Polish Potato pancakes

Polish Potato Pancakes (Placki Ziemniaczane) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes (starchy potatoes like Russet work best)
• 1 medium onion
• 2 large eggs
• 2-3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or potato starch for a gluten-free option)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil (for frying, traditionally sunflower oil or lard)

Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Applesauce
• Chopped dill or chives

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onion:
   • Peel the potatoes and the onion.
   • Grate the potatoes and onion using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment. If the potatoes release too much water, place them in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
2. Mix the Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion. Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir everything together until it forms a thick batter. The mixture should hold together when scooped; if it’s too wet, add a little more flour.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
4. Fry the Pancakes:
   • Using a spoon or your hands, drop about 2-3 tbsp of potato mixture into the hot oil and flatten it into a round, thin pancake (about 1/4 inch thick).
   • Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
   • Remove the pancakes from the pan and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the potato pancakes hot, with a side of sour cream, applesauce, or fresh herbs like dill or chives.
   • In Poland, these pancakes are often enjoyed as a savory dish with sour cream or served sweet with applesauce.

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes

Nutritional Information (per pancake, about 12-14 pancakes):

• Calories: ~90-110 kcal
• Protein: ~2g
• Fat: ~6g
• Carbohydrates: ~10g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugars: ~1g

These crispy and golden Polish Potato Pancakes are a traditional and comforting dish that can be served savory or sweet. Enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or as a side dish with your favorite toppings!