Simple Potato Pancakes with Potato Starch

Pancakes made from potatoes are a delightful way to enjoy a savory dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. These potato pancakes are straightforward to make and offer a comforting taste with every bite. The recipe combines the earthy flavor of potatoes with a hint of salt and pepper, creating a versatile dish that can be served at breakfast or as a side dish. One of the key ingredients in this recipe is potato starch, which enhances the pancake's texture making them lighter and crispier. The preparation involves grating potatoes, mixing them with eggs and flour, and then frying until golden brown. These pancakes pair beautifully with sour cream and fresh herbs, adding a fresh contrast to their rich flavor. The recipe is both simple and flexible, allowing you to adjust spices or add toppings for extra flavor. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe ensures a delicious dish every time. Perfect for any occasion, these potato pancakes are bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 6 potatoes
• Flour - 1 tablespoon
• Eggs - 2, or you can use 1 egg
• Potato starch - 1 tablespoon

Spices

• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
  (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the potatoes. Ensure all skin is removed to prevent any bitterness.
2. Wash Thoroughly: Rinse the peeled potatoes under cold water to remove any excess starch from the surface.
3. Grate the Potatoes: Use a grater to shred the potatoes finely. A fine grate will ensure the pancakes hold together better.
4. Collect the Starch: After grating, squeeze the potatoes to remove excess liquid. Collect this liquid in a separate bowl.
5. Let the Starch Settle: Allow the collected potato liquid to sit for a few minutes until the starch settles at the bottom.
6. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, eggs, flour, and settled potato starch.
7. Season the Mixture: Add salt and pepper to the potato mixture to enhance flavor. Adjust according to taste.
8. Shape the Pancakes: Use a spoon to scoop the potato mixture, forming small patties.
9. Preheat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little oil to ensure even cooking.
10. Fry the Pancakes: Place the potato patties in the skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
11. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry one side until it turns golden brown. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
12. Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to turn the pancakes gently, cooking until both sides are uniformly crispy.
13. Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, place the pancakes on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
14. Serve Hot: The pancakes are best enjoyed warm, right out of the skillet.
15. Pair with Toppings: Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle fresh herbs like dill or parsley on top.
16. Customize Your Taste: Feel free to sprinkle a bit more salt or pepper if desired.
17. Explore Variations: For a cheesy twist, add grated cheese to the mix before frying.
18. Watch the Temperature: Keep the heat medium to prevent burning while ensuring a crispy texture.
19. Consider Add-Ins: For added flavor, mix in grated onions or garlic powder.
20. Enjoy with Family: These pancakes are perfect for sharing at any meal.

Tips

• Consistency Matters: Ensure the potato mixture is not too wet; excess liquid can prevent the pancakes from holding their shape.
• Oil Choice: Use neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying to avoid overpowering the potato flavor.
• Creative Flavors: Consider adding spices like garlic powder or paprika for additional flavor.

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative or more potato starch.
• Vegan Variation: Use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as an egg substitute.

Serving Suggestions

• Accompaniments: Serve with a side of applesauce or a fresh salad.
• Beverage Pairings: Enjoy with a light beer or a dry white wine for an added touch.

Best Places

• Café Savoy - A historical café offering a delightful take on local dishes in a vintage setting.
  Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.

• Cepes Bar - Known for its unique potato-based dishes and cocktail pairings.
  Location: Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, Paris, France.

• Potato Pancake House - Famous for its variety of flavored potato pancakes.
  Location: W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, USA.

• Bliny Dreams - Offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary pancake dishes.
  Location: Nevsky Prospect, St. Petersburg, Russia.

• Tater Tot Café - A playful twist on potato-themed dishes in a casual atmosphere.
  Location: King Street, Toronto, Canada.

• Lima Lounge - An upscale dining experience known for its innovative potato creations.
  Location: Avenida Larco, Lima, Peru.

• Spud Bar & Grill - Casual joint focusing on potato dishes with unique dips and toppings.
  Location: Oxford Street, Sydney, Australia.

• Kartoffelkeller - Emphasizes hearty potato dishes in a rustic setting.
  Location: Albrechtstrasse, Berlin, Germany.

• Mash Café - Modern café with a focus on health-conscious potato dishes.
  Location: Gangnam-daero, Seoul, South Korea.

• Tubers Together - A friendly café offering diverse potato dishes and excellent coffee.
  Location: Lygon Street, Melbourne, Australia.