Potato cakes are a delicious and versatile dish, often made with mashed potatoes and various seasonings or fillings. There are many variations, but here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Basic Potato Cakes Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably leftover)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, cheddar works well)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions or chives (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp flour (optional, to help bind)
- 2 tbsp butter or oil for frying
Instructions:
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Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’re smooth and not too runny. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, season them with a bit of salt and pepper and let them cool slightly.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, breadcrumbs, grated cheese (if using), green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If the mixture is too wet, you can add a bit of flour to help it come together.
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Shape the Cakes: Take small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Coat the patties lightly with extra breadcrumbs to give them a nice crispy exterior when frying.
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Fry the Cakes: Heat butter or oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the potato cakes and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan, so you may need to do this in batches.
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Serve: Serve your potato cakes warm, perhaps with sour cream, ketchup, or a side salad.
Feel free to customize your potato cakes by adding herbs, spices, or even a bit of bacon or leftover meat for extra flavor. Enjoy!
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