Pyachysta - Savory Potato Pancakes with a Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Pyachysta, we infuse the traditional Belarusian potato pancakes with Latin American flavors. We incorporate spices like cumin and paprika to add a smoky and slightly spicy taste, while cilantro and lime juice bring a fresh and tangy element to the dish. These additions give the pancakes a unique twist and create a fusion of flavors that celebrate the culinary traditions of both Belarus and the Americas. We alse have the original recipe for Pyachysta, so you can check it out.

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated (about 4 cups / 600g) 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated (about 4 cups / 600g)
• 1 small onion, grated 1 small onion, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, grated onion, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, cilantro, lime juice, eggs, and flour. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. 3.
   Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Take a spoonful of the potato mixture and carefully drop it into the hot oil, flattening it slightly with the back of the spoon. Repeat with more spoonfuls, leaving some space between each pancake.
5. 5.
   Cook the pancakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the pancakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the savory potato pancakes warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes to achieve crispy pancakes.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley for a milder flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra crispiness, you can add a little more oil to the skillet when frying the pancakes.
• Serve the potato pancakes with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the savory potato pancakes as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They also make a delicious appetizer or a light lunch when served with a side salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the potato pancakes on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve them warm to showcase their golden brown color and crispy texture.