Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes Recipe

Few dishes capture the heart and soul of Ukrainian comfort food quite like Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes. Golden, crispy edges give way to the tender and savory goodness inside, all brought together by the humble magic of potatoes, onion, and a touch of sour cream. It’s nostalgia on a plate, a recipe passed down and shared among friends and family, and guaranteed to make any meal feel special. Get ready to discover why Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes are so beloved and how simple it is to bring a bit of Ukrainian tradition to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to whip up these irresistible pancakes. Each element is carefully chosen to create that iconic texture, deep flavor, and comforting aroma that make Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes unforgettable.

• Potatoes: The starchy base that forms the beloved crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
• Onion: Not just for flavor, but also to help the potatoes stay bright and to provide a moist, savory balance.
• Egg: Acts as the perfect binder, holding your pancakes together so they don’t fall apart in the pan.
• All-purpose flour: Just enough to bind, yet not so much that they lose their signature lightness.
• Sour cream: Adds a creamy tang to the batter, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and brings the whole dish to life.
• Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and a bit of background warmth.
• Cooking oil: Gives the pancakes their irresistible golden crust while keeping the insides tender.

How to Make Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes and Onion

Begin by peeling your potatoes and onion, setting the stage for a batter that’s as velvety as it is flavorful. Grate both, using a star-shaped grater if you have one for just the right texture. Mix them together straight away; the natural juices from the onion do wonders to prevent the potatoes from turning brown and keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Step 2: Make the Pancake Batter

Into your bowl of freshly grated potatoes and onion, stir in the flour, egg, and a hearty spoonful of sour cream. This fusion is what makes Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes so delightfully creamy yet crisp. Season with salt and black pepper, then mix until the batter is smooth and just runny enough to spoon. This consistency is your secret to cooking the pancakes evenly all the way through.

Step 3: Heat Up the Skillet

Pour a generous splash of cooking oil into a skillet and bring it to medium-high heat. You want that satisfying sizzle as soon as the batter hits the pan – that’s when you know your pancakes will turn out golden and crisp, just like Grandma made them.

Step 4: Fry the Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes

Carefully spoon a heaping tablespoon of batter into the hot oil for each pancake, spacing them apart so they don’t crowd each other. Let each side fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, flipping only when golden brown. Be patient; this is when the magic happens as the edges crisp up while the centers turn soft and luscious.

Step 5: Repeat and Keep Warm

Continue with the rest of your batter, adding a little more oil if the pan runs dry. Pile your finished pancakes on a plate lined with paper towels, and if you’re making a big batch, keep them warm in a low oven as you go. The aroma alone will have everyone circling the kitchen!

How to Serve Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, nothing beats a dollop of cold, creamy sour cream right on top of each hot pancake. Freshly chopped dill or chives also add a fragrant pop of color and extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a twist of black pepper can elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes are fantastic with a simple cucumber and tomato salad, or some pickled vegetables for a tangy crunch. They also pair beautifully with sautéed mushrooms or a light cabbage slaw, bringing a bit of brightness and balancing out the richness of the pancakes.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your pancakes high and serve family-style for a cozy, communal meal, or make mini deruny for a fun appetizer platter. For a brunch buffet, offer a variety of toppings—smoked salmon, chopped herbs, garlic sauce—so everyone can dress their deruny just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. They’ll stay moist and tasty, especially if you separate layers with parchment to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze deruny for a quick treat later. Arrange cooked, cooled pancakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months without losing their quintessential texture or flavor.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes in a skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil to revive their crispness. Alternatively, pop them in a hot oven for a few minutes. Microwaving is quick, but it may soften the pancakes, so save this only for quick snacks.

FAQs

Can I use a food processor instead of grating by hand?

Absolutely! For convenience, a food processor fitted with a grating blade works beautifully. Just be mindful not to over-process—you want small shreds, not mush, to achieve the authentic Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes texture.

What are the best potatoes to use?

Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold give the pancakes the perfect crunch on the outside and tenderness within. Waxy potatoes will work too, but the texture may be a bit denser.

Is it possible to make them gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or potato starch. The taste and crispness of your Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes will still shine through beautifully.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to prepare the batter just before frying so the potatoes don’t darken or release too much liquid. If you must prep ahead, keep the batter covered in the fridge and give it a good stir before cooking.

What sauces go well with Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes?

The classic pairing is rich, cool sour cream. But you can try applesauce for a sweet contrast, garlic dipping sauces, or even a little horseradish for extra zing—each one brings something special to the table!

Final Thoughts

Once you’ve tried making Deruny – Ukrainian Potato Pancakes, you’ll see that they’re more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of good ingredients and cherished family traditions. So gather your potatoes, invite a friend to help, and treat yourself to one of Ukraine’s most soul-warming dishes!

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