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Potato pancakes are among the dishes that have held a firm place in the Czech Republic and Slovakia for generations. Every family has its own recipe and secret method for achieving the right combination – a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. That was also my great-grandmother’s secret; she had an infallible recipe for making pancakes.
Pancakes are made from grated potatoes, eggs and a little flour. You can add onion, garlic or herbs and the result will be a little different each time, but always delicious. It’s not just the traditional Czech bramboráky – similar pancakes can be found in Jewish cuisine (latkes), in Hungary (tócsni) or in Slovakia (harule).
What is the difference between classic pancakes and latkes?
When you say „placky“, most people imagine grated potatoes fried in a pan until golden. Latkes, the traditional Jewish pancakes, differ in several details:
- Latkes – are made from potatoes, tend to be thicker and are fried in a larger amount of oil.
- Modern pancakes – can be made from zucchini, pumpkin or sweet potatoes, are fried with less fat and are lighter.
The secret of a crispy pancake according to my great-grandmother
- Raw vegetables – after grating, always squeeze them well, otherwise the pancakes will be soft and crumbly.
- Proper seasoning – in addition to salt and pepper, add onion, garlic or fresh herbs.
- Flour in moderation – add only enough to hold the mixture together. Too much flour will worsen the taste.
- Proper frying – the oil must be hot enough so that the pancake is crispy on the outside and moist inside.
Ways to prepare pancakes
- In a pan – the classic method with a beautifully golden crust.
- In a waffle iron – an unconventional tip; the pancakes gain a nice shape and crispness.
- In the oven – a healthier option without a lot of fat, ideal for preparing multiple pieces at once.
What to serve pancakes with
Pancakes taste great on their own, but even better with accompaniments. Try, for example:
- sour cream with garlic,
- yogurt with fresh herbs,
- grated cheese,
- spicy sauces or a fresh vegetable salad.
Traditional Jewish latkes are also served with sweet apple puree – a combination that surprises but is definitely worth trying.
Conclusion
Pancakes are a dish that combines simplicity with tradition. Whether you make classic bramboráky, Jewish latkes or modern variants from zucchini, it always holds that the secret to success is in proper preparation and frying. If you follow our grandmothers’ advice, you’ll get a dish the whole family will love.
