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Classic Potato Pancakes Recipe

4.7 from 97 reviews

Classic potato pancakes are a crispy and savory treat made from grated russet potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour, seasoned with salt and pepper, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish or a comforting snack, these pancakes offer a delightful texture and comforting flavor that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Pancakes

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp pepper (or to taste)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes and onion: If using a food processor, peel and cube the potatoes and onion then process for about 2 minutes until the potatoes look grated with no lumps. If using a hand grater, peel and grate the potatoes and onion.
  2. Drain excess liquid: Place the grated mixture into a fine strainer or kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible into a mixing bowl.
  3. Keep the potato starch: Discard the liquid but retain the white potato starch that settles at the bottom of the bowl; it adds important texture to the pancakes.
  4. Mix the batter: Return the grated potato and onion back to the bowl with the starch. Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper, and mix thoroughly to combine.
  5. Heat the oil: Warm the vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, ensuring it is hot but not smoking.
  6. Fry the pancakes: Spoon the potato mixture into the skillet, spreading slightly to form pancakes. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
  7. Drain and serve: Transfer cooked pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and serve warm.

Notes

  • For crispier pancakes, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes and onions.
  • Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan to prevent sticking during frying.
  • You can serve potato pancakes with sour cream, applesauce, or chives for extra flavor.
  • Russet potatoes work best because of their higher starch content, which helps with binding and crispiness.

Keywords: potato pancakes, latkes, crispy potato pancakes, fried potato pancakes, Eastern European recipe