Discover the perfect Zemiakové Placky recipe, featuring crispy potato pancakes that are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside. This Slovakian favorite is a delightful comfort food that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a savory snack, these potato pancakes are seasoned to perfection and pair wonderfully with sour cream or applesauce.

Ingredients:

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 large egg

- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

- Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes: Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This helps ensure crispy pancakes.

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Form Pancakes: Scoop a small amount of the potato mixture and flatten it into a patty shape. Carefully place it in the hot oil.

Fry the Pancakes: Fry each pancake for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Add more oil as needed between batches.

Drain and Serve: Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Enjoy: Serve the Zemiakové Placky hot, with a side of sour cream or applesauce for dipping.

Tips:

- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the pancakes to ensure they become crispy.

- For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the flour with breadcrumbs.

Enjoy your delicious Zemiakové Placky!

Nutritional values

Large Potatoes (4, approximately 600g total, peeled and grated):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 77

   - Protein: 2g

   - Carbohydrates: 17g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: High in carbohydrates for energy, a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber, which supports digestion and heart health.

Small Onion (1, approximately 70g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 40

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 9g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds that may help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Adds flavor and depth to dishes.

Garlic Cloves (2 cloves, approximately 6g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 149

   - Protein: 6g

   - Carbohydrates: 33g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Known for its potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Can support immune function and cardiovascular health.

Large Egg (1 or about 50g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 143

   - Protein: 13g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 10g

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins such as A, D, E, and B12. Supports muscle health and overall well-being.

All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons or 24g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 364

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 76g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy and contributes to the structure and texture of the dish.

Salt (1 teaspoon or 6g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 1g):

   - Calories: 0

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon or 1g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 255

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 64g

   - Fat: 3g

Benefits: Adds flavor and may provide antioxidant properties. Enhances the absorption of certain nutrients.

Paprika (1/4 teaspoon or 0.5g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 282

   - Protein: 14g

   - Carbohydrates: 54g

   - Fat: 12g

Benefits: Adds flavor and color. Contains antioxidants like vitamin A and capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Vegetable Oil (amount varies, approximately 2 tablespoons or 30ml used for frying):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100ml):

   - Calories: 884

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 100g

Benefits: Provides essential fatty acids and helps achieve a crispy texture in frying. Adds flavor to the dish.