready to cook the pancakes add two tablespoons of melted butter to the batter and stir in well. Add a little melted butter to a frying pan and heat it on medium until it is hot.

Step five

Add one-two tablespoons of batter at a time and tip the pan so that the base is evenly covered with batter.  If you accidentally catch your hand on the frying pan and have a small superficial burn, run the affected area under cold water for at least ten minutes and cover with a sterile dressing.

Step six

Cook the pancake until the bottom is golden brown, then flip or turn the pancake over and fry for a further minute.

Step seven

Place on a plate and eat straight away, serving with lemon and sugar or fruit and cream. Unfortunately, if you haven't followed the recipe properly and end up with food poisoning make sure you drink plenty of fluids and call a doctor for advice.