AI Pancakes

I have been struggling with ChatGPT to provide actionable plans and all I get is vague nonsense that is not actionable. To try to get it to give me a method to evoke something sensible I gave it an example of the hopelessly vague type of thing it would give for the procedure to make Yorkshire Pudding along with the actual protocol that would result in Yorkshire Pudding you can eat. 

Asking it again for the protocol I was trying to get, it was similarly disappointing, so I asked it to provide what it thought was a protocol to make four pancakes. I am now publishing and will attempt to follow the protocol. 

User

That still is vague enough to be non-actionable by ordinary people as a practical matter. Let's see if you can provide instructions that are actionable and workable in an ordinary kitchen that will result in edible food. Give me the protocol, similar in form and specificity to the example I gave for Yorkshire Pudding to make four pancakes. Do it step by step in such a way that a  relative neophyte would be able to actually make the pancakes. 

ChatGPT

Certainly! Here's a detailed, step-by-step protocol to make four pancakes, designed for clarity and ease of execution, especially for someone new to cooking.

Pancake Recipe for Four Pancakes

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

A pinch of salt (about 1/4 teaspoon)

1 cup milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

Vegetable oil (for cooking)

Equipment:

1 large mixing bowl

1 whisk or fork

1 measuring cup and spoons

1 non-stick skillet or frying pan

1 spatula

1 ladle or cup for pouring batter

Instructions:

Prep Work:

Measure out all your ingredients.

Melt the butter in a small dish in the microwave (about 20-30 seconds on high) and let it cool.

Make the Pancake Batter:

In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 cup flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

In a separate container (you can use the measuring cup for ease), beat the egg lightly with a fork. Then add the 1 cup of milk and the melted butter. Mix well.

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using your whisk or fork, mix until you have a smooth batter. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps.

Heat the Pan:

Place your skillet on the stove over medium heat. Let it heat up for about 1-2 minutes. Add a small amount of vegetable oil (about 1 teaspoon) to lightly coat the bottom.

Cook the Pancakes:

Once the skillet is hot, use the ladle or cup to pour batter onto the skillet, forming pancakes that are about 4 inches in diameter.

Cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side. Look for bubbles to form on the top and for the edges to look set.

Use the spatula to carefully flip each pancake. Cook for another 1-2 minutes on the second side, or until golden brown.

Serving:

Transfer the cooked pancakes to a plate. Continue with the remaining batter. You should have enough for about four pancakes.

Serve hot with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, butter, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Tips for Success:

Getting the Right Temperature: If your pancakes are browning too quickly but aren’t cooked through, lower the heat. If they’re taking too long to cook, increase the heat slightly.

Batter Consistency: If the batter seems too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour.

By following these specific steps and using the listed equipment and ingredients, even a kitchen novice should be able to make delicious pancakes. Enjoy your cooking!

User

I am going to follow that protocol IRL right now. Any final tips?

ChatGPT

Great choice! Here are a few final tips to ensure your pancakes turn out perfectly:

Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough pancakes.

Check for the Right Heat: Before pouring the batter, test your skillet’s readiness by sprinkling a few drops of water on it. If the drops dance around and evaporate, the skillet is hot enough.

First Pancake Experiment: The first pancake is often a test of skillet temperature. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; adjust the heat as needed for the next ones.

Flipping Technique: Wait until you see bubbles forming and popping on the surface before flipping. Slide the spatula gently under the pancake, lift slightly to check if it's golden brown, and then flip it confidently in one smooth motion.

Keep Them Warm: If you’re making a batch and want to keep them warm, preheat your oven to 200°F (about 95°C) and place the finished pancakes on an oven-safe plate or baking sheet in the oven until you’re ready to serve.

Freshness Matters: For the fluffiest pancakes, ensure your baking powder is not past its expiration date, as it loses effectiveness over time.

Customize Your Toppings: Pancakes are versatile. Feel free to experiment with various toppings like fruits, nuts, chocolate chips, or even savory options like cheese and herbs.

Enjoy the process and your delicious pancakes!