If you have a craving for crispy, flavorful comfort food, then this Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine golden, tender wedges of potato that boast a perfectly crispy crust and a soft, fluffy interior, gently enhanced by the sweetness of sautéed onions and the richness of butter and oil. This recipe is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients, treated with a little love and care, can transform into a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re after a hearty side or a satisfying snack, these potatoes will quickly become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of every single ingredient. Each one plays a vital role, from bringing the perfect texture to delivering balanced flavor and color that make the dish irresistible.
- 4 medium-large potatoes: Choose starchy or all-purpose potatoes for the best crispy exterior and soft inside.
- 1/2 of an onion (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the pan-fried potatoes.
- 1 Tbsp of butter: Provides rich flavor and helps in caramelizing the onion beautifully.
- 2 Tbsp of oil: Essential for frying; use something with a high smoke point like vegetable or sunflower oil.
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste: Enhances the overall flavors, making every bite satisfying.
- 1/4 tsp of pepper or to taste: Adds a mild kick and balances the buttery richness perfectly.
How to Make Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into small wedges or fries. The key here is to keep the pieces proportional, which ensures they cook evenly. This foundation step sets you up for perfectly cooked potatoes where every bite is consistent in texture.
Step 2: Rinse and Dry
After cutting, rinse the peeled potatoes thoroughly in water to remove excess starch. This little trick prevents them from sticking together and helps achieve that coveted crispiness. Once rinsed, lay them out on a cutting board and pat completely dry with a paper towel.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Dice half an onion finely and melt a tablespoon of butter in your frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for about three minutes, stirring frequently until they become soft and fragrant. This step infuses the dish with a sweet, savory aroma that complements the potatoes wonderfully.
Step 4: Cook the Potatoes with Butter and Oil
Add the potato wedges to the pan along with two tablespoons of oil. Mix everything together so that all the wedges get coated with the buttery onion mixture. Cover the pan with a dome-shaped lid and cook on medium-high heat for four to five minutes without stirring. This helps the potatoes develop a beautiful golden crust underneath.
Step 5: Continue Cooking on Medium Heat
Lower the heat to medium and let the potatoes cook for approximately 15 minutes. During this time, stir the potatoes every three to four minutes to ensure they brown evenly without burning. This patient step is crucial in achieving that perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
Step 6: Season the Potatoes
As the cooking nears its end, sprinkle the potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. These simple seasonings bring out the natural flavors, enhancing the overall dish without overpowering the gentle sweetness of the onion and richness of the butter.
Step 7: Test for Doneness
To check if your Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe is ready, attempt to break one of the larger potato pieces. It should break easily and feel tender inside. This is a foolproof way to ensure your potatoes are cooked through and still maintain their structure.
How to Serve Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh and vibrant touch, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or green onions over your pan-fried potatoes. These not only add eye-catching color but also infuse a fragrant, fresh bite that complements the dish’s warmth.
Side Dishes
This Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with a range of mains, including grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a simple fried egg. For a complete Ukrainian dining experience, serve them alongside traditional pickled vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your serving game up a notch by layering these golden potatoes with sour cream and a sprinkle of smoked paprika in a rustic bowl. You can also use them as a hearty base for toppings like sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon bits, or melted cheese for a comforting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have some leftover pan-fried potatoes, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty and fresh for up to three days, making for a quick reheat or easy addition to another meal.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not ideal for maintaining crispiness. If you want to freeze, spread cooked potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When reheating, use the oven or air fryer to help restore crunch.
Reheating
For the best reheated texture, avoid microwaving as it can make the potatoes soggy. Instead, warm them in a hot skillet with a little oil or use an air fryer to bring back that indulgent crispiness you originally fell in love with.
FAQs
Can I use red potatoes or sweet potatoes in this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes often use starchy potatoes, red or sweet potatoes can bring a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind sweet potatoes may cook faster and have a softer interior.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is traditional and helps achieve a smooth, crispy surface. However, if you enjoy the rustic texture and extra nutrients, you can leave the skins on after thoroughly washing the potatoes.
What type of oil works best for pan-frying?
Use oils with a high smoke point like vegetable, sunflower, or canola oil. They allow you to fry at the right temperature without burning the oil or potatoes.
Can I skip the onion if I don’t like it?
Yes, you can omit the onion completely. The dish will lose some sweetness and depth of flavor but remain deliciously crispy and satisfying.
How do I make the potatoes crispier?
Make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly before cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan, and cook uncovered towards the end to let moisture escape. Using the dome lid only during the initial browning stage also helps develop the crust.
Final Thoughts
This Ukrainian Pan-Fried Potatoes Recipe is a true celebration of simplicity done right. It’s a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each crispy, buttery bite, and enjoy the comfort of familiar flavors made extraordinary by a few heartfelt touches. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike.
