There is something truly comforting about homemade potato pancakes, and this Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe is the perfect example. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor from simple, wholesome ingredients, these pancakes bring a smile with every bite. Whether you’re sharing them at breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this recipe promises to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, transforming humble potatoes into something delightfully special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how just a handful of straightforward ingredients can come together to create such a marvelous dish. Each element contributes its own magic, from the starchiness of russet potatoes that give structure, to the eggs and flour that bind everything perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated: Their starchiness is key for crispiness and that perfect golden color.
- 1 small onion, grated: Adds subtle sweetness and a gentle zing.
- 2 large eggs: These provide the binding power that holds the pancakes together.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps to absorb moisture and maintain shape.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Lightens the texture for a tender bite.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a tiny kick of warmth.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional): Introduces a hint of savory depth if you like a little extra seasoning.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brings fresh, bright notes and color.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying): The secret to that irresistible crispy crust.
- Sour cream or applesauce (for serving, optional): Classic accompaniments that elevate each bite.
How to Make Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Onions
Start by peeling and grating the potatoes and your onion straight into a bowl or onto a clean kitchen towel. The trick here is to squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible using the towel or cheesecloth. This step is crucial because it ensures your Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe will turn out crispy instead of soggy.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onions with the eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Stir everything until the mixture is thoroughly combined. This mix is what forms the body of your pancakes, so give it a good mix to ensure even seasoning and texture.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom. The oil needs to be hot enough so that when you add the batter, it sizzles immediately. This immediate sizzle is what helps develop that enviable golden crust on each pancake.
Step 4: Fry the Pancakes
Using a spoon, drop about two tablespoons of the potato mixture into the skillet and press it down gently to flatten into a round pancake shape. Fry these for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until each side boasts a beautiful golden brown color. Be patient and flip carefully—this keeps them intact and perfectly crispy.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the pancakes onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This small step keeps your Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe light and crisp. Serve them hot for the best experience.
How to Serve Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe
Garnishes
To truly enhance your Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe, I love adding a dollop of cool sour cream or a spoonful of sweet applesauce on the side. Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top not only adds a pop of color but a fresh herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with fresh green salads, sautéed vegetables, or even a warm bowl of hearty soup. For brunch, consider serving with smoked salmon and a squeeze of lemon for a touch of elegance. The versatility of these pancakes makes them a wonderful complement to so many meal ideas.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make a meal that wows, try stacking your Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe like mini towers, layered with apple slices, crème fraîche, and a sprinkle of chives. You could also turn them into sliders with a bit of pulled pork or crispy bacon tucked inside. Presentation is a fun way to take this classic and make it your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra pancakes (which is a good problem to have), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to three days and still taste fantastic with a quick reheat.
Freezing
Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe leftovers freeze beautifully. Arrange the cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can keep for up to 2 months, making it easy to have a homemade treat ready whenever you crave it.
Reheating
For best results, reheat pancakes in a hot skillet with just a little oil to revive that crispy exterior. A toaster oven also works well if you want a hands-off approach that still yields a crispy finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their high starch content, which helps achieve that crispy exterior. Other potatoes like Yukon Gold can be used but may result in a slightly less crispy texture.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture and better color, but if you prefer a more rustic feel, leaving the skins on is perfectly fine.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or potato starch. Your Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe will still turn out delicious.
Why is it important to squeeze out the moisture?
Removing excess water from the grated potatoes ensures the pancakes fry up crispy instead of soggy, which is essential for achieving that classic golden crust.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil is a great choice because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but you can also use canola or sunflower oil for similar results.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe inspires you to get into the kitchen and make something warm and comforting today. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create pancakes that are crispy, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a fun dinner treat, these pancakes are sure to become one of your favorite go-to recipes to share and enjoy with friends and family.
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Golden Potato Pancakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These golden potato pancakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, made with grated russet potatoes and onions, lightly seasoned and fried to perfection. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting side dish, served with sour cream or applesauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Frying
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For Serving (Optional)
- Sour cream or applesauce
Instructions
- Remove excess moisture. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, and squeeze out any excess moisture to help the pancakes become crispy during cooking.
- Mix ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Heat oil. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan to ensure proper frying.
- Form pancakes. Once the oil is hot, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture into the pan per pancake. Press gently to flatten into round shapes.
- Fry pancakes. Fry the pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip using a spatula.
- Drain excess oil. Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve. Serve the golden potato pancakes hot with sour cream or applesauce, if desired. Enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Removing excess potato moisture is key to crispiness.
- Adjust frying time and heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Potato pancakes can be kept warm in a low oven while frying batches.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright flavor but is optional.
- Sour cream and applesauce both complement the savory pancakes nicely.
