Potato fritters are fried potatoes that have been battered and fried. They’re also known as potato cakes or potato scallops, and their preparation varies depending on where they’re made. In Scotland and New Zealand, where the side dish is frequently served with fish, the term potato fritter is commonly used.
In order to make a basic potato fritter batter, you’ll need potatoes, eggs, and flour. Baking powder may be required as well. Salt and pepper can be added to taste, but many chefs choose not to do so in order to keep their product simple and adaptable to a variety of dishes. The potatoes are usually mashed before cooking.
Most potato fritter recipes can be tweaked to suit your preferences. Some cooks prefer to use meat in their recipes, such as pork or beef. For flavor and texture, a variety of vegetables, such as corn or onions, can be added.
Another common addition to potato cakes is peppers.
The basic ingredients used in potato fritter recipes can also be changed. Sweet potatoes, for example, can be substituted for russet or any other variety of potato that a recipe calls for. The batter ingredients and some type of tuber are the only constants in a successful potato fritter recipe.
Spices ranging from fennel to garlic may also be added. Some people like their potato cakes spicy, so they add ingredients like chili powder or cayenne pepper. Others, on the other hand, prefer cheesy fritters. A creamier fritter can be made by adding something smooth, such as sour cream, and an extra crunchy potato cake can be made by frying the fritters twice.
To make potato fritters, cooks usually combine all of the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. The mixture is then rolled into bite-size balls and deep-fried in a skillet or deep fryer. The fritters are removed from the heat and allowed to cool once they have reached a golden brown color. To ensure the best possible taste, any excess oil is blotted or drained from the fritters. They can be substituted for fries in any traditional meal, ranging from hamburgers to fish and chips.
It’s not uncommon to see potato fritters served with a savory dip. Each chef’s dip is unique, but common ingredients include cheese, cream, and seasonings. From garlic aioli to ketchup, any prepared dips or dressings can be purchased and used as desired. Sour cream can also be used as a tasty garnish for potato fritter servings.