Today, Tuesday 21 February, is Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday.

The expression 'Shrove Tuesday' comes from the word shrive, meaning absolve.

Shrove Tuesday, Pancake Tuesday or Pancake Day is the day before Ash Wednesday, observed in many Christian countries through participating in confession and absolution, the ritual burning of the previous year's Holy Week palms, finalising one's Lenten sacrifice, as well as eating pancakes and other sweets.

The festival is a traditionally Christian one. St John's Church. Image credit: Nub News.

On Wednesday 22 February, Lent will begin, with individuals giving up a vice (often a sweet treat) for 40 days. This makes Pancake Day the perfect day to indulge before giving up your favourite treat.

Pancakes are served in a variety of ways around the world, as crêpes, Scotch pancakes, American-style pancakes, and even fluffy Japanese pancakes.

Pancakes are usually enjoy for breakfast or as a dessert after the evening meal, commonly with sugar and lemon.

However, households also enjoy pancakes with strawberry, banana, chocolate spread, jam, cream, syrup and other indulgent toppings.

What is the most decadent pancake topping you have ever had?

Let us know and send your pancake pics to [email protected].