Potato pancakes, also known as latkes, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or even as a main course. Here’s a basic recipe for making potato pancakes:

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled
• 1 onion
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Optional Additions:

• Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives)
• Grated cheese
• Garlic powder
• Paprika

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes and Onion:
   • Grate the peeled potatoes using a box grater or a food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a large bowl.
   • Grate the onion and add it to the bowl with the potatoes. If the grated potatoes release a lot of liquid, you can use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out some of the moisture.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   • To the grated potatoes and onion, add the beaten eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like herbs or cheese, incorporate them into the mixture.
3. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Form the Pancakes:
   • Take a heaping tablespoon of the potato mixture and flatten it in your hands to form a pancake shape. Carefully place it into the hot oil. You can also use a spoon to drop the mixture into the pan and flatten it with the back of the spoon.
5. Fry the Pancakes:
   • Fry the pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if necessary.
6. Drain and Serve:
   • Place the cooked pancakes on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
   • Serve the potato pancakes hot, and you can optionally garnish them with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite toppings.

Enjoy these crispy and flavorful potato pancakes as a side dish or a tasty snack!