Batters

At its simplest, a batter is a mixture based on flour, or some other starch, that is soft enough to pour. Eggs contribute richness and help it rise; some batters also include baking powder or soda. Water makes a batter light, while milk makes it smoother and helps it to brown more quickly. A few spoonfuls of oil or melted butter enriches batters and helps prevent them from sticking. Seasoning is usually confined to salt, with sugar and liqueurs for sweet batters. Sometimes chili pepper, garlic, brandy or other pungent flavors are included in a savory batter.