Potato Pancakes Recipe

Here’s a classic recipe for delicious potato pancakes, also known as “latkes”:

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. Grate the Potatoes: Using a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely grated onion, beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small piece of potato into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
4. Form Pancakes: Take about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture in your hand and gently flatten it to form a pancake, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Carefully place it into the hot oil. Repeat with more potato mixture, leaving space between pancakes in the skillet.
5. Fry the Pancakes: Fry the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them halfway through cooking. Adjust the heat if necessary to maintain a steady sizzle without burning.
6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the potato pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate or a wire rack to drain excess oil.
7. Serve Warm: Serve the potato pancakes warm, optionally with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite toppings.

Tips:

• Variations: Add grated garlic, chopped herbs (like parsley or dill), or grated cheese to the potato mixture for extra flavor.
• Keep Warm: If making a large batch, you can keep the cooked pancakes warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven until ready to serve.
• Storage: Leftover pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or toaster oven.

Enjoy these crispy and comforting potato pancakes as a side dish or a main course, perfect for any meal of the day at Knoxville Campground!