Best Potato Pancakes Ever
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cold mashed potatoes
- 5 slices bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, well beaten
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- Place the bacon in a large, deep skillet.
- Cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned and crisp, about 10 minutes.
- Remove the bacon slices, crumble, and set aside.
- Leave the bacon drippings in the skillet.
- Prepare the Potato Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the cold mashed potatoes, beaten eggs, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Form Patties:
- Shape the potato mixture into 8 patties.
- Pan-Fry the Patties:
- Heat the bacon drippings in the skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties in the drippings until they are crisp on each side, about 4 minutes per side.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the potato pancakes warm and enjoy
Potato pancakes, also known as latkes or kartoffelpuffer, have a rich history that spans several cultures.
History of Potato Pancakes
Origins:
- Eastern European Roots: Potato pancakes are traditionally associated with Eastern European Jewish cuisine, where they are known as latkes. The word “latke” comes from the Yiddish language, reflecting the dish’s Ashkenazi Jewish origins. Latkes are particularly popular during Hanukkah, symbolizing the oil that miraculously lasted eight days in the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem.
- German Influence: In Germany, potato pancakes are known as Kartoffelpuffer. They have been a staple in German cuisine for centuries and are often enjoyed as a street food or at fairs.
Ingredients and Evolution:
- Early Ingredients: Initially, potato pancakes were made with grated potatoes, onions, and flour. They were a way to use up surplus potatoes and make a hearty, filling dish. Over time, ingredients were adapted based on availability and regional preferences.
- Modern Adaptations: Today, variations of potato pancakes include adding ingredients like cheese, bacon, and herbs, as seen in the recipe you provided. These adaptations reflect regional tastes and the evolution of the dish as it has been embraced by various cultures.
Cultural Significance:
- Festive Foods: In Jewish cuisine, latkes are a festive food associated with Hanukkah. They symbolize the miracle of the oil and are often served with applesauce or sour cream.
- Comfort Food: In German and other European cuisines, potato pancakes are a comfort food, enjoyed as a savory dish or snack, often served with applesauce or sour cream.
Potato pancakes have thus evolved from humble, traditional fare into a beloved dish with diverse variations around the world.
These potato pancakes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with the savory flavors of bacon and cheddar. Enjoy your delicious homemade treat!