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Czech Potato Pancakes (Bramboráky) with Apple Sauce

These crispy Czech potato pancakes, known as Bramboráky, are a delightful breakfast or brunch. Made with grated potatoes and seasoned with garlic and marjoram, they are perfectly complemented by a side of sweet apple sauce.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Peel and grate the potatoes using the coarse side of a box grater. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess liquid as possible. This step is crucial for crispy pancakes.

02

In a large bowl, combine the squeezed grated potatoes, all-purpose flour, egg, minced garlic, dried marjoram, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

03

Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of a spoon to form pancakes about 3-4 inches in diameter.

04

Fry the potato pancakes for 4-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through.

05

Remove the cooked pancakes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining potato mixture, adding more vegetable oil to the skillet as needed.

06

Serve the hot Czech Potato Pancakes immediately with a generous side of apple sauce.

About This Recipe

These crispy Czech potato pancakes, known as Bramboráky, are a delightful breakfast or brunch. Made with grated potatoes and seasoned with garlic and marjoram, they are perfectly complemented by a side of sweet apple sauce.
Czech Potato Pancakes (Bramboráky) with Apple Sauce
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of caraway seeds to the potato mixture. Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the pancakes to achieve a crispy exterior.
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Easy Substitutions

If fresh marjoram is unavailable, use 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
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Storage & Reheating

Leftover potato pancakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until crispy again.

Serving Suggestions

These pancakes are excellent for breakfast or brunch. They can also be served as a savory side dish with roasted meats or a light lunch with a dollop of sour cream in addition to the apple sauce. For a heartier meal, pair them with a simple green salad.

Common Mistakes

1. Not squeezing enough liquid from the potatoes, leading to soggy pancakes. 2. Overcrowding the skillet, which lowers the oil temperature and prevents crisping. 3. Using too low heat, resulting in greasy pancakes instead of crispy ones. 4. Not seasoning the mixture adequately, making the pancakes bland. 5. Flipping the pancakes too often, which can break them apart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the potato mixture ahead of time?

It's best to cook the potato pancakes immediately after mixing, as the potatoes can oxidize and turn brown. If you must prepare ahead, keep the grated potatoes submerged in cold water until ready to mix, then drain and squeeze thoroughly.

What kind of potatoes are best for Bramboráky?

Starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho are ideal as they hold their shape well and get very crispy.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While traditionally fried, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown. They may not be as crispy as fried ones.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to truly crispy Bramboráky is removing as much moisture from the grated potatoes as possible. After grating, place the potatoes in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and twist tightly to wring out all the liquid. This prevents soggy pancakes and ensures a golden, crunchy texture. Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; cook in batches to maintain consistent oil temperature and allow for even browning.
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