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Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes

Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes

Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes are crispy, golden, and comforting treats with a fluffy interior and a crunchy exterior. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they deliver classic home-cooked flavors perfect for any meal or snack. This easy recipe guides you through making these nostalgic cakes that bring wholesome, delicious comfort to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups starchy potatoes (Russets or Yukon Gold), peeled and grated
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely grated or minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour/gluten-free flour for variations)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons oil or butter (or a mix) for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and finely grate the potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible to ensure crispiness.
  2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined into a sticky mixture ready for shaping.
  3. Shape the Potato Cakes: Form the mixture into small patties about 2 to 3 inches wide and half an inch thick. Keep them relatively thin for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
  4. Heat the Pan: Heat oil or a combination of butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The fat should sizzle gently when the cakes are added, without burning.
  5. Fry Until Golden: Place the potato cakes in the skillet with space between each. Fry each side for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping gently with a spatula.
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove the cakes from the skillet, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, and serve immediately for best texture and taste.

Notes

  • Remove moisture thoroughly from grated potatoes to avoid soggy cakes.
  • Mix ingredients just until combined to maintain a light texture; overmixing can cause dense cakes.
  • Use medium heat for frying to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
  • Choose fresh starchy potatoes for best results.
  • Season generously to enhance natural flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato cakes, crispy potato patties, old-fashioned recipe, home cooking, starchy potatoes, snack, breakfast, side dish, comfort food