Potato pancakes

Potato pies - a delicious and comforting recipe

Who doesn't love a warm, golden pie filled with potatoes and cheese?! Potato pies are a wonderful choice for lunch or dinner, but they can also be a savory appetizer or a snack that delights everyone. This recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, inspired by mountainous regions where simple ingredients are transformed into delicious and nourishing dishes. Potato pies are often served with a glass of sour milk, a combination that emphasizes the flavor of the dish and adds a touch of freshness to the meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Basic ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes
- 2 eggs
- 1 large onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 150 g flour
- 200 g feta cheese (or another salty cheese)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste, depending on how salty the feta is)

Preparing potato pies:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes and onion. Use a grater with small holes to grate the potatoes and onion. Do not squeeze out the juice; let it combine with the other ingredients, as it will add moisture and flavor to the pies.

2. Mincing the garlic: Take the garlic cloves and crush them well, either with a mortar or with a knife. The garlic will give an intense and aromatic flavor to the dish, so don't skimp on it!

3. Grating the cheese: Grate the feta cheese on a large-holed grater. It will easily integrate into the mixture, providing a creamy texture to the pies.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, onion, garlic, cheese, beaten eggs, flour, and paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste, being careful with the salt quantity, especially if the feta is salty. Mix well until the mixture becomes homogeneous.

5. Resting the mixture: Let the mixture rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the ingredients to combine better and will help achieve a more pleasant texture.

6. Cooking the pies: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add just a few drops of oil. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and form patties that you will place in the skillet. Fry them on each side for 4-5 minutes, or until they become golden and crispy. Make sure to turn them carefully using a spatula.

7. Serving the pies: Once the pies are fried, remove them to a plate or a heat-resistant dish. They are delicious served warm, but can also be reheated in the oven without losing their flavor.

Interesting variations: If you want to add a unique touch to your pies, you can include various ingredients such as herbs (dill or parsley) or even leftover vegetables from other dishes. You can also use mozzarella cheese for a softer texture.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can potato pies be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the raw or cooked pies. If you choose to freeze them raw, make sure to place them on a tray so they don’t stick together, then transfer them to an airtight container.
- What can they be served with? Potato pies pair perfectly with sour milk, yogurt, or sour cream. Additionally, a fresh summer salad will ideally complement this dish.

Nutritional benefits: Potato pies are a good source of carbohydrates, and feta cheese brings essential proteins and calcium. Consuming potatoes contributes to a balanced diet, providing energy and necessary nutrients. The flour in the mixture adds fiber, especially if you opt for a whole grain version.

With each bite of these delicious pies, you will feel not only the taste but also the warmth of culinary tradition. Enjoy them with loved ones, sharing the joy of cooking and family meals!