Crispy Potato Pancakes with Chive Sour Cream

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Golden-brown potato pancakes with a tender interior, topped with a fresh chive-infused sour cream for a perfect balance of textures. This ukrainian-inspired vegetarian ready in about 40 minutes layers russet, peeled and grated potatoes, finely diced onion, all-purpose flour into a dessert worth slowing down for — great for weekend baking, holiday tables, or any time you want a sweet payoff at the end of a meal. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so it slots into a weekend bake or a special-occasion dessert tray. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 25 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Ukrainian cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Squeeze excess moisture from grated potatoes using a clean kitchen towel, then transfer to a bowl.
  2. Step 2: Add diced onion, 2 tbsp flour, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 cup sour cream to the potatoes, mixing until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Step 4: Form potato mixture into 8 equal patties (about 3/4 inch thick) and place in skillet, pressing down gently.
  5. Step 5: Cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp, adding more oil if needed.
  6. Step 6: While pancakes cook, mix remaining 1 tbsp sour cream with 1 tbsp chopped chives.
  7. Step 7: Transfer pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil, then serve immediately with chive sour cream sauce.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Crispy Potato Pancakes with Chive Sour Cream take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (25 min prep + 15 min cook). Most home bakers find this fits a weekend afternoon; chill or store as the recipe directs before serving.

How do I store leftover Crispy Potato Pancakes with Chive Sour Cream?

Cool fully before storing. Most baked desserts keep at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cream- or custard-based desserts must go in the fridge within 2 hours; reheat gently or serve cold per the recipe.

Can I substitute ingredients in Crispy Potato Pancakes with Chive Sour Cream?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Crispy Potato Pancakes with Chive Sour Cream for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Crispy Potato Pancakes with Chive Sour Cream?

Ukrainian vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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