How to Make Chef John's Classic Potato Pancakes - A Step-by-Step Guide

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor, Chef John's Classic Potato Pancakes are a beloved dish that never fails to impress. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, and it's easy to see why these potato pancakes continue to stand the test of time. Whether you're craving a hearty breakfast, a satisfying side dish, or a comforting snack, these golden-brown delights are sure to hit the spot.

What sets Chef John's potato pancakes apart...

Read more Snack recipes

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ pounds russet potatoes, peeled and grated
  • ½ yellow onion, grated
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Additional Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 45 mins
  • Servings: 4

  • Place potatoes and onion into a large bowl and pour enough cold water in the bowl to cover by several inches. Let rest until potatoes and onion are completely soaked, 20 to 30 minutes. Pour potato mixture into a colander, rinse, drain, and squeeze repeatedly to remove all moisture.
  • Whisk eggs, flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl until smooth.
  • Mix potato mixture and egg mixture together in a large bowl with a spatula.
  • Heat 1/4-inch oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. When oil shimmers, drop large spoonfuls of potato batter into hot oil and flatten with a spatula to about 1/2-inch thick. Cook until the edges of pancakes are golden brown and crispy, 3 to 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, flip pancakes, and cook until golden brown and crispy on the other side, about 5 minutes more. Repeat cooking process with remaining batter.
  • Nutrition

    315 cal.

    • Total Fat: 8g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 93mg
    • Sodium: 633mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 52g
    • Dietary Fiber: 6g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 9g
    • Vitamin C: 53mg
    • Calcium: 53mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 1161mg