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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
