Dranniki with Sour Cream and Dill
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Belarusian potato pancakes are a beloved national dish, traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold, peeled)
- 1 medium Onion(peeled)
- 2 large Eggs
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 4-6 tbsp Vegetable oil(for frying)
- 1 cup Sour cream(for serving)
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Grate the peeled potatoes and onion using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated mixture in a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Discard the liquid.
💡 Tip: Squeezing out the liquid is crucial for crispy dranniki. - 2
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potato-onion mixture, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 3
Heat about 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking.
- 4
Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form pancakes about 3-4 inches in diameter. Do not overcrowd the pan.
💡 Tip: Work in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness. - 5
Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil as needed between batches.
- 6
Remove the dranniki from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
💡 Tip: Keep cooked dranniki warm in a low oven while frying the rest. - 7
Serve hot dranniki with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra flavor, you can add a clove of minced garlic to the potato mixture.
- ✓If you don't have a grater, a food processor with a grating attachment works well.
- ✓Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter to prevent greasy dranniki.
🔄 Variations
- Add finely chopped cooked mushrooms or grated cheese to the batter.
- Serve with a side of smoked salmon or a fried egg.