Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes Recipe

Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

This simple recipe for potato fritters yields 4 servings. It's easy to make and a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 egg
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • teaspoon salt
  • cup vegetable oil, or as needed

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients.

Step 2: In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, diced onion, egg, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and has a batter-like consistency.

Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Youll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan.

Step 4: Using a spoon or your hands, drop 4-inch circles of the batter into the hot oil.

Step 5: Fry the fritters until they are golden brown, approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side.

Step 6: Once golden, remove the fritters from the skillet and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

Step 7: Repeat with any remaining batter.

Step 8: Serve hot and enjoy your crispy, delicious potato fritters!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 255
Total Fat 5g
Saturated Fat 1g
Cholesterol 49mg
Sodium 627mg
Total Carbohydrate 45g
Dietary Fiber 3g
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 7g
Vitamin C 9mg
Calcium 44mg
Iron 2mg
Potassium 407mg

Note: The nutritional information is based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may differ depending on your specific needs.

Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes Recipe

Potato cakes, a beloved comfort food, have been a staple of many cultures for centuries. This simple yet hearty dish, made primarily from mashed potatoes, flour, eggs, and seasonings, offers endless versatility and is perfect for using up leftover potatoes. Lets dive into the origins, regional variations, and other interesting facts about this classic recipe.

Origin and History

Potato cakes have roots that trace back to the early days of potato cultivation, particularly in Europe where the humble potato was a dietary staple. The first potato cakes were likely born out of necessity, using mashed potatoes that remained from previous meals to create a satisfying side dish. In the United States, these cakes are considered a quintessential comfort food, often served alongside breakfast or dinner.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of potato cakes remains the same, different regions have put their own spin on this dish. In Ireland, the traditional potato cake is often made with mashed potatoes, butter, flour, and sometimes scallions, and is typically fried until crispy. In Eastern Europe, variations of potato cakes are common, sometimes incorporating ingredients like sour cream, herbs, or even bacon. These cakes are often a central part of meals in many European countries, and variations continue to emerge globally, influenced by local ingredients and cooking traditions.

Distinguishing Features

Potato cakes differ from similar dishes like potato pancakes or latkes primarily in their texture and preparation method. While latkes are made with grated potatoes and tend to have a crispy, thin texture, potato cakes are typically made with mashed potatoes and are thicker, yielding a softer interior. The difference in preparation with mashed versus grated potatoes is key to their distinct texture, making potato cakes slightly denser and fluffier compared to their more crisp counterparts.

Where Are Potato Cakes Typically Served?

Potato cakes are incredibly versatile and can be served in various settings. In the United States and Canada, they are often part of a hearty breakfast or brunch, paired with eggs, bacon, or sausage. They can also be served as a side dish with dinner, complementing meats like roasted chicken, pork, or fish. In many households, theyre a popular way to use up leftover mashed potatoes, turning them into a quick and satisfying meal. In Europe, particularly in Ireland and Scotland, theyre also served as a snack or light meal, often accompanied by a dollop of sour cream or applesauce.

Fun Facts

1. Potato cakes have been used as a way to stretch food supplies. In the times of food scarcity, potatoes were a cheap and filling food that could be repurposed into various meals, including these cakes.

2. In some countries, potato cakes are referred to as "boxty" (in Ireland), a word derived from the Irish phrase "arin bocht," which means "poor man's bread," as it was historically a frugal dish made from inexpensive ingredients.

3. The addition of bacon or cheese to potato cakes is a popular customization. Many cooks add extras to elevate the flavor and texture of the dish, giving it a more savory depth.

Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a hearty side, old-fashioned potato cakes remain a versatile and beloved dish, cherished for their simplicity and delicious taste.

FAQ about Old-Fashioned Potato Cakes Recipe

You can store leftover potato cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes such as russet or Yukon gold. Russets tend to be fluffier, while Yukon golds are creamier, so they will give slightly different textures to the cakes, but both work well.

To prevent your potato cakes from being too oily, make sure your oil is at the right temperature. It should be hot enough to brown the cakes quickly, but not too hot that it causes splattering. You can also reduce the amount of oil you use, ensuring the bottom of the pan is coated but not submerged. It's also helpful to drain the cakes on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

You can add various ingredients to boost the flavor, such as garlic, green onions, crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, or spices like paprika and cayenne pepper. Experiment with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste!

Yes, you can make potato cakes without eggs. To replace the egg, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) or another binder like breadcrumbs or mashed sweet potatoes to hold the mixture together.

You can use other oils for frying, such as olive oil, canola oil, or sunflower oil. However, keep in mind that each oil has a different smoke point, so it's important to choose one that can handle higher temperatures without burning.

Yes, you can make the potato cakes ahead of time. After frying, allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be reheated in a skillet or the oven before serving.

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe. You can add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or zucchini to the batter for added nutrition. You could also try adding different types of cheese or herbs, like parsley or thyme, to change up the flavor.

Yes, you can bake the potato cakes instead of frying them for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Yes, you can make gluten-free potato cakes by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or a starch like cornstarch or potato flour. Ensure that the ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

Comments

Sarah Rivera

06/15/2023 07:01:01 PM

My husband absolutely loved these potato patties! The finely diced onion added a nice touch. A tip for making them: if the potato mixture sticks to your hands, use an ice cream scoop and wet your hands to form the patties. I found that a light coating of oil on the skillet was enough, no need for half a cup.

Raymond Roberts

04/24/2024 10:26:14 PM

Based on this recipe, I made a few modifications with what I had on hand. I used about 1 1/2 cups of leftover mashed potatoes and mixed in 2 tablespoons of green chili sour cream, 2 tablespoons of chopped onion, an egg, a teaspoon of salt and pepper seasoning, approximately 1/2 cup of flour to thicken the batter, and chopped cooked bacon. I cooked the cakes in a mixture of bacon grease, cooking oil, and Smart Balance spread. I used a medium cookie scoop to portion the batter onto the pan, flattening them while cooking. I'll be serving them with extra sour cream. These cakes turned out delicious, give them a try!

Susan Williams

12/03/2024 01:39:40 AM

I had some leftover mashed potatoes and decided to use green onions instead of regular onions. I discovered that two eggs were required for every 2 cups of potatoes. It was a simple recipe and turned out to be delicious as well.

Sharon Garcia

10/20/2024 12:30:07 AM

OMG! This recipe is absolutely fantastic. I made these potato cakes to go with roasted chicken and spinach sausages, my own twist on "bangers and mash". I decided to use less oil than the recipe called for, and it worked perfectly. Mixing green onion with yellow onion, as another reviewer suggested, added a special touch to an already amazing dish. A helpful tip: I used an ice cream scoop to form the potato cakes in the skillet, then flattened them with a spatula sprayed with cooking spray. This prevented the potatoes from sticking and worked like a charm. I served the potato cakes with roasted chicken, spinach sausages, and green beans, accompanied by sour cream as suggested by others. It was heavenly! This recipe is a definite winner. Thank you for sharing it.

Jason White

09/17/2022 04:33:00 AM

This is a great foundational recipe, in line with my approach to most recipes. I've noticed some reviews expressing concerns about the pancakes being greasy and lacking flavor. My suggestion is for these cooks to adjust the recipe to suit their preferences and also to have a basic understanding of the science behind cooking. To address the issue of greasy pancakes, consider the purpose of adding oil in the first place. If it's just to prevent sticking, try using a thin layer of oil on the pan but applying it more frequently between batches. If you end up with overly greasy pancakes, you may be using too much oil and cooking too much at once. Adjust the amount of oil, heat, and batch size to maintain a stable cooking temperature for consistent results. If your pancakes are still too oily, it could be due to insufficient oil temperature or overcrowding the pan, leading to a drop in temperature that prevents proper searing. Remember, the goal of frying is to quickly sear the exterior while sealing in moisture. Adjust the oil temperature based on your choice of oil and try to maintain a consistent level by controlling the amount in your pan. Additionally, take into account the properties of your cookware. Cast iron and aluminum pans conduct heat more effectively than basic stainless steel, which mainly heats at the surface. This means stainless steel is better for searing the outside, while cast iron or aluminum can cook the interior more thoroughly by radiating heat beyond the pan's surface.

Matthew Anderson

06/24/2023 08:47:48 AM

Here is the rewritten review: "My 75-year-old mother declared these potato cakes as the best she has ever tasted, and she's tried quite a few in her lifetime. I enhanced the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the flour mixture. I also set aside some flour mixture to coat the exterior of the cakes, which added a nice crunch. Using butter on my hands while forming the cakes was a great tip to prevent them from sticking. I opted to fry them in a mixture of butter and olive oil, which turned out to be a winning combination. My husband loved them so much that he requested I make extra mashed potatoes next time to ensure there are plenty of leftovers for more potato cakes."

Richard Evans

10/03/2023 08:28:21 PM

I have been enjoying these hash browns for over 60 years! The options for toppings are limitless. My go-to additions are crispy bacon bits and melty shredded cheese. I typically cook them in butter, but have also tried using cooking spray. I have experimented with adding green onions, minced garlic, sautéed mushrooms, diced ham, and breakfast sausage. They are always a hit with my guests when served for breakfast alongside sunny-side-up eggs.

Ashley Martinez

05/28/2023 11:07:20 AM

I initially followed the recipe using 3 green onions and reducing the flour to about 3/4 cup. The first batch turned out tasting quite similar to fried potatoes and lacking in flavor. To improve it, I sprinkled in some garlic powder and paprika, incorporated an extra egg, and added some grated cheese to the next batch. This elevated the dish to a five-star level for us! It's a fantastic way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes.

Emily Rivera

01/29/2023 10:33:25 PM

The original recipe instructions resulted in a bland and oily dish. To enhance the flavor, I made some modifications. I added garlic, as everything tastes better with it. I also used a local brand of seasoned salt, along with a combination of salt, pepper, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a little kick. I cooked them in a few tablespoons of oil, ensuring the bottom of the pan was covered but not submerged. This helped to achieve a crispy exterior. For serving, I recommend topping them with sour cream, chives, and bacon bits for a delicious finished dish.

Ryan Johnson

04/09/2023 07:27:11 PM

I prepared these potato cakes to accompany roast pork loin and sauerkraut - they were absolutely delicious! Following recommendations, I decreased the flour to 1/2 cup and used less oil, resulting in perfectly cooked potato cakes. Next time, I might add a touch more salt and pepper. Thank you!

Deborah Garcia

05/22/2023 05:09:50 PM

Here is my review: I recommend using less oil in a well-seasoned cast iron or non-stick skillet and ensuring that it is adequately heated. The dish can become oily if the skillet is not hot enough. Additionally, the crust on this dish is a standout feature! Feel free to season more to taste. I personally enjoy adding plenty of sautéed onions, but a touch of sautéed garlic (or garlic powder) and a sprinkle of paprika also work well. I found that using two average-sized eggs worked better than using one jumbo egg. For a delicious twist, consider adding flaked cooked cod or haddock to create fantastic fish cakes!

Timothy Hill

04/29/2025 06:55:05 PM

I'm sorry to say that these did not turn out well. I followed the directions exactly, but the result was disappointing. I will not be attempting this recipe again, nor would I recommend it.

Mark Young

05/05/2023 01:11:13 AM

I absolutely adore this recipe! I've made it several times now and it's absolutely delicious.

Brandon Lee

11/29/2022 10:47:58 AM

I absolutely adore them. They turned out fantastic.

Nicholas Jackson

04/15/2023 08:47:35 AM

I usually boil my potatoes with a stock cube, which adds extra flavor to them. Then I follow the recipe, but I also add some smoked paprika and mixed herbs, which gives it a great taste. I also used half the amount of flour suggested and it turned out delicious.

Justin Jackson

01/11/2023 09:03:49 PM

No changes needed. I used my iron skillet with plenty of hot oil. The first round was slightly larger than the second batch, which browned quickly on the outside. Both turned out well. I added diced onions for extra flavor and crispiness around the edges, making them delicious.

Thomas Harris

01/09/2023 08:29:13 AM

Wonderful foundation for creating Potato Cakes. I discovered that incorporating spices into the mixture significantly enhanced the flavor of the end result and made it more hearty. An excellent recipe to try out!

Maria Lewis

07/11/2023 03:55:26 PM

Recipe was extremely simple to follow.

Benjamin Flores

03/11/2024 03:25:56 AM

This method is excellent for reducing food waste!

Christine Thompson

03/23/2024 07:50:30 PM

My mother used to make this dish in the 1950s (maybe even earlier) with leftover mashed potatoes. Occasionally, she would incorporate spinach. While she preferred canned (not my favorite, I don't understand Popeye's fascination with it), I opt for fresh cooked or defrosted spinach. The result is surprisingly delicious.