Discover the authentic taste of Lithuania with our Žemaičių Blynai recipe. These traditional potato pancakes are fried to a perfect crispiness and served with creamy sour cream. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delicious side dish, this recipe brings a delightful crunch and rich flavor to your table. Learn how to make these easy-to-follow potato pancakes with simple ingredients that deliver an unforgettable taste of Lithuanian cuisine. 

Ingredients:

- 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 large egg

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- Salt and black pepper, to taste

- Vegetable oil, for frying

- Sour cream, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare Potatoes: Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture. Transfer the potatoes to a large bowl.

Mix Ingredients: Add the finely chopped onion, egg, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the grated potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil over medium heat.

Fry Pancakes: Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the potato mixture into the hot oil and flatten slightly with the back of the spoon. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Serve: Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on the side.

Enjoy your crispy Žemaičių Blynai as a delicious Lithuanian treat!

Nutritional Values

Potatoes

 - Calories: 77

 - Carbohydrates: 17g

 - Protein: 2g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 2.2g

 - Vitamin C: 19.7 mg

 - Potassium: 425 mg

Benefits: 

 - Rich in Carbohydrates: Provides energy and helps in muscle function.

 - High in Vitamin C: Supports the immune system and skin health.

 - Contains Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.

Onion

 - Calories: 40

 - Carbohydrates: 9g

 - Protein: 1.1g

 - Fat: 0.1g

 - Fiber: 1.7g

 - Vitamin C: 7.4 mg

 - Calcium: 23 mg

Benefits:

 - Antioxidants: Contains quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

 - Supports Digestive Health: High in prebiotic fiber that supports gut health.

Egg

 - Calories: 155

 - Carbohydrates: 1.1g

 - Protein: 13g

 - Fat: 11g

 - Vitamin D: 2.2 µg

 - Vitamin B12: 1.1 µg

Benefits: 

 - High-Quality Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth.

 - Rich in Vitamins: Provides important nutrients such as Vitamin D and B12, which support bone health and energy levels.

All-Purpose Flour:

 - Calories: 364

 - Carbohydrates: 76g

 - Protein: 10g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Fiber: 2.7g

Benefits: 

 - Provides Energy: High carbohydrate content supplies quick energy.

 - Supports Digestive Health: Contains fiber that helps in digestion.

Baking Powder

 - Calories: 53

 - Carbohydrates: 13g

 - Sodium: 17,000 mg (very high)

Benefits: 

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

Vegetable Oil

 - Calories: 884

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 100g (mostly unsaturated fats)

Benefits: 

 - Provides Healthy Fats: Essential for brain health and energy.

Sour Cream

 - Calories: 193

 - Carbohydrates: 4.6g

 - Protein: 2.7g

 - Fat: 18g

Benefits: 

 - Rich in Calcium: Supports bone health.

 - Provides Probiotics: Promotes healthy digestion.

By combining these ingredients, Žemaičių Blynai offers a balance of energy, protein, and essential nutrients, while also providing health benefits from the key components of the dish.