Bleenies
Bleenies are savory potato pancakes with a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, flavorful comfort foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grate the potatoes and onion.
- Add the egg, baking powder, flour, milk, and salt to the grated mixture.
- Mix until you achieve a pancake-like consistency, adding more flour if needed.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter slowly into hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown on both sides, then drain and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter. If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk. For additional flavor, finely chop some herbs like dill or chives and mix them in. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the bleenies from absorbing too much oil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve bleenies hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for a delightful contrast. They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or even as a side dish to a hearty stew. For a comforting meal, enjoy them alongside American recipes like Wild String Bean Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bleenies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bleenies contains roughly 894 calories, with 14g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1058mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to fry them fresh. If the batter thickens, you may need to add a little more milk before frying.
What type of oil is best for frying bleenies?
For frying bleenies, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without burning too quickly.
Can I freeze bleenies?
Yes, you can freeze bleenies after frying. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake them directly from the freezer in a preheated oven until heated through and crispy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).