Experience the crispy goodness of Classic Potato Pancakes with this authentic recipe. Whether enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or a hearty breakfast, these golden brown pancakes are a comforting treat that brings warmth to any table. Learn how to make potato pancakes that are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare your Classic Potato Pancakes:
- 2 ½ pounds Russet potatoes, or any starchy potato, peeled and grated very finely
- 1 yellow onion, grated very fine
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or canola oil)
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create delicious Classic Potato Pancakes:
- Prepare Potatoes and Onion: Peel the potatoes and grate them using a fine grater. Grate the onion finely as well. Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with eggs, salt, and flour. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Pancakes: Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and carefully place it into the hot oil, flattening it slightly with the back of the spoon to form a pancake shape. Repeat, leaving space between each pancake to flip easily.
- Fry Until Golden: Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them over halfway through cooking.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite toppings.
Cook’s Notes
- Potato Preparation: Ensure potatoes are grated finely to achieve a crispy texture. Squeezing out excess moisture helps in achieving crispy pancakes.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat to fry pancakes evenly without burning.
- Batch Cooking: Fry pancakes in batches, adding more oil as needed, to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
Variations
Explore different flavors and textures with these potato pancake variations:
- Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheese like cheddar or Parmesan to the potato mixture for a cheesy upgrade.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, chives, or dill for added freshness and flavor.
- Sweet Potato Version: Substitute part or all of the potatoes with grated sweet potatoes for a sweeter variation.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly option, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Use avocado oil or olive oil for frying, which are healthier options compared to vegetable oil.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs, omit the flour altogether or use a small amount of almond flour. Ensure potatoes are thoroughly drained of excess moisture before mixing to minimize starch content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I prepare the potato mixture ahead of time? A: Yes, you can grate the potatoes and onion ahead of time, but it’s best to mix in the eggs, salt, and flour just before frying to maintain freshness and texture.
Q: How do I store leftover potato pancakes? A: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven to maintain crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze potato pancakes? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked potato pancakes. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Q: What can I serve with potato pancakes? A: Enjoy potato pancakes with sour cream, applesauce, smoked salmon, or as a side dish with meats and salads for a complete meal.
Classic Potato Pancakes are a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious treat, these crispy pancakes are sure to please. Easy to make and versatile in serving options, they remain a favorite among families and food enthusiasts alike.
