How To Make The Easiest Potato Pancakes

If you’re someone who loves a hearty potato dish, then this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Using frozen hash browns not only saves time but also ensures you won’t have to deal with the hassle of grating raw potatoes. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

• Potatoes: Using frozen hash browns is a time-saver. You just need to thaw them and they’re ready to go!
• Onion: Grate this in advance and store it in the refrigerator to add to your recipes whenever needed.
• Seasoning: Feel free to customize your seasonings. Apart from salt and pepper, you could also add garlic powder, Italian herbs, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
• Flour: If you’re following a specific diet, almond flour or your preferred flour can be substituted here.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of potatoes, peeled and shredded (we used frozen raw and thawed hash browns)
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil (or a combination of both)

Instructions

1. Preparation of the Potatoes

   Shred the potatoes and blot them dry with paper towels, or use thawed frozen hash browns and drain excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.

2. Mix the Ingredients

   In a bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Mix until they are well blended—this will ensure every pancake is packed with flavor!

3. Heat the Oil

   If using butter, heat the mixture over medium-low heat. It’s important to get the oil nice and hot before frying.

4. Drop and Flatten the Batter

   Using a gravy ladle or a cookie scoop (approximately 2 tablespoons), drop the batter into the hot oil. Gently flatten the tops with the back of a spatula to form nice, round pancakes.

5. Fry the Pancakes

   Cook 3 to 4 pancakes at a time in the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding as it will reduce the oil temperature and prevent crisping. Fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown.

6. Drain Excess Oil

   Once browned, drain the pancakes on paper towels to absorb any leftover oil. This will keep them crispier.

7. Serving Suggestions

   Serve warm—top with sour cream, chopped onions, fresh tomatoes, olives, or simply enjoy them as is for a delightful snack!

Serving Suggestions for Potato Pancakes

1. Applesauce: A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon can elevate simple applesauce to an excellent accompaniment.
2. Sour Cream: A generous dollop or served on the side pairs beautifully.
3. Seafood: Consider adding smoked salmon for a gourmet touch.
4. Jams: Any flavor of your choice can provide a unique twist.
5. Sausages: They can be paired with your favorites – pork, Italian, kielbasa, chorizo, or brats typically complement these pancakes well.
6. Cottage Cheese: Top these pancakes with fresh or canned fruit for a fulfilling meal.
7. Ricotta Cheese: Perfect for sweet or savory toppings, whether with fresh fruit or fruit puree.
8. Condiments: Dive into ketchup, BBQ sauce, or Asian-inspired sauces to enhance your pancakes.
9. Buffalo Sauce: Best used as a dipping sauce, it’s delightful when paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
10. Melted Cheddar: Top with your choice of cheese—sharp cheddar, Havarti, or even beer cheese for something special.

Tips For Making Perfect Potato Pancakes

• Ensure the oil is heated to the right temperature before frying; medium to medium-low heat works well.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature, allowing for crispy pancakes!
• If you opt for frying with butter, combine it with vegetable oil to prevent burning.
• Be patient; wait for the edges to set and bubbles to form before flipping the pancakes to ensure they cook through perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh potatoes rather than frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! Just make sure to grate and squeeze out the excess moisture from the fresh potatoes before mixing.

2. How do I store leftover potato pancakes?

Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet for the best results.

3. Can I freeze these pancakes?

Yes! Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag and keep for up to a month. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

4. What dipping sauces pair well with potato pancakes?

In addition to sour cream and applesauce, try ranch dressing, hot sauce, or even a yogurt-based sauce for extra flavor!

5. Are there gluten-free options for these pancakes?

Certainly! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends or almond flour to make it gluten-free.