The ultimate potato pancake recipe: crispy, fluffy, and topped with ooey-gooey cheese

Potato pancakes, also known as latkes, are a beloved dish enjoyed by people of all ages. With their crispy exterior and tender, fluffy interior, they make a perfect breakfast, brunch, or side dish. In this blog post, we will guide you through the art of making potato pancakes with cheese, a delicious variation that will elevate your taste buds to new heights.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, ensure you have the following ingredients at hand:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 large onion, grated
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Prepare the Potato Mixture

1. Grate the Potatoes and Onion: Use the large holes of a box grater to grate the potatoes and onion. Place the grated mixture in a large bowl.
2. Drain Excess Liquid: Transfer the grated mixture to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This will help the pancakes retain their crispy texture.
3. Add Eggs and Flour: Crack the eggs into the bowl and whisk them until well beaten. Add the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper, and mix until well combined.

Incorporate the Cheese

1. Add Shredded Cheese: Pour the shredded cheddar cheese into the potato mixture and stir gently until evenly distributed. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, gooey center in each pancake.

Form and Fry the Pancakes

1. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Form the Pancakes: Use a large spoon or your hands to form the potato mixture into patties about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Fry the Pancakes: Carefully place the potato pancakes in the hot oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the potato pancakes are cooked, remove them from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, applesauce, or salsa.

Tips for Perfect Potato Pancakes

• Use Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes have a high starch content, which helps bind the pancakes together.
• Squeeze Out Excess Liquid: Removing excess liquid from the grated potatoes is crucial for crispy pancakes.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in tough pancakes.
• Heat the Pan Properly: The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when the pancakes are added. This will prevent them from sticking to the pan.
• Cook in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook the pancakes in batches to ensure even cooking.

Variations

• Sweet Potato Pancakes: Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a sweeter variation.
• Zucchini Pancakes: Add grated zucchini to the potato mixture for a light and refreshing twist.
• Bacon Pancakes: Crumble cooked bacon into the batter for a savory and smoky flavor.

Summary: Elevate Your Breakfast or Brunch

With this step-by-step guide, you now have the knowledge and confidence to create your own delicious potato pancakes with cheese. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish, these crispy and cheesy treats will surely impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other types of cheese in these pancakes?

A: Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Swiss, or Parmesan.

Q: How do I make gluten-free potato pancakes?

A: To make gluten-free potato pancakes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.

Q: Can I freeze potato pancakes?

A: Yes, you can freeze potato pancakes for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.