These Cheesy Potato Pancakes are an irresistible breakfast or brunch option, combining the savory flavors of grated potatoes, melted cheese, and fresh tomatoes. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these pancakes are easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
- 17.6 oz potatoes (500 g)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3.5 oz hard cheese (100 g), grated
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Green onions, chopped (to taste)
- Herbs de Provence, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 7g
Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
1.1. Grate the Potatoes
Peel the 17.6 oz potatoes and grate them on a coarse grater. To remove excess starch and prevent the pancakes from becoming too soggy, rinse the grated potatoes under cold water.
1.2. Remove Excess Moisture
Squeeze the grated potatoes using a sieve or a clean kitchen towel to remove any remaining water. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.
1.3. Prepare the Vegetables
Finely chop 1 onion and green onions. Slice 1 tomato thinly. These will be added to the pancake batter and used as toppings.
2. Mixing it Up
2.1. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, and a beaten egg. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of Herbs de Provence to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2.2. Add the Flour
Add 2 tablespoons of flour to the potato mixture. Stir until the mixture forms a thick, batter-like consistency. The flour helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring the pancakes hold their shape during frying.
3. Frying to Perfection
3.1. Heat the Oil
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the batter is added.
3.2. Shape and Fry the Pancakes
Spoon the potato mixture into the hot oil, shaping it into pancake-sized rounds. Fry the pancakes until the bottoms are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Flip the pancakes and continue frying until both sides are crisp and golden.
3.3. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle grated cheese on top of each pancake while they are still in the pan. Cover the pan with a lid to allow the cheese to melt and the bottoms to crisp up. This should take an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Adding the Toppings
4.1. Top with Tomato and Green Onions
Once the pancakes are fully cooked, remove the lid and top each one with a slice of tomato. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for added freshness and flavor.
4.2. Finish with More Cheese
For an extra layer of indulgence, add a final sprinkle of grated cheese on top of the tomatoes. Cover the pan again briefly until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
5. Final Touches and Serving
5.1. Serve the Pancakes
Carefully remove the potato pancakes from the pan and place them on a serving plate. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
5.2. Enjoy Hot and Crispy
Serve your delicious potato pancakes hot and crispy, with a side of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce. The combination of crispy potatoes, melted cheese, and fresh tomato creates a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Tips for Success
- Consistent Thickness: Ensure the pancakes are of consistent thickness for even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the pancakes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to steam rather than fry, resulting in less crispiness.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try using different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or feta for varied flavors.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture for a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate grated carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers into the batter for added color and nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to change the flavor profile of the pancakes.
These Cheesy Potato Pancakes are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish for dinner. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and gooey cheese in every bite!
