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After grating the potatoes, place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is key for ensuring crispy pancakes — too much moisture will result in soggy pancakes.
3. Grate the Onion
- Grate the onion and add it to the grated potatoes. The onion adds a lovely sweetness and savory flavor to the pancakes. If you don’t love onions, you can skip this step, but it definitely adds to the traditional taste!
4. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onions with the egg, flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed. The flour helps bind the mixture, while the egg provides structure.
5. Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet, heat about 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot, but not smoking.
6. Form the Pancakes
- Scoop a heaping tablespoon of the potato mixture and form it into a small patty with your hands. Gently place the patty into the hot oil, flattening it slightly with the back of your spatula to form a pancake shape.
- Continue making the patties until the pan is full, but don’t overcrowd it — you may need to cook in batches.
7. Fry the Pancakes
- Fry the potato pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip them carefully to avoid breaking them apart.
- Once they’re golden on both sides, remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the crispy potato pancakes immediately, while they’re still hot. Top with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for a perfect balance of savory and sweet.
- These pancakes are also great with a side of smoked salmon, or you can serve them as a side dish to complement a hearty meal.
Tips for the Best Potato Pancakes:
- Potato Variety: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they have a high starch content, which helps achieve the perfect crispy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
- Don’t Skip the Draining Step: As mentioned, draining excess moisture is essential for achieving crispiness. Don’t skip this step — it’s the secret to a crispy exterior!
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add some extra seasonings to the potato mixture, such as fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill), or even a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick.
- Make-Ahead: If you’re planning to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the cooked potato pancakes. Simply let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
Why Potato Pancakes Are So Special:
Potato pancakes are a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. With their crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, they’re the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile — you can enjoy them for breakfast with eggs, as a savory side with dinner, or even as a snack with your favorite toppings.
The best part? They’re simple to make with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, these potato pancakes are sure to be a hit.
Conclusion:
Classic potato pancakes are a timeless recipe that brings comfort and joy to the table. With their crispy, golden crust and flavorful filling, they’re a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served with a dollop of sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite sauce, these pancakes are sure to please everyone. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade potato pancakes — crispy, golden, and oh-so-satisfying!
