Crispy potato pancakes are a beloved comfort food known for their golden crust and tender interior. Made with simple ingredients and cooked to crunchy perfection, they’re quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy them as a snack, side dish, or hearty breakfast favorite.
1. How to Make
To make crispy potato pancakes, grate potatoes, squeeze out excess moisture, mix with seasonings, then pan-fry until golden and crunchy on both sides.
2. Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Optional Ingredients:
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika or chili flakes
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Sour cream or yogurt for serving
3. Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
4. Step-by-step Instructions
- Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean cloth.
- Transfer to a bowl and add egg, flour, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Mix well.
- Heat oil in a wide skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan and flatten gently.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining mixture.
5. Servings
- Serves: 3–4 people
6. Presentation & Decoration
Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Garnish with chopped herbs for a fresh, inviting finish.
7. Best Time to Eat
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a crispy evening snack.
8. Portion Guide
- Snack portion: 2 pancakes per person
- Meal portion: 3–4 pancakes per person
9. Storage & Shelf Life
Best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in a pan or oven to restore crispiness. Freezing is not recommended.
10. Allergy Guide
- Contains eggs
- Contains gluten if flour is used (use cornstarch for gluten-free)
- Dairy-free
These crispy potato pancakes deliver irresistible crunch and comforting flavor, making them an easy, golden favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I make potato pancakes extra crispy?
The key is removing as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes and onion. Squeezing them well and frying in hot oil ensures a crisp, golden texture.
2. Can I make potato pancakes without flour?
Yes, you can use cornstarch instead of flour for binding. This also makes the recipe gluten-free while keeping the pancakes crispy.
3. What oil is best for frying potato pancakes?
Neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or sunflower oil, work best for even frying and crisp results.
4. Can I store and reheat potato pancakes?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven rather than the microwave to restore crispiness.
5. Are crispy potato pancakes suitable for breakfast or snacks?
Absolutely. They’re versatile enough to enjoy as a hearty breakfast, brunch side, or a satisfying evening snack.
Emily is a devoted wife, mother, and passionate home cook who finds joy in creating comforting meals straight from her kitchen. When she’s not busy managing the household or helping out on her husband’s farm, she spends her time baking delicious treats that have become a favorite among friends and neighbors. Emily believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. Whether it’s a freshly baked pie or a hearty home-cooked dinner, her love for cooking shines through in every dish she makes.