Potato Pancakes with Smoked Bacon

This delightful dish combines the comforting texture of grated potatoes with the rich, savory flavor of smoked bacon. These crispy potato pancakes are easy to prepare and can be served as a main dish or a hearty appetizer. The secret to their unique taste lies in the combination of grated raw potatoes, creamy eggs, and tangy sour cream, creating a batter that fries up golden brown and crispy. Topped with sautéed onions and crispy bacon, these pancakes offer a perfect contrast of textures. They are quick to make and perfect for any meal, whether it's a brunch or a casual dinner. Serve them hot, and you'll have a dish that's sure to satisfy. The ingredients are simple but blend together to create a flavor that's both hearty and memorable. Whether served with a dollop of sour cream or enjoyed on their own, these pancakes are a delicious way to enjoy potatoes. This dish encourages you to savor each bite while thinking of new ways to enjoy this comforting classic.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Potatoes: 1 kg, peeled and grated
• Eggs: 2 large
• Sour Cream: 2 tablespoons
• Smoked Bacon: 150 grams, diced
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped

Spices

• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes (15 minutes prep, 30 minutes cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by peeling the potatoes and grating them finely. Use a clean cloth or cheesecloth to squeeze out excess moisture, and set the liquid aside.
2. Let the potato liquid sit for a few minutes until starch settles at the bottom, then carefully drain off the liquid, keeping the starch.
3. Add the retained starch back into the grated potatoes for better binding.
4. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes with eggs and sour cream, and mix until well integrated.
5. Season the batter with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting if needed.
6. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil.
7. Add the diced smoked bacon to the pan and fry until slightly crispy.
8. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and lightly golden.
9. Remove the bacon and onion mixture from the pan and set aside for later use.
10. In the same pan, spoon a ladle full of the potato mixture to form a thin pancake.
11. Spread a small amount of the bacon and onion mixture over the pancake.
12. Add another thin layer of potato batter on top to encase the filling.
13. Fry the pancake for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown.
14. Gently flip the pancake with a spatula to cook the other side.
15. Once both sides are cooked and golden brown, remove the pancake from the pan.
16. Repeat steps 10-15 until all the batter and filling have been used.
17. Serve the pancakes hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or sour cream.
18. Enjoy these savory delights with family and friends.

Tips

• Crispy Pancakes: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve crispy edges.
• Substitutions: Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and bacon with smoked tempeh.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per pancake
• Protein: 6g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 22g

Variations

• For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, especially bacon, are certified gluten-free.
• Add grated vegetables like carrots or zucchini for additional nutrients and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with apple sauce for a sweet and savory combination.

Best Places

• The Pancake Bakery - Renowned for its wide variety of pancake flavors. Location: Prinsengracht 191, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Café du Monde - Famous for its beignets which pair nicely with any fried delicacy. Location: 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, USA.
• The Griddle Café - Offers an extensive breakfast menu including potato pancakes. Location: 7916 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
• Bacco Ristorante - High-end dining with a unique take on potato dishes. Location: 29410 Northwestern Hwy, Southfield, USA.
• Pancakes Amsterdam - A must-visit for international pancake lovers. Location: Berenstraat 38, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• The Breakfast Club - Known for a vibrant breakfast, including crispy pancakes. Location: 2-4 Rufus St, London, UK.
• Katz Orange - Offers a delightful mix of international flavors. Location: Bergstr. 22, Berlin, Germany.
• Ladurée Champs Elysées - Delicacies with a touch of elegance. Location: 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Rosenthaler Grill und Schlemmerbuffet - Perfect for traditional and international bites. Location: Rosenthaler Str. 55, Berlin, Germany.
• Zuni Café - Known for fresh, local ingredients paired with classic recipes. Location: 1658 Market St, San Francisco, USA.