Potato pancakes with wild garlic are an irresistible combination of traditional enjoyment and the spring awakening of nature. This simple yet exceptional recipe transforms ordinary potatoes and short-lived wild garlic into a culinary experience that is both deeply satisfying and refreshing. As nature awakens and begins to come alive again, bringing with it renewal and growth, wild garlic stands out as one of the first herbs of spring, greeting us with its subtle yet distinctive flavor.
Potato pancakes themselves are deeply rooted in many cultures around the world as a symbol of comfort and simplicity. However, adding wild garlic to these traditional dishes adds a new dimension to this humble dish. Wild garlic, with its unique health benefits and subtle garlic flavor, brings a new level of flavor to every bite that will appeal to even the most discerning gourmand.
Preparing these fritters is more than just a cooking process; it’s a festive act that combines simple yet nutritious ingredients with tradition and seasonality. It offers an opportunity to pause and appreciate the gifts that nature brings us, while also reminding us how we can use those gifts to create something truly special.
These fritters can be served as part of a family lunch, an elegant dinner or even as a relaxed dinner with friends. No matter the occasion, potato pancakes with wild garlic will always bring a feeling of home and coziness. With their crispy edges, soft centre and the hint of nature that the wild garlic adds, they become not just a dish, but a real treat for all the senses.
This recipe is an invitation to discover and celebrate nature’s simplicity and purity, while experimenting and adapting traditional dishes to the new flavours that nature offers us each season. It is a story of discovery, adaptation and celebration of life in its purest form.
Recipe Potato pancakes with wild garlic
Ingredients
- 500g potatoes, cleaned and grated
- 1 large handful of wild garlic, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, grated or finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2-3 tablespoons plain flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Procedure
- Grate the cleaned potatoes on a fine grater. Use a clean tea towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the potatoes so that the pancakes hold their shape well and are crisp.
- Grate or chop the onion and finely chop the wild garlic. Add both to the grated potatoes.
- Add the egg, flour, salt and pepper to the potatoes, onion and wild garlic. Mix well until a sticky mixture forms that holds together.
- Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Spoon the mixture into the pan, pressing each portion gently to form a patty. Fry on each side for about 3-4 minutes or until the pancakes are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the finished patties from the pan and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil. Serve warm, ideally with sour cream or yogurt on top.
Potato pancakes with wild garlic questions and answers
What is wild garlic and where can I find it?
Wild garlic is a wild herb that appears in spring in woodland areas. It is known for its delicate garlic-herb scent and flavour. You can find it in woodland areas with moist soil, at health food markets or specialty food stores during its season.
Can I substitute wild garlic with another herb?
If you don’t have access to wild garlic, you can try using young spinach or parsley with some garlic added for a similar effect.
Can I also make pancakes with pre-cooked potatoes?
Yes, pancakes are often even better when made with pre-cooked and then fully cooled potatoes. This allows the potatoes to be firmer and better to work with.
Can I fry the pancakes in the oven instead of a frying pan?
Yes, you can. Although traditionally pancakes are fried in a frying pan for a crispy outer surface, you can also bake them in the oven at around 200°C until golden for a healthier alternative.
How long can I keep baked potato pancakes?
The baked pancakes can be kept in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a frying pan or in the microwave before serving.
Can potato pancakes be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the pancakes separately on a baking sheet and once frozen, transfer them to resealable bags or containers and store in the freezer. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature and then reheat.
What side dishes go well with potato pancakes with wild garlic?
The pancakes taste great with sour cream, fresh herbs or even with cheese sauce. You can also serve them with a light salad for a fresher option.
