Deruny

Deruny Recipe - Authentic Ukrainian Potato Pancakes

Region / culture: Ukraine | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Deruny, also known as Ukrainian potato pancakes, are a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a side dish. These crispy and savory pancakes are made with grated potatoes, onions, flour, eggs, and seasonings, and are typically served with a dollop of sour cream and cream on top.

History

Deruny have been a staple in Ukrainian cuisine for centuries, with variations of the dish being enjoyed by families throughout the country. The recipe is believed to have originated in rural Ukraine, where potatoes were a common and affordable ingredient. Over time, deruny have become a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients

1 large onion, grated
7 potatoes, peeled and finely grated
2 tbsp flour
2 eggs
2 tsp salt
0.75 tsp black pepper
200 g sour cream
200 g cream

How to prepare

In a large bowl, use a mixer to puree the ingredients except for the sour cream and cream.
Alternatively, you can also use a food processor or a blender for this step.
Heat oil in a skillet and when it is hot, drop large spoonfuls of the mixture into the skillet.
Cook until browned on one side.
Flip and cook the other side until browned as well.
Once cooked, remove the mixture from the skillet, drain any excess oil, and keep it warm in the oven.
In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream and cream together.
Serve the mixture warm, topped with a generous dollop of the cream mixture.

Variations

Add grated cheese to the pancake mixture for a cheesy twist.
Mix in chopped herbs such as dill or parsley for added flavor.
Serve the deruny with smoked salmon and a dollop of creme fraiche for a luxurious twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the grated potatoes before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will help the pancakes crisp up nicely.

- Use a non-stick skillet and heat it well before adding the pancake mixture to ensure that they cook evenly and don't stick to the pan.

- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the pancakes. Leave enough space between each pancake to allow for even cooking.

- Serve the deruny immediately after cooking to enjoy them at their crispiest and most delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Deruny can be served as a main dish with a side salad or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. They are also delicious with applesauce or cranberry sauce on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to quickly grate the potatoes and onions for the pancake mixture.

- Make sure to flip the pancakes carefully to avoid breaking them apart.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use gluten-free flour or almond flour as a substitute for regular flour.

- Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream for a lighter topping.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pancake mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Just make sure to mix the sour cream and cream right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the deruny on a platter with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a sweet and savory contrast. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Deruny pair well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer. They also go well with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover deruny can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of deruny contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of deruny contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of deruny contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of deruny contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Deruny are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

Deruny contain eggs and dairy (sour cream and cream), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Deruny are a delicious and satisfying dish that is relatively low in calories and high in carbohydrates. They are a good source of essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium.

Summary

Deruny are a classic Ukrainian dish that is easy to make and incredibly delicious. With a crispy exterior and a soft interior, these potato pancakes are perfect for any meal of the day. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream and cream for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Deruny. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Olga in her quaint little village in Ukraine. Olga was a master in the kitchen, and she had promised to teach me how to make one of her favorite dishes - Deruny, also known as Ukrainian potato pancakes.

As we gathered the ingredients together, Olga began to tell me the story of how she learned to make Deruny from her own grandmother many years ago. She described how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully peeling and grating the potatoes, mixing in the flour and eggs, and then frying the pancakes to perfection.

I was mesmerized by Olga's storytelling and couldn't wait to try my hand at making Deruny myself. As we worked side by side in the kitchen, Olga guided me through each step of the recipe, sharing tips and tricks that had been passed down through generations.

The scent of frying potatoes filled the air, and I could hardly contain my excitement as we flipped the pancakes to reveal their golden brown crust. Olga smiled warmly at me, her eyes twinkling with pride as she watched me take my first bite of the delicious Deruny.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I knew that I had to learn more about Ukrainian cuisine and the traditional recipes that were so deeply rooted in Olga's family history. I spent the rest of my visit soaking up as much knowledge as I could, taking notes on recipes and techniques that I could bring back home with me.

When I returned to my own kitchen, I wasted no time in recreating the magic of Olga's Deruny. I carefully peeled and grated the potatoes, mixed in the flour and eggs, and fried the pancakes until they were crispy and golden. The taste brought me right back to that sunny day in Olga's kitchen, and I knew that I had found a recipe that would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my technique for making Deruny, experimenting with different seasonings and toppings to create my own unique twist on the traditional dish. I shared the recipe with friends and family, delighting in their reactions as they tasted the crispy, flavorful pancakes for the first time.

Each time I make Deruny, I feel a connection to Olga and her grandmother, to the generations of women who have passed down this recipe with love and care. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from Olga and to carry on the tradition of making this beloved Ukrainian dish in my own kitchen.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of freshly made Deruny, I can't help but smile at the memories of that summer day in Olga's village. The warmth of the kitchen, the laughter shared over a meal, and the sense of community that comes from cooking together - these are the things that make a recipe truly special.

And so, as I savor each bite of my delicious Deruny, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to honor the traditions of the past. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from Olga and her grandmother, and I look forward to sharing the magic of Deruny with many more generations to come.