An Irresistible Classic: Best Potato Pancakes Ever
There’s something truly special about biting into a perfectly crisp potato pancake. This traditional German recipe brings comfort to any table, whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner or a hearty winter meal. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in grating the potatoes, not shredding them, and ensuring every drop of moisture is squeezed out. It might take a bit of effort, but when you taste the result, you’ll know it’s worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This potato pancake recipe is a delightful blend of crispy edges and soft, flavorful centers. The combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and simple seasonings creates a satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with both applesauce and sour cream. Whether served as a light meal or alongside roast chicken, these pancakes are sure to become a favorite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large, deep skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Grater
- Kitchen towel
Ingredients
- 4 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 5 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, well beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and crisp, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the bacon slices, crumble them, and set aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, eggs, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the crumbled bacon and cheddar cheese.
- Form the mixture into 8 patties.
- Heat the bacon drippings over medium heat and pan-fry the patties in the drippings until crisp on each side, about 4 minutes per side.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to thoroughly squeeze out any excess water from the potatoes using a kitchen towel. This step ensures your pancakes fry up beautifully crisp. If your mixture feels too wet, don’t hesitate to add a bit more flour until it holds together well.
Additional Tips and Variations
For a twist, try adding finely chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley to the mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add a spicy kick with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these potato pancakes is rich in flavor and provides a good source of protein and calcium from the cheese and bacon. Keep in mind the calorie count will depend on the size of your patties and the amount of drippings used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these pancakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
What can I serve with potato pancakes?
These pancakes pair wonderfully with applesauce, sour cream, or alongside a main dish like roasted chicken or beef.
Conclusion
These potato pancakes are not just a dish; they’re an experience. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they offer a taste of tradition with every bite. We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts and variations. Bon appétit!