Kartupelu Kuka with Mushroom Sauce

This delightful recipe combines the comforting taste of potato pancakes with a rich, flavorful mushroom sauce. The combination of crispy potato cakes and creamy mushroom sauce creates a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. Made from simple, wholesome ingredients, this dish brings a touch of Latvian tradition to your table. The process of making kartupelu kuka is quite straightforward, involving the preparation of a creamy potato and carrot mixture that is then formed into pancakes and either fried or baked. The highlight of the dish is undoubtedly the mushroom sauce, which is made with fresh mushrooms, onions, and sour cream for a velvety finish. Perfect for any occasion, kartupelu kuka pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or can be enjoyed on its own as a rich, filling main course. This recipe is ideal for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, offering both texture and flavor that are sure to please. In creating this dish, you’ll engage in a culinary tradition that celebrates the simplicity and richness of natural flavors. It’s a perfect way to introduce friends and family to the comforting tastes of Eastern Europe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

10 potatoes
2 eggs
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons starch
Salt
Pepper

For Carrot Mixture:

2 carrots
1 onion
100 g butter
Salt
Pepper

For Mushroom Sauce:

100 g butter
1 onion
Sun-dried porcini mushrooms
10 champignons
1 tablespoon flour
0.2 liters sour cream

Preparation Time

120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes until they are soft and tender.
Create the Carrot Mixture: While the potatoes are boiling, grate the carrots and finely chop the onions. Sauté the onions in a bit of oil until they are soft and translucent. Add carrots, season with salt and pepper, and any desired spices.
Mix Ingredients: Combine the sautéed carrots and onions with butter, stirring well to make a uniform mixture.
Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done, drain the water and return them to the heat briefly to evaporate any remaining moisture. Mash them until smooth.
Combine Mixtures: Allow the mashed potatoes to cool, then incorporate eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and starch. Beat the mixture using a mixer for a smooth consistency.
Form Pancakes: Mix the potato and carrot mixtures. Moisten your hands with cold water to handle the sticky dough, shaping it into small patties.
Cooking Options: These pancakes can be cooked on a pan or baked. If baking, preheat the oven to 210–220°C. Place the pancakes on a baking sheet, turn them after 15–20 minutes and continue baking for 30–40 minutes.
Prepare the Mushroom Sauce: Sauté chopped onions in butter until soft. Soak the mushrooms in a glass of water until tender, then dice and add to the onions, incorporating their soaking liquid.
Thicken the Sauce: Add a tablespoon of flour to the mushroom mixture, stirring to combine well.
Finish the Sauce: Gradually mix in sour cream, seasoning with pepper and additional spices as desired.
Serve: Plate the potato pancakes with a generous serving of mushroom sauce on top.

Tips

For easy handling: Wet hands with cold water before shaping the dough.
Flavor enhancements: Add herbs like dill or parsley to the sauce for a fresh aroma.
To achieve crispy pancakes: Ensure to preheat the oil in the pan or oven before cooking.

Nutritions

Calories: 350 per serving
Protein: 9g
Fats: 25g
Carbs: 22g

Variations

Vegan Alternative: Substitute eggs with flaxseeds mixed with water and use plant-based cream for the sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour alternatives for the dough and sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or pickled vegetables to cut through the richness of the dish.
Garnish with chopped herbs for added flavor and presentation.

Best Places

Cafe Lido - Traditional Latvian cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Location: Krāsotāju iela 12, Riga, Latvia.
Tris Draugi - Offers a hearty menu with local favorites. Location: Aleksandra Čaka iela 84, Riga, Latvia.
Vincent's Restaurant - Fine dining with an innovative approach to traditional dishes. Location: Elizabetes iela 19, Riga, Latvia.
1221 Restaurant - Known for its historic setting and modern cuisine. Location: Jauniela 16, Riga, Latvia.
Delisnacks Tapas Bar & Restaurant - Combines international flair with local flavors. Location: Elizabetes iela 31, Riga, Latvia.
Alus Arsenāls - Offers a wide range of local beer and hearty meals. Location: Jauniela 15, Riga, Latvia.
St. Petrus Restaurant & Grill - European cuisine with a twist, perfect for special occasions. Location: Skārņu iela 9, Riga, Latvia.
Kolonade. Mūsu stāsti - Excels in fine dining with a picturesque view. Location: Brīvības bulvāris 26, Riga, Latvia.
Salve Restaurant - Celebrates Baltic history with a diverse menu. Location: Rātslaukums 5, Riga, Latvia.
Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs - A vibrant spot for authentic Latvian dishes with live music. Location: Peldu iela 19, Riga, Latvia.