Potato Pancakes with Cheese and Dill

Potato pancakes with cheese and dill are a delightful, crispy treat that makes for a satisfying meal, whether it's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This dish is rich in flavor, combining the earthy taste of potatoes, the sharpness of cheddar, and the subtle notes of dill and garlic. Ideal for cheese lovers, the addition of 'Džiuga' cheese adds a unique twist to the traditional potato pancake. The recipe is simple, yet offers a gourmet touch suitable for any occasion. Perfectly golden when cooked, these pancakes can be served with a variety of accompaniments such as smoked salmon or crispy bacon. They are easy to prepare in less than an hour, making them a quick fix for the busy cook. A crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, they can be adapted to suit different dietary requirements. Whether you're looking for a comforting dish or a fancy appetizer, these potato pancakes are sure to impress. Enjoy this versatile dish that embodies both comfort and sophistication.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 potatoes
1 small onion
1 egg
50 g grated 'Džiuga' cheese
50 g Cheddar cheese
A handful of dill
2 cloves of garlic

Additional Ingredients

1 tbsp of flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total time: 40 minutes (Preparation: 20 minutes, Cooking: 20 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes and onion. Grate them finely into a large mixing bowl. Grate the 'Džiuga' and Cheddar cheeses into the same bowl.
Mince the Dill and Garlic: Finely chop the dill and crush the garlic cloves. Add them to the bowl with the grated ingredients.
Add the Flour and Egg: Sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Crack in one egg, and then season with a pinch of salt and a dash of freshly ground black pepper.
Mix Everything Together: Using a wooden spoon or your hands, thoroughly combine the mixture until it is evenly blended. The mix should hold together when squeezed.
Heat the Oil: Preheat a skillet over medium heat with a generous amount of oil for frying. Ensure the oil is hot enough by dropping a small spoonful of the mixture into it; it should sizzle.
Shape the Pancakes: With your hands, form small patties from the mixture, roughly the size of your palm.
Fry the Pancakes: Place the patties gently into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes or until they become golden brown and crispy.
Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pancakes from the skillet and drain excess oil on a paper towel.
Serve with Your Choice of Topping: Arrange the pancakes on a serving platter. Top with thin slices of smoked salmon for an elegant touch, or with crispy fried bacon for a heartier option.

Tips

Substitutions: You can substitute 'Džiuga' cheese with Parmesan or Grana Padano if unavailable.
Consistency: If the mixture is too loose, add more flour gradually until it binds.
Crispiness: Ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid soggy pancakes; they should start sizzling as soon as they hit the pan.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving
Protein: 9g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour.
Vegan: Replace cheese with vegan cheese, the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water), and ensure other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette pairs well with these pancakes.
Yogurt Dip: Serve with a herbed yogurt dressing or sour cream for added flavor.
Breakfast: Perfect alongside scrambled eggs or as part of a brunch spread.

Best Places

The Pancake House - Known for its wide variety of pancakes and comfortable atmosphere. Location: 123 Maple Street, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Cheese & Pancake Delight - Offers an extensive menu featuring creative cheese-infused pancakes. Location: 45 Queen's Road, London, UK.
Cafe Kartoffel - Specializes in European potato dishes and a unique pancake selection. Location: Hauptstrasse 17, Berlin, Germany.
The Breakfast Club - A quirky spot with exceptional potato pancakes. Location: 12 Silver Lane, New York, USA.
Les Crêpes du Monde - Combines French and local flavors in their pancakes. Location: 19 Rue de Paris, Paris, France.
The Cheese Haven - Where cheese meets innovative pancake creations. Location: 78 Gourmet Ave, Melbourne, Australia.
Nordic Brunch - Renowned for their simple yet delicious Nordic-inspired pancakes. Location: Strandvägen 8, Stockholm, Sweden.
Pancake Paradise - Offers a tropical twist with exotic pancakes. Location: 2 Coconut Blvd, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.
Casa de las Pancakes – Specializes in Latin-inspired flavors. Location: Avenida de la Luna 34, Mexico City, Mexico.
Charming Streetside Café - A local favorite with a quaint atmosphere and delicious pancakes. Location: 48 Viena Street, Vienna, Austria.