Potato pancakes, also known as latkes or draniki, are a beloved comfort food that transcends cultures. These crispy, golden-brown cakes are made with simple ingredients and can be whipped up in just a few minutes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a snack, they can be enjoyed plain or topped with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will soon become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 large potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or potato flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes and Onion:
- Peel the potatoes and onion. Grate them using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with the egg, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should hold together but not be overly wet.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of the batter into the pan; it should sizzle immediately.
- Form the Pancakes:
- Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop out a portion of the potato mixture and flatten it slightly into a pancake shape. Carefully place it into the hot oil. Repeat this process, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry Until Golden:
- Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Drain and Serve:
- Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of toppings, such as sour cream, applesauce, or fresh herbs.