Polish Potato Pancakes, or “placki ziemniaczane,” are a beloved comfort food with a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, savory center. These pancakes have been a staple in Polish kitchens for generations, often served as a hearty meal or side dish. They are made with simple, humble ingredients—grated potatoes, onion, and egg—and fried to perfection in hot oil. The flavor is rustic and satisfying, especially when topped with sour cream, applesauce, or even a sprinkle of sugar, depending on tradition and personal taste. This dish brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth, making it perfect for family dinners, holiday spreads, or a cozy weekend treat. The beauty of Polish Potato Pancakes lies in their versatility. They’re easy to whip up, delicious hot off the skillet, and pair well with a variety of toppings. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or discovering this recipe for the first time, these crispy delights are sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe box.
Storage Options
Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to retain crispiness. Freeze in layers with parchment paper and reheat directly from frozen.
Summary
Golden, crispy, and savory pancakes made from shredded potatoes and onions—perfect as a side dish or main course.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with basic pantry staples
Crispy on the outside, tender inside
Versatile and easy to customize
Great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner
Traditional comfort food with rich heritage
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Box grater or food processor
Mixing bowls
Skillet or frying pan
Spatula
Paper towels
Tips for Success
Squeeze out excess moisture from grated potatoes
Use a hot, well-oiled skillet for maximum crispiness
Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan
Keep finished pancakes warm in a low oven
Ingredients
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
1 small onion, grated
2 eggs
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Sour cream or applesauce for serving (optional)
Directions
Place grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and add eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
Fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with sour cream or applesauce.
Additional Tips or Variations
Add grated garlic or herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor
Mix in shredded zucchini or carrot for variety
Make them mini-sized for appetizers or party snacks