potato pancakes

Potato pancakes, also known as latkes, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a savory breakfast or brunch item, a side dish, or even a light meal. Here's a basic recipe to make potato pancakes:

Ingredients:

- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled

- 1 small onion

- 2 eggs, lightly beaten

- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour or matzo meal

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- Vegetable oil, for frying

- Optional toppings: sour cream, applesauce, chopped chives, or smoked salmon

Instructions:

1. Grate the peeled potatoes and onion using a box grater or a food processor fitted with a grating attachment. Transfer the grated potatoes and onion to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any excess moisture.

2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with the beaten eggs, flour or matzo meal, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.

4. Once the oil is hot, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon to form pancakes.

5. Cook the potato pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

6. Transfer the cooked potato pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

7. Repeat the process with the remaining potato mixture, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

8. Serve the potato pancakes hot, topped with sour cream, applesauce, chopped chives, or smoked salmon, if desired.

Potato pancakes are best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the skillet. They are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of delicious potato flavor. Enjoy!