Authentic Ukrainian Deruny (Potato Pancakes) Recipe

Ingredients

2 large potatoes
1 medium onion
2 eggs
1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1/2 cup of sour cream (for serving)
Fresh dill (for garnish)

Steps and instructions

Peel and grate the potatoes and onion into a large bowl.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, then add them to the potato and onion mixture.
Add the flour, salt, and pepper to the bowl, and mix everything together until well combined.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, scoop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the pan, flattening them with the back of the spoon.
Cook the pancakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the pancakes warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

Tools for making

Grater - Used to grate the potatoes and onion.
Large bowl - For mixing the grated vegetables with other ingredients.
Separate bowl - To beat the eggs before adding them to the mixture.
Frying pan - Used to cook the pancakes.
Spoon - For scooping and flattening the potato mixture in the pan.
Paper towels - To drain excess oil from the cooked pancakes.
Plate - To serve the pancakes.

Recipe variations

Adding grated cheese to the potato mixture for a cheesy twist.
Using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Incorporating minced garlic or garlic powder for a garlic-infused taste.
Replacing all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour alternative for a gluten-free version.
Adding chopped herbs such as parsley, chives, or basil to the potato mixture for added freshness.
Including cooked and crumbled bacon or diced ham for a savory and meaty version.
Experimenting with different spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or cumin to customize the flavor profile.
Using a combination of different potatoes like russet and Yukon gold for a varied texture.
Making a vegan version by replacing eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute.
Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to incorporate more veggies into the dish.

Recipe overview

Deruny, also known as Ukrainian potato pancakes, are a simple and delicious dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Made with grated potatoes and onions, combined with eggs, flour, and seasonings, these pancakes are pan-fried until golden brown and crispy. Each bite offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, with the soft, warm interior complementing the crunchy exterior perfectly. Served with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, they make for a versatile meal that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This recipe is easy to follow and will guide you step by step on how to make these tasty pancakes. Enjoy the process and the wonderful aroma that will fill your kitchen as they cook!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of potato? Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly depending on the potato variety you choose.
Can I make the deruny ahead of time? While it's best to serve the deruny immediately after cooking for the optimal texture, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or on a skillet before serving. This may result in a slightly different texture.
Can I freeze the leftover deruny? Yes, you can freeze the leftover deruny. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm them in the oven or on a skillet.
Can I substitute the sour cream? If you prefer, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar tangy flavor.
Can I make deruny gluten-free? Yes, you can make gluten-free deruny by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Be sure to check that all other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grater - Useful for grating the potatoes and onion.
Large bowl - Needed for mixing the ingredients together.
Separate bowl - For beating the eggs before adding them to the mixture.
Frying pan - Used to cook the deruny pancakes.
Spoon - To scoop and flatten the potato mixture in the pan.
Plate - To transfer the cooked pancakes onto and drain excess oil.
Paper towels - For lining the plate and absorbing excess oil from the pancakes.
Serving platter - To present and serve the deruny pancakes.
Spatula - For flipping the pancakes while cooking.

Origin stories

Deruny, or Ukrainian potato pancakes, trace their roots back to the traditional cuisine of rural Ukraine. In the past, during long, harsh winters, potatoes were one of the few ingredients readily available. Resourceful Ukrainian cooks turned these humble potatoes into a variety of dishes, one of them being Deruny. These pancakes were not only a way to fill hungry bellies but also to bring warmth and comfort to the household. They've been a cherished part of Ukrainian food culture ever since, often served at family gatherings and festive occasions. Nowadays, they're enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, a simple but delicious reminder of Ukraine's rich culinary heritage.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.