Slovenské Zemiakové Placky s Cesnakom a Majoránkou
Slovak Potato Pancakes with Garlic and Marjoram
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these savory Slovak potato pancakes are flavored with garlic and marjoram, making them a popular side dish or a light meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(starchy variety, peeled)
- 1 medium Onion(grated or finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tsp Marjoram(dried, or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
- 2 large Eggs
- 3-4 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1.5 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(or to taste)
- for frying Vegetable oil or lard
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Grate the peeled potatoes using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
💡 Tip: Squeezing out liquid is key for crispy placky. - 2
Transfer the squeezed potatoes to a large bowl. Add the grated onion, minced garlic, marjoram, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined into a thick batter.
- 3
Heat about 1/4 inch of oil or lard in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. The oil is ready when a drop of batter sizzles immediately.
💡 Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough for crisping. - 4
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the potato batter into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form thin pancakes.
- 5
Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
💡 Tip: Fry in batches, adjusting heat to maintain consistent crispiness. - 6
Remove the fried placky from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- 7
Serve immediately while hot and crispy. They can be served as a side dish with meat or stews, or as a main course with sour cream or a dollop of bryndza.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use starchy potatoes for the best texture.
- ✓Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes for crispier results.
- ✓Don't make the pancakes too thick, as they may not cook through properly.
- ✓Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh dill for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in a small amount of grated cheese (like cheddar or Slovak parenica) into the batter.
- Serve with a side of garlic sauce or a simple green salad.