RecipesSlovakiaZemiakové placky

Zemiakové placky

Crispy and savory potato pancakes, a beloved Slovak comfort food often served as a side dish or a light meal. They are made from grated potatoes, flour, and seasoned with garlic and marjoram.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Zemiakové placky - Slovakia traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and finely grated)
  • 150 g All-purpose flour
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 1 tsp Marjoram(dried)
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Black pepper
  • for frying Vegetable oil

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes. This is crucial for crispy placky.

    💡 Tip: You can use a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel to wring out the moisture.
  2. 2

    In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potatoes, flour, eggs, minced garlic, dried marjoram, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

    💡 Tip: Ensure the mixture is not too wet; if it seems too moist, add a tablespoon more flour.
  3. 3

    Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about 1/4 inch deep.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  4. 4

    Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form thin pancakes.

    💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  5. 5

    Fry the zemiakové placky for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

    ⏱️ 8 minutes
    💡 Tip: Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning.
  6. 6

    Remove the cooked placky from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

    💡 Tip: Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

💡 Pro Tips

  • For extra flavor, some recipes include a pinch of caraway seeds.
  • Serve with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce.
  • Leftover placky can be reheated in an oven or a dry skillet for best results.

🔄 Variations

  • Some variations include finely chopped onion mixed into the batter.
  • For a heartier meal, serve with a side of sauerkraut or Slovak goulash.

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