Deruny, also known as Ukrainian potato pancakes, are a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations.
These pancakes are made with finely grated raw potatoes, onion, flour, and eggs, resulting in a crispy and flavorful treat. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of making deruny, along with some tips and variations to make them even more delicious. So let’s dive into the world of deruny!
Ingredients for Deruny
To make deruny, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 medium-sized potatoes (about 1.5 lb)
- 1 onion
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream
- 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
- Pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Potato Pancakes Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes and onion. It’s important to keep the peeled potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you work on grating the rest.
Step 2: Grate the Potatoes and Onion
Take a big bowl and grate the potatoes and onion using the star-shaped side of a grater. This will create a fine texture that is ideal for deruny. Mixing the grated mixture as you go will prevent the potatoes from browning.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Once the potatoes and onion are grated, add the flour, egg, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix everything well until the batter is evenly combined. The batter should have a slightly liquid consistency, making it easy to ladle onto the skillet.
Step 4: Fry the Deruny
Heat a skillet with 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Using a ladle, drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the skillet. Fry the deruny on one side until golden brown, then flip them to cook the other side for the same amount of time. Repeat this process until you have used up all the batter.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the deruny are cooked to perfection, serve them warm. They are best enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream, which adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish. You can also get creative and serve them with other toppings, such as applesauce or smoked salmon. The options are endless!
Tips for Making Perfect Deruny
- To prevent the grated potatoes from browning, keep them in a bowl of cold water while you work on the rest of the ingredients.
- When grating the potatoes and onion, be careful not to damage your skin. It’s recommended to wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Use a mild-tasting oil, such as avocado oil or light olive oil, for frying the deruny. This will allow the flavor of the pancakes to shine without overpowering them.
- If you prefer a garlicky flavor, you can add a clove or two of freshly grated garlic to the batter. Chopped fresh dill can also be a delicious addition.
- Leftover deruny can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Variations and Serving Ideas
While the classic deruny recipe is simple and delicious on its own, there are a few variations you can try to add some extra flavor. Here are some ideas:
- Cheese and Herb Deruny: Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, and chopped herbs like parsley or dill to the batter for a cheesy and aromatic twist.
- Sweet Potato Deruny: Replace some or all of the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and vibrant variation.
- Vegetable Deruny: Mix grated carrots, zucchini, or beets into the batter for colorful and nutritious pancakes.
- Meat-filled Deruny: Make a pocket in each pancake and stuff it with cooked ground meat, such as beef or chicken, for a hearty and satisfying meal.
When it comes to serving deruny, the traditional way is to serve them with sour cream. However, you can also get creative and pair them with different toppings or side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Serve deruny alongside a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad for a light and refreshing combination.
- Smoked Salmon and Dill Cream: Top deruny with smoked salmon and a dollop of dill cream for an elegant and luxurious appetizer.
- Applesauce: Serve deruny with a side of homemade applesauce for a sweet and tangy contrast.
