Potato Balls Or Cakes
Crispy potato balls or cakes with a hint of onion and spice, perfect as snacks or side dishes for comforting meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the leftover creamed potatoes, chopped onion, salt, pepper, red pepper, and enough flour to make a slightly thick mixture.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into hot vegetable oil and fry until golden brown, or shape into cakes and pan-fry until crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding grated cheese or herbs like chives or parsley to the potato mixture. If the mixture is too wet, adjust by adding a bit more flour until it holds together well. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these potato balls or cakes warm with a side of sour cream or applesauce filling for dipping. They pair beautifully with Irish Crunchy Brown Bread for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a fresh salad or sautéed vegetables, providing a delightful contrast to the crispy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover potato balls or cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as they may become soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Balls Or Cakes contains roughly 15 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 491mg per serving (21% 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 use fresh potatoes instead of leftover creamed potatoes?
Yes, you can use freshly mashed potatoes, but you'll need to adjust the seasoning and possibly the thickness by adding cream or butter to mimic the consistency of creamed potatoes. This will help achieve a similar flavor and texture in the final dish.
What oil is best for frying these potato balls?
Vegetable oil is ideal for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. However, you can also use canola or peanut oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a lower smoke point and may impart a strong flavor to the dish.
Can I make these potato cakes in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to a day before frying. For best results, shape them into balls or cakes just before frying to maintain their texture and prevent them from becoming too watery.
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).