Potato pancakes, also known as latkes, are a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. These savory pancakes are a wonderful combination of crispy edges and soft, flavorful insides, making them an irresistible treat for any meal. My first memory of potato pancakes dates back to a family brunch where my grandmother would whip up a batch in her well-worn cast-iron skillet. The sizzling sound of the pancakes cooking and the tantalizing aroma that filled the kitchen are memories I cherish deeply. Today, I continue the tradition, and I’m excited to share this delightful recipe with you.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
2 eggs
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 large russet potatoes
1 medium onion
½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the Onion and Potatoes: Begin by peeling 4 large russet potatoes and 1 medium onion. Slice them into manageable pieces that will fit into your food processor. This step is essential for ensuring the vegetables are evenly grated.
Grate the Potatoes and Onion: Add the sliced potatoes and onion into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is grated. The consistency should be similar to shredded hash browns. This method saves time and effort compared to grating by hand.
Strain the Mixture: Transfer the grated potato and onion mixture to a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible, then let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the potato starch to settle. Discard the liquid but keep the starch at the bottom of the bowl as it helps bind the pancakes.
Mix the Batter
Combine Ingredients: Place the strained potato and onion mixture back into a large mixing bowl. Add 2 beaten eggs, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. The eggs and flour act as binders, holding the mixture together during frying. Mix until everything is well blended. The batter should be thick but not too dry.
Cook the Pancakes
Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet on the stove and heat over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and allow it to get hot. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking, which is key for achieving a crispy exterior.
Fry the Pancakes: Using a spoon or a small ladle, scoop a portion of the potato mixture and place it into the hot skillet. Gently flatten it with the back of the spoon to form a pancake. Cook each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Drain Excess Oil: Once the pancakes are golden brown and crispy, transfer them onto a clean plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This step keeps the pancakes from becoming greasy.
Repeat: Continue frying the remaining batter in batches, adding more oil to the skillet as needed. Make sure to keep an eye on the heat to maintain consistent cooking.
Serve the Pancakes
Serve Immediately: Potato pancakes are best served hot and crispy. They can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings such as sour cream, applesauce, or chives. The contrast between the crispy pancakes and the cool, creamy toppings is simply delightful.
Variations and Substitutions
Potato pancakes are versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or potato starch to make the pancakes gluten-free.
Herb Addition: Add fresh or dried herbs like dill, parsley, or chives to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Cheesy Pancakes: Mix in a handful of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or parmesan, for cheesy potato pancakes.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños to the batter for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Variations: Incorporate other grated vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or carrots to add more color and nutrients.
Conclusion
Potato pancakes are a timeless dish that combines simplicity with deliciousness. The crispy edges and tender interiors make them a favorite at any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, appetizer, or main course, these pancakes are sure to impress. Their versatility allows for endless customization, ensuring that they can be tailored to meet any taste preference. Enjoy making these delightful potato pancakes and sharing them with family and friends, creating new memories with each bite. Happy cooking!