Old fashioned potato cakes, also known as potato pancakes or latkes, are a beloved side dish that is both comforting and versatile. Made from grated potatoes mixed with simple ingredients, these crispy cakes are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for any meal. Whether you serve them with sour cream and applesauce or as a savory accompaniment to meats and vegetables, potato cakes are sure to be a hit at the table. This recipe offers a classic approach to making potato cakes that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Old Fashioned Potato Cakes
To make old fashioned potato cakes, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Sour cream and applesauce, for serving (optional)
How to Make Old Fashioned Potato Cakes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel the russet potatoes and grate them using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment.
- Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step helps to ensure that the potato cakes are crispy when fried.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely grated or minced onion, lightly beaten eggs, all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 3: Shape and Fry the Potato Cakes
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and shape it into a flat cake, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Gently place it into the hot oil.
- Repeat with the remaining potato mixture, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry the potato cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them halfway through cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the potato cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the old fashioned potato cakes hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and applesauce on the side if desired.
- Enjoy them as a delicious side dish or a hearty breakfast option.
About the Main Ingredients
Potatoes
Russet potatoes are ideal for making potato cakes because of their high starch content, which helps to bind the cakes together. Grating the potatoes and squeezing out excess moisture before mixing them with other ingredients ensures that the potato cakes fry up crispy and golden brown.
Onion
The addition of finely grated or minced onion adds flavor and a subtle sweetness to the potato cakes. It complements the potatoes well and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Eggs and Flour
Eggs and flour act as binders in this recipe, helping to hold the grated potatoes and onion together. They contribute to the texture and structure of the potato cakes, ensuring they maintain their shape during frying.
Seasonings
Salt and black pepper are used to season the potato cakes, adding depth of flavor and enhancing the savory profile of the dish. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Old fashioned potato cakes are a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast with eggs and bacon or as a side dish alongside roasted meats, these crispy potato cakes are sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can recreate this timeless recipe at home and savor its delicious flavors. Serve them hot and crispy, and watch them disappear from the plate!
