Entree: Ukraine – Kyiv & Central Ukraine – Деруни ➤ Deruny (Ukrainian pan-fried grated potato pancakes)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 8 min

Total 18 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (450 g) russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small yellow onion, approx. 4 oz (115 g), grated
- 1 large egg, approx. 50 g
- 2 tbsp (16 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5 g) fine salt
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) vegetable oil for frying, plus extra as needed
- 1 tbsp (15 g) butter optional, for finishing
- 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream for serving
- 2 tbsp (8 g) fresh dill, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Combine and drain: Grate potatoes and onion into a large bowl and press out as much liquid as possible using a clean towel or fine sieve; reserve the liquid briefly if you want to remove starch. Transfer grated vegetables to a bowl, add the egg, flour, salt, and pepper, and mix to a thick batter that holds together when pressed.
2. Fry and serve: Heat 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Drop 2-3 tbsp (30-45 ml) portions of batter into the pan, flattening into 1/3–1/2 inch (8–12 mm) rounds. Fry until deep golden and crisp, about 3–4 minutes per side, adding more oil between batches. Drain on paper towels, brush with butter if using, and serve hot with sour cream and chopped dill.