Placki Ziemniaczane
Polish Potato Pancakes
Authentic Polish potato pancakes, known as Placki Ziemniaczane, are a beloved comfort food. These pancakes are pan-fried until wonderfully crispy and golden brown on the outside, with a tender interior. They are a versatile dish, perfect as a simple snack or a hearty side.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(Starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for crispiness.)
- 1 medium Onion(Yellow or white onion.)
- 2 large Eggs
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour(Plus more if needed to bind the batter.)
- 1 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
- generous amount for frying Vegetable oil or lard(Enough to generously coat the bottom of the pan, about 1/4 inch deep.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the potatoes and onion: Peel the potatoes and the onion. Using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, grate the potatoes and onion into a large bowl. Work quickly to prevent the potatoes from oxidizing and turning brown.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Drain excess liquid: Transfer the grated potato and onion mixture to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Gather the edges and twist tightly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes. Discard the liquid.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Make the batter: Return the squeezed-out potato and onion mixture to the clean bowl. Add the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but hold together. If it seems too wet, add another tablespoon of flour.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Heat the oil: Pour enough oil or lard into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet to cover the bottom by about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and a small drop of batter sizzles immediately upon contact. The ideal temperature is around 180-190°C (350-375°F).
- 5
Fry the pancakes: Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form thin pancakes. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, or until deeply golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to maintain consistent frying temperature.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 6
Drain and serve: Using a slotted spoon or spatula, remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes and onions; this is key to achieving a crispy texture.
- ✓Ensure the frying oil is hot enough before adding the batter. If the oil is too cool, the pancakes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- ✓Serve Placki Ziemniaczane hot. They are traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream, or as a side dish to hearty stews like goulash.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with a rich mushroom sauce for a more decadent meal.
- A classic pairing is sweet apple sauce, offering a delightful contrast to the savory pancakes.