Delicious Potato Cake Recipes: Savory and Sweet Options

Introduction

Potato cakes are a delightful treat that combines the savory essence of potatoes with the deliciousness of cake-like textures. They are versatile, flavorful, and can be served on any occasion. Over the years, potato cakes have evolved and have been adapted by various cultures, giving us an array of variations to choose from. In this article, we'll explore a traditional potato cake recipe and some modern twists, ensuring you have a potato cake for every palate!

Tips For The Best Mashed Potato Cakes

Mashed potato cakes are a brilliant way to utilize leftover mashed potatoes or even purposefully create a savory snack. For the fluffiest, crispiest, and most flavorful potato cakes, consider the following tips:

1. Properly Seasoned Mashed Potatoes: Ensure your base mashed potatoes are well-seasoned. Remember, bland mashed potatoes will result in flat potato cakes.
2. Dry Potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are too wet or runny, your cakes may hold together poorly. If you're making mashed potatoes specifically for cakes, consider making them thicker than usual.
3. Binding Agents: Use beaten eggs and a little flour or breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together and give the cakes a crispy exterior when frying.
4. Add-ins: Mix finely chopped veggies, cheese, herbs, or cooked bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
5. Uniform Size: Ensure all potato cakes are the same size and thickness. This ensures even cooking.
6. Hot Oil: Prior to incorporating your potato cakes, make sure the oil is heated. The result will be a crunchy exterior. Avoid overheating the oil, too, since this can result in the cakes browning too quickly without fully cooking.
7. Avoid Crowding the Pan: Fry only a few cakes simultaneously to maintain the oil's temperature and prevent the cakes from sticking together.
8. Use a Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet provides even heating and will give your potato cakes a consistent golden brown crust.
9. Drain on Paper Towels: Once you've fried your potato cakes, place them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
10. Serve Hot: Like most fried foods, mashed potato cakes taste best when served hot. Keep them warm in an oven set to a low temperature while you fry the rest.
11. Reheat Properly:To keep the crispiness of leftovers, reheat them in the oven or toaster oven. They may go soggy if microwaved.
12. Experiment with Dips: Mashed potato cakes can be paired with various dips - from traditional sour cream and chives to spicy sauces. Experiment to find your favorite combination.
13. Texture Variation: If you like a bit of crunch in your potato cakes, consider adding some breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes to the exterior before frying.
14. Chilling Before Frying: If you have time, chill the formed potato cakes in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before frying. This helps them hold their shape better during the frying process.

By following these tips, you'll be able to create mashed potato cakes that are delicious and consistently perfect in texture and flavor. Enjoy!

Can Mashed Potato Cakes Be Frozen?

Yes, mashed potato cakes can be frozen, making them a convenient option for meal prep or to use up leftovers. Freezing them properly ensures that they retain their taste and texture upon reheating. Here's how to freeze and reheat mashed potato cakes:

Freezing Mashed Potato Cakes

1. Cool Completely: After cooking your mashed potato cakes, allow them to cool to room temperature.
2. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the cooled potato cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer. This preliminary freezing process keeps the cakes from sticking together in the freezer.
3. Flash Freeze: Place the baking sheet in the freezer and allow the potato cakes to freeze for 1-2 hours or until solid.
4. Package for Freezing: Transfer the flash-frozen potato cakes into resealable plastic freezer bags or airtight containers. To prevent sticking, insert a sheet of parchment paper between each layer of potato cakes if stacking.
5. Label and Date: Always label your bags or containers with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long they've been stored.
6. Store: Mashed potato cakes can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months for the best quality.

Reheating Frozen Mashed Potato Cakes

1. Oven/Toaster Oven: Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Bake the frozen potato cakes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're heated through and crispy on the outside. For even crisping, turn them halfway.
2. Skillet: You may alternatively reheat the potato cakes in a skillet. In a skillet over medium heat, heat some oil and cook the frozen cakes until they're hot and crispy
3. Avoid the Microwave: While a microwave is convenient, it tends to make the potato cakes soggy rather than crispy.

Note: While you can thaw the potato cakes in the refrigerator before reheating, it's unnecessary. Cooking them directly from frozen usually yields better results in terms of texture.

You can enjoy a convenient and tasty meal or snack anytime by freezing and reheating mashed potato cakes properly!

What can I serve with mashed potato cakes?

With their crisp exterior and creamy exterior, mashed potato cakes can be paired with various accompaniments. Depending on whether you're serving them as a main dish, side dish, or snack, here are some serving suggestions:

Sauces and Dips:

1. Sour Cream and Chives: A classic pairing; the rancid cream's coolness complements the potato cakes' warmth.
2. Apple Sauce: Particularly good if you're serving potato cakes as a breakfast or brunch item.
3. Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with a bit of sriracha or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Yogurt and Dill Dip: Combine Greek yogurt, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Ketchup: A favorite, especially with kids!
6. Cheese Sauce: A creamy cheese sauce can elevate the taste and make the dish even more indulgent.
7. Gravy: A rich gravy can transform potato cakes into a hearty meal.

Proteins:

1. Bacon: Crisp bacon strips or crumbled bacon can be served on the side or on top.
2. Smoked Salmon: A luxurious addition, particularly for brunch.
3. Sausages: Serve with breakfast sausages for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
4. Eggs: Sunny-side-up, poached, or scrambled eggs can be a delightful partner.
5. Beans: Baked beans or a bean salad can add protein and balance the dish.

Vegetables and Salads:

1. Green Salad: A light, crispy salad can balance out the richness of potato cakes.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Brussel sprouts, carrots, or asparagus can make it a complete meal.
3. Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of pickled onions, cucumbers, or radishes can cut through the creaminess of potato cakes.

Grains:

1. Toasted Bread: For a hearty breakfast, some toast on the side can be wonderful.
2. Rice or Quinoa Salad: A cold salad with either of these grains can be refreshing and filling.

Others:

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can be a light, sweet counterpart.
2. Cheese: Slices of cheese or a cheese board can complement the warm potato cakes.

The versatility of mashed potato cakes means they can be adapted to fit almost any meal setting, from a simple snack to an elaborate dinner. Choose your accompaniments based on the occasion and personal preference.

Traditional Potato Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and boiled
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Mash the boiled potatoes in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
2. Add milk, butter, and the beaten egg to the mashed potatoes. Mix well.
3. Slowly fold in the flour, salt, and pepper. Ensure the mixture is uniform.
4. Stir in the chopped green onions.
5. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
6. Take a portion of the potato mixture and flatten it into a patty. Gently slide it into the hot oil.
7. Fry on each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Remove and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your choice of sauce.

Cheesy Potato Cakes

Ingredients:

• Basic potato cake ingredients from above
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Follow the traditional potato cake recipe, but fold in cheddar cheese and parsley before forming into patties.
2. Fry as instructed above.

Sweet Potato Cakes

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and boiled
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Basic ingredients from the traditional recipe

Instructions:

1. Follow the traditional potato cake recipe using sweet potatoes.
2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg while mashing the sweet potatoes.
3. Form patties and fry as directed.

Vegan Potato Cakes

Ingredients:

• Basic potato cake ingredients excluding egg and milk
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water (as an egg substitute)

Instructions:

1. Follow the traditional potato cake recipe but replace milk with almond milk and the egg with the flaxseed mixture.
2. Fry as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Prepare The Potato Mixture Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container.

How Do I Store Leftover Potato Cakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or on a skillet for best results.

Can I Bake The Potato Cakes Instead Of Frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway.

Which Sauce Pairs Best With Potato Cakes?

Potato cakes are versatile. They can be served with sour cream, ketchup, apple sauce, or even spicy mayo.

Can I Add Other Ingredients To The Potato Cakes?

Definitely! Add bacon bits, cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Potato cakes, with their crispy exteriors and soft, flavorful interiors, are a testament to the versatility of the humble potato. Whether you're craving a traditional treat, a sweet delight, or a vegan snack, there's a potato cake recipe for you. With endless customization possibilities, you're sure to impress friends and family with your culinary skills! Try these recipes and savor the simple joys of a well-made potato cake.