These Potato Pancakes with Tomato, Dill, and Mozzarella offer a delightful combination of crispy potato pancakes topped with fresh, flavorful ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fragrant dill, and melted mozzarella. This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even dinner and will surely satisfy your taste buds. The soft, cheesy topping complements the crispy, golden pancakes, making each bite a perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a casual gathering, these pancakes are sure to impress with their vibrant flavors and comforting qualities.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 3 eggs
- 4 medium potatoes
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 4 tbsp flour
- 6 small ripe tomatoes
- Dill (to taste)
- 150g mozzarella
- Olive oil (for frying)
Directions:
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Prepare the Onion and Potato Mixture:
- Peel and grate the onion into a bowl.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and then add them to the bowl with the grated onion.
- Peel and grate the potatoes, then use a kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes. Add the drained potatoes to the bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and the flour. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
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Prepare the Toppings:
- Slice the small ripe tomatoes into thin slices and set them aside.
- Chop the dill finely and set it aside as well.
- Grate the mozzarella cheese and set it aside for later use.
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Cook the Pancakes:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Spoon the potato mixture into the skillet, forming small pancakes. Cook each pancake for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a baking dish. Continue cooking the remaining pancakes.
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Assemble the Pancakes:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Divide the sliced tomatoes and chopped dill into 4 equal parts.
- Place one part of the tomato-dill mixture on top of each pancake, spreading evenly.
- Top each pancake with a portion of the grated mozzarella cheese.
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Bake:
- Place the baking dish with the topped pancakes in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese has melted and is bubbling.
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Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh dill, if desired, and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 14g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 30%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 6%
The Origins and Popularity of Potato Pancakes
Potato pancakes, or “latkes,” have deep roots in Eastern European and Jewish cuisine, where they are traditionally made for Hanukkah to celebrate the miracle of the oil. However, variations of potato pancakes can be found in many cultures around the world. In countries such as Germany, Poland, and Russia, they are known by different names, such as “Reibekuchen” in Germany or “draniki” in Belarus. These crispy, savory pancakes have become a comfort food staple, enjoyed in countless variations.
The addition of toppings like cheese, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, as seen in this recipe, brings a modern twist to the classic potato pancake. The versatility of the potato pancake allows it to adapt to different cuisines and preferences. Whether served as a snack, breakfast, or a main dish, potato pancakes are beloved for their crispy texture, heartiness, and satisfying flavor. The incorporation of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and dill, along with the creamy mozzarella, offers a fresh and delicious update to this timeless dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the crispy goodness of potato pancakes with the bright, fresh flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant dill, and melted mozzarella cheese. The result is a satisfying, hearty dish that feels indulgent yet fresh. It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require many ingredients, making it perfect for a quick meal that feels special. The flavors work harmoniously together, with the cheese and tomatoes providing a creamy, tangy contrast to the crisp potatoes. Whether you’re making this for a weekday meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit!
Health Benefits of Potato Pancakes with Tomato, Dill, and Mozzarella
Potato pancakes offer a source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body, making them a great choice for a filling meal. Potatoes are also rich in potassium, an essential mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure. The addition of tomatoes not only enhances the flavor but also provides vitamin C and antioxidants, which are beneficial for the immune system and skin health. Dill is a fragrant herb that contains antioxidants and may have digestive health benefits. Mozzarella cheese adds protein and calcium, which support bone health. While this dish is indulgent, it also offers some nutritional value when enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
These potato pancakes are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of leafy greens, such as a simple green salad or sautéed spinach. You could also serve them with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt dip to complement the flavors. These pancakes also pair well with a light vegetable soup or a simple fresh vegetable side dish. For a more substantial meal, they can be served with a side of grilled chicken or roasted meats.
Tips
- Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes to ensure the pancakes crisp up nicely when frying.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the pancakes instead of frying them. Simply place the formed pancakes on a baking sheet and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute it with dried dill or other fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the pancakes before baking for an extra cheesy kick.
Variations to Try
- Zucchini and Potato Pancakes: Add some grated zucchini to the potato mixture for a veggie-packed version.
- Cheesy Spinach Potato Pancakes: Add some finely chopped spinach and extra cheese to the potato mixture for a savory, cheesy treat.
- Smoked Salmon Topping: Instead of tomatoes and dill, top the pancakes with smoked salmon, sour cream, and a squeeze of lemon for a luxurious twist.
- Spicy Potato Pancakes: Add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the potato mixture to give the pancakes a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Potato Pancakes with Tomato, Dill, and Mozzarella are a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the crispy texture of potato pancakes with the bright flavors of fresh ingredients. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone. With a golden, crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful topping, it’s a perfect balance of textures and flavors that is both comforting and fresh. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful twist on the classic potato pancake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Can I make the pancakes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pancakes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven for 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) to maintain their crispiness.
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Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella? Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, gouda, or even feta for a different flavor.
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Can I bake the pancakes instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the pancakes for a lighter option. Place them on a baking sheet and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.