Classic Belarusian potato pancakes
4 servings
30 minutes
Classic Belarusian draniki are crispy potato pancakes with a golden crust and a tender, soft center. Their history dates back centuries when potatoes became an integral part of Belarusian cuisine. The simplicity of preparation and rich flavor have made draniki a favorite dish in many families. The light aroma of fried onions adds an appetizing note, while the crispy crust combined with the tenderness inside makes each bite unforgettable. Traditionally, draniki are served with sour cream that complements their taste, and sometimes they are filled with meat or mushrooms, turning them into a hearty dish. This is the perfect treat for a cozy family dinner filled with the warmth and flavor of true home cooking.
1
Potatoes should be peeled raw, thoroughly washed, and grated on a fine grater. A blender or meat grinder can also be used to chop the potatoes. Similarly, the onion should be chopped and added to the potatoes. A raw egg, spices to taste (mainly black pepper and salt), and flour are added to the onion-potato mixture for binding. The dough for the draniki is kneaded thoroughly until smooth.
- Potato: 5 piece
- Onion: 0.5 piece
- Chicken egg: 1 piece
- Wheat flour: 2 tablespoons
- Ground black pepper: to taste
- Salt: to taste
2
The pan with hot oil is already waiting for the draniki, so from this moment the frying process begins. The batter for draniki should be carefully placed in the pan in the form of pancakes using a tablespoon. The size of the draniki depends on the hostess's preferences. They can be large, allowing them to be rolled with various fillings, transforming ordinary draniki into a stuffed delicacy. Draniki can also be very small, making them convenient to serve on small plates and likely appealing to little ones.
- Vegetable oil: to taste
3
Draniki are fried on medium heat on both sides until a nice golden crust forms, after which the pan is covered with a lid, and the pancakes are cooked for about three more minutes on low heat.