Perkedel
Indonesian Potato Fritters
Perkedel are savory Indonesian potato fritters, often enriched with ground meat. These delightful patties are a popular side dish with Dutch colonial influences, similar to European frikadellen.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Potatoes
- 150 g Ground beef(Can substitute with ground chicken or omit for a vegetarian version.)
- 2 Eggs(1 for the mixture, 1 beaten for dipping.)
- 50 g Fried shallots (Bawang Goreng)(Adds a crucial savory depth and aroma. Store-bought is fine.)
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
- 1 tsp Salt(Or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(Or to taste)
- sufficient for frying Vegetable oil(About 1-2 cm deep in the pan)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the hot, empty pot for 1-2 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture. This step is crucial for preventing soggy perkedel.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 2
Mash the potatoes: Mash the hot, drained potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher, a ricer for the smoothest texture, or even a fork. Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 3
Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled mashed potatoes with the ground beef, 1 of the eggs, fried shallots, grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be cohesive enough to form patties.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Form the patties: Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into a small, flattened oval or round patty, about 1-1.5 cm thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Aim for uniform size for even cooking.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 5
Prepare for frying: In a shallow dish, beat the remaining egg. Lightly coat each formed patty in the beaten egg, ensuring it's evenly covered.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Fry the perkedel: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the egg-coated patties into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Fry for about 3-5 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach at least 74°C (165°F).
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 7
Drain and serve: Remove the fried perkedel from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot as a side dish with Indonesian dishes like Soto Ayam or Nasi Goreng, or enjoy them on their own.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The name 'Perkedel' is derived from the Dutch word 'frikadel', reflecting Indonesia's colonial history.
- ✓These are excellent served as a side dish alongside soups like Soto Ayam or with rice dishes such as Nasi Goreng.
- ✓For a crispier exterior, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked corn kernels to the potato mixture for a sweet corn perkedel.
- Omit the ground beef for a simpler, vegetarian potato fritter.