Potato pancake

Potato pancakes - A simple and healthy delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

In search of healthy and delicious dishes, I discovered the recipe for potato pancakes, a perfect option for those who love good food but want to avoid meat and fried foods. This dish is not only filling and tasty, but it's also an excellent choice for a balanced diet. Potato pancakes can be served as a main dish or as a side, whether you combine them with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 medium/small potatoes (about 600g)
- 2 green onions (or one regular onion, if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sunflower oil for a more neutral taste)
- Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste

Useful tips about the ingredients:

- Potatoes: Choose good quality potatoes, preferably starchy ones that crumble easily when boiled. They will transform into delicious and fluffy pancakes.
- Green onion: This adds an aromatic flavor and a note of freshness to the dish. If you don't have green onions on hand, you can use regular onion, but it's best to sauté it a bit before adding it to the mixture.
- Spices: Paprika not only gives a beautiful color to the pancakes but also provides a pleasant aroma. You can experiment with other spices, such as garlic powder or herbs.

Preparation technique:

1. Boiling the potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes well. Place them in a pot with cold water and add a little salt. Boil them in their skins for about 15-20 minutes, until they are almost fully cooked. Check them with a knife – they should be tender but not completely soft. This is an essential step to avoid unpleasant surprises, such as undercooked potatoes inside.

2. Cooling and peeling: After the potatoes are boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, peel them. This step may seem trivial, but it’s important not to rush – hot potatoes can be very difficult to handle.

3. Grating: Use a large grater to shred the potatoes. This is the moment when the texture of the pancakes will start to take shape. Make sure to grate the potatoes evenly to achieve a homogeneous consistency.

4. Adding onion and spices: In a bowl, mix the grated potatoes with the chopped green onions, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices. This is a perfect time to add a splash of olive oil for extra flavor.

5. Cooking the pancakes: In a heated non-stick pan, add the oil and let it warm up. Pour the potato mixture into the pan and press it down well with a spatula, forming an even pancake. Round the edges for a nice appearance. Fry for 3-4 minutes until the pancake turns golden.

6. Flipping the pancake: Use a plate to flip the pancake. Place the plate on top of the pan and carefully turn the pancake over. Let it fry on the other side for 3-4 minutes until it gets a nice color.

Serving and variations:

These potato pancakes are delicious served warm, alongside fresh tomatoes, coleslaw, or light yogurt-based sauces. You can sprinkle crumbled cheese on top before frying, or even fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

These potato pancakes are a good source of carbohydrates, and green onions provide vitamins and antioxidants. Each serving has about 250-300 calories, depending on the oil used. It's a fiber-rich dish that contributes to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
Yes, you can incorporate grated carrots, zucchini, or even squash to add more flavor and nutrients.

2. What else can I use instead of olive oil?
Sunflower oil is a good alternative, but you can also try melted butter for a richer taste.

3. Can I freeze the pancakes?
Yes, they can be frozen. Remove them from the pan and let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer bag. You can fry them again directly from the freezer.

These potato pancakes will surely become a favorite in your kitchen, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional dishes. Try them and enjoy every bite!