If you have potatoes and eggs on hand, this recipe is perfect for you! Inspired by the comforting flavors of a village grandmother’s kitchen, this dish is simple, affordable, and guaranteed to delight your family and guests. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, these potato snacks are a crowd-pleaser. Follow this easy recipe to create a dish that’s both hearty and delicious.
Ingredients
For the Potato Snacks:
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and grated
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 4-5 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/3 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Sweet pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 200 ml milk (divided into two 100 ml portions)
- 200 g Cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Italian herb mix, to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Potato Mixture:
- Grate the Potatoes: Peel and grate the potatoes, then squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean cloth or paper towel. This ensures the mixture isn’t too watery.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, eggs, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, paprika, parsley, dill, salt, black pepper, and sweet pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Snacks: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties or balls. If the mixture feels too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully place the potato patties in the oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Add the Milk: Gradually pour in 100 ml of milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens slightly, add the remaining 100 ml of milk and continue stirring.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and add the grated Cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. Keep the sauce warm until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestion
Arrange the crispy potato snacks on a plate and drizzle the warm cheese sauce over them, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Affordable: Uses basic pantry ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of crispy potatoes and creamy cheese sauce is irresistible.
Enjoy this comforting recipe with your loved ones, and savor the taste of homemade goodness! Happy cooking!
