Idaho Potato Pancakes

📜 Collection: UK15 | ✍️ Attribution: Unknown | 📂 Category: Sides A classic recipe for savory Idaho potato pancakes. Freshly grated potatoes are mixed into a thin batter and fried in bacon fat until brown and crisp for a perfect side dish or breakfast.


Prep TimeCook TimeInactive / Chill TimeYield / Servings
20 mins20 minsNone12-16 pancakes

🔪 Key Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Colander or cheesecloth
  • Heavy skillet
  • Spoon
  • Paper towels

Ingredients

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
6 mediumPotatoesIdaho or russet, peeled
1 cupMilkNone
5 tablespoonsFlourAll-purpose
2 largeEggsBeaten
1 teaspoonSaltNone
1/4 teaspoonPepperNone
As neededBacon FatOr other drippings, for frying

For Serving

MeasurementsIngredientsPrep / Notes
As neededApple SauceSpiced
As neededSyrupNone

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. In a medium bowl, make a thin batter by whisking together the 1 cup milk, 5 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 2 large eggs.

Step 2: Grate and Drain Potatoes

  1. Peel and grate the 6 medium potatoes. Place the grated potatoes in a colander or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to drain as much liquid as possible until very dry.

Step 3: Combine and Fry

  1. Working quickly to prevent browning, add the drained 6 medium potatoes to the batter and mix well.
  2. Heat a generous amount of bacon fat or other drippings in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
  3. Drop the batter by spoonfuls onto the hot skillet, flattening each one slightly with the back of the spoon.
  4. Fry until the pancakes are deeply brown and crisp on the edges, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and serve immediately with spiced apple sauce or syrup.

💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Potato pancake batter is best prepared and fried immediately to prevent the potatoes from discoloring and releasing excess water.


Original Recipe Scan

Original Handwritten Card