Discover the ultimate recipe for Potato Pancakes (Kartupeļu Plācenīši) – crispy and golden, made from freshly grated potatoes. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream for a deliciously savory treat. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a satisfying side dish. Learn how to make these easy and tasty pancakes with step-by-step instructions and tips for perfect results every time.

Ingredients:

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 large egg

- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

- Sour cream, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes:

  - Peel and grate the potatoes using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

Mix Ingredients:

  - In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, egg, flour, and baking powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Heat Oil:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 

Cook Pancakes:

  - Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and shape it into a patty. Place it in the hot skillet and flatten slightly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. 

Drain and Serve:

  - Remove the cooked pancakes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. 

Enjoy:

  - Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top. Enjoy your crispy, savory potato pancakes!

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or spices for a personalized touch!

Nutritional Values:

Potatoes:

- Calories: 77

- Carbohydrates: 17 grams

- Protein: 2 grams

- Fat: 0.1 grams

- Fiber: 2.2 grams

- Vitamin C: 19.7 mg (33% of Daily Value)

- Potassium: 425 mg

Benefits:

- Energy Source: High in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy.

- Rich in Vitamin C: Supports immune function and skin health.

- Potassium: Helps maintain blood pressure and heart health.

- Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.

Onion:

- Calories: 40

- Carbohydrates: 9 grams

- Protein: 1.1 grams

- Fat: 0.1 grams

- Fiber: 1.7 grams

- Vitamin C: 7.4 mg (12% of Daily Value)

- Calcium: 28 mg

Benefits:

- Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants like quercetin that help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

- Digestive Health: High in fiber and prebiotics that support gut health.

- Immune Support: Vitamin C helps boost the immune system.

Egg:

- Calories: 70

- Carbohydrates: 1 gram

- Protein: 6 grams

- Fat: 5 grams

- Cholesterol: 186 mg

- Vitamin D: 41 IU (10% of Daily Value)

- Calcium: 28 mg

Benefits:

- High-Quality Protein: Provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.

- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in vitamins like B12, Vitamin D, and minerals such as iron and zinc.

- Supports Brain Health: Contains choline, which is important for brain function.

All-Purpose Flour:

- Calories: 364

- Carbohydrates: 76 grams

- Protein: 10 grams

- Fat: 1 gram

- Fiber: 2.7 grams

Benefits:

- Energy Source: High in carbohydrates for energy.

- Versatility: Used in many recipes, providing structure and texture.

Baking Powder:

- Calories: 6

- Sodium: 491 mg (21% of Daily Value)

Benefits:

- Leavening Agent: Helps the pancakes rise and become fluffy.

- Low in Calories: Minimal impact on the overall calorie content of the recipe.

Vegetable Oil:

- Calories: 120

- Carbohydrates: 0 grams

- Protein: 0 grams

- Fat: 14 grams

- Saturated Fat: 1.9 grams

Benefits:

- Cooking Oil: Provides a high smoke point suitable for frying.

- Essential Fatty Acids: Contains healthy fats (though moderation is key).

Sour Cream:

- Calories: 60

- Carbohydrates: 2 grams

- Protein: 1 gram

- Fat: 5 grams

- Vitamin A: 200 IU

Benefits:

- Flavor and Texture: Adds richness and tanginess to dishes.

- Calcium and Vitamin A: Provides small amounts of these nutrients.

By using these ingredients, the potato pancakes not only taste great but also offer a variety of essential nutrients and health benefits.