Check out this Polish potato pancake recipe
Known as placki ziemniaczane, Polish potato pancakes are a cherished vegetarian dish with roots in Poland. These savory pancakes have been a part of Polish culinary tradition for centuries, providing a simple yet satisfying eggless option. Typically served as either a side or main dish, they boast crispy edges and soft centers. Let's embark on the journey to master these delightful pancakes!
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare Polish potato pancakes, you will need four large potatoes, one medium onion, two tablespoons of all-purpose flour (for binding), one teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste), half a teaspoon of black pepper (adjust to taste), and oil for frying. These ingredients are easily accessible and make this dish not only delicious but also straightforward to prepare.
Preparing your potatoes
Begin by peeling the potatoes and onion. Then, use the fine holes of a grater for a smooth batter texture. It's vital to remove excess moisture to ensure crispiness. Achieve this by enclosing the grated mix in a clean towel and squeezing firmly over a sink. This step is crucial for creating the perfect consistency in your potato pancakes.
Creating the batter
Place your dried potato and onion shreds into a sizable bowl. Stir in two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of ground black pepper. Combine these ingredients well to form a uniform batter. The addition of flour is crucial as it acts as a binder, ensuring the pancakes maintain their shape while they cook without using eggs.
Frying the pancakes
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, spoon portions of your potato batter into the skillet, flattening them with the back of your spoon to form thin pancakes about four inches in diameter. Fry each pancake until golden brown on both sides, which should take about three to four minutes per side depending on thickness.
Serving suggestions
After frying, transfer the potato pancakes to paper towels to drain excess oil. They are traditionally enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce. Yet, feel free to customize with toppings that suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether it's a sprinkle of herbs or a vegan condiment, make each pancake an expression of your culinary preference.