Say goodbye to food waste: turn mashed potato leftovers into golden potato pancakes
What To Know
- These crispy treats are not only a great way to use up leftovers but also a tasty and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- If you have leftover batter, you can add it to the next batch of potato pancakes or use it to make potato dumplings.
When it comes to leftover mashed potatoes, the possibilities are endless. But if you’re looking for a delectable way to repurpose them, look no further than the humble potato pancake. These crispy treats are not only a great way to use up leftovers but also a tasty and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or fork
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are cold, microwave them for a few seconds to warm them slightly. This will make them easier to handle.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, onion, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form Patties: Divide the potato mixture into 8-10 equal portions. Shape each portion into a flat patty, about 1/2-inch thick.
4. Heat the Oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Cook the Pancakes: Carefully place the potato patties in the hot oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked potato pancakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Recipe Variations:
- Add Herbs: For a more flavorful pancake, add some fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme to the potato mixture.
- Incorporate Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella cheese can be added to the batter for a cheesy twist.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Top with Sauces: Serve the potato pancakes with various sauces, such as sour cream, applesauce, or salsa.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast: Serve the potato pancakes with eggs, bacon, or fruit for a hearty breakfast.
- Lunch: Pack the potato pancakes in a sandwich with your favorite fillings, such as cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
- Dinner: Serve the potato pancakes as a side dish with grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
Conclusion:
Transforming leftover mashed potatoes into crispy potato pancakes is an easy and delicious way to repurpose leftovers. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for any meal occasion. So, next time you have leftover mashed potatoes, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try and experience the crispy, flavorful goodness of potato pancakes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but they may require a bit more flour to bind the mixture.
Q: Can I freeze the potato pancakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the potato pancakes once they have cooled completely. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat in a toaster oven or skillet until crispy.
Q: What can I do with leftover potato pancake batter?
A: If you have leftover batter, you can add it to the next batch of potato pancakes or use it to make potato dumplings.
