We’re all about being frugal and making delicious meals from what you have on hand. Today, I’m showing you how to make classic potato cakes, also known as potato pancakes or latkes. This easy recipe is perfect for using leftover baked or mashed potatoes and turning them into a fantastic side dish. We’ll mix cooked potatoes with flour, eggs, Italian parsley, and seasonings, with the option to add some cheddar cheese for extra flavor. I’ll guide you through combining the ingredients, forming the cakes, and pan-frying them to a perfect golden brown. Using up leftovers is not only an economic choice but also a great way to bring your family together around the dinner table.
Special Equipment:
None
Ingredients:
- 3 leftover or freshly baked potatoes, or 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 cup sharp cheddar (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 Tbsp Italian flat leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3-4 Tbsp cooking oil
Directions:
First, empty the potato flesh into a large bowl and smash it with a spoon or your hands. You can also use the potato skins if you chop them up. Then, add the eggs to act as a binder, along with the flour, parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cheese. You can use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until it has a sticky consistency.
Next, roll the mixture into balls and flatten them to cook in a skillet with a few tablespoons of olive oil. You could also deep-fry them. Let them cook for about two to three minutes on each side, or until they’re nicely browned.
Serve with sour cream.
Serves 6.
Upgrades:
Consider adding chopped chives, scallions, onions, other types of cheese, chopped bacon or ham.
