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Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes

Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes
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Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes feature crispy golden crusts with warm, tender centers, crafted from simple pantry staples. This classic comfort food is perfect for any meal or snack, delivering nostalgic flavors and versatile serving options that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
  • 2–3 tablespoons butter or oil, for frying

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or dill)
  • 1/2 cup mashed sweet potatoes (as a substitute for regular potatoes)
  • 1 finely chopped jalapeño or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Potatoes: Peel and boil the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly to remove excess moisture. Let them cool enough to handle, then mash until smooth with a slight fluffiness remaining.
  2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes with eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and chopped onions if using. Mix gently until fully incorporated into a soft, moldable dough. Avoid overmixing.
  3. Shape the Cakes: Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick. Keep cakes thin to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  4. Fry Until Golden: Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the potato cakes for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Flip gently with a spatula to maintain their shape.
  5. Drain and Serve Warm: Remove cakes from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while warm for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Drain potatoes thoroughly to prevent soggy cakes.
  • Mix just until combined to keep cakes tender.
  • Use medium heat for frying to avoid burning the exterior before cooking inside.
  • Let the batter rest for 10 minutes to allow flour to absorb moisture evenly.
  • A cast iron skillet works great for an extra crispy crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato cakes, comfort food, crispy potato patties, old-fashioned recipe, gluten-free potato cakes, breakfast potatoes

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/old-fashioned-potato-cakes/