Lithuanian delicacy: Potato pancakes with meat filling

Lithuanian-style pancakes are a true delicacy of borderland cuisine, gracing the tables of eastern Poland and Lithuania for generations. These are delicious potato pancakes with an aromatic meat filling, prized for their hearty and crispy texture. The secret to their unique taste is the well-prepared filling and achieving the perfect consistency in the pancakes. If you want to try this traditional dish at its best, check out this recipe.

The history of Lithuanian pancakes dates back to ancient times when potatoes became a staple of its cuisine. Cultivated since the 18th century, the vegetable quickly gained popularity and by the 19th century, it had become an indispensable element of the diet in the Sejny and Vilnius regions. At that time, homemakers used potatoes in various ways—from simple pancakes, to more exquisite dishes in which pancakes were stuffed with meat, creating an incredibly nourishing meal.

Lithuanian-style pancakes stand out among other potato pancakes primarily because they contain a tasty, well-seasoned meat filling. In many households, recipes are passed down from generation to generation, and each family has its own secret to preparing them. The key element is the right proportion of ingredients and slow frying over a moderate heat to achieve a golden and crispy crust.

To prepare homemade Lithuanian pancakes, you need a few simple ingredients:

• Just under 1 kg of potatoes,
• 2 eggs,
• 2 tablespoons of wheat flour,
• Around 350 g of ground pork or beef,
• 2 onions,
• Salt and pepper to taste,
• Oil for frying.

Preparation Method:

1. Preparing the potato batter – Peel the potatoes and grate them finely. Squeeze out the excess liquid so the mixture isn't too watery. Add one egg, flour, salt, and pepper, then mix thoroughly.
2. Preparing the filling – Finely chop the onion and sauté it in a pan. Add ground meat and fry until well browned. Season with salt and pepper, then add the second egg, mixing everything together.
3. Forming the pancakes – Place small portions of the potato mixture on a heated pan with a little oil to form pancakes. Put a portion of the meat filling on each pancake, then cover with another layer of the potato mixture.
4. Frying – Fry the Lithuanian pancakes on medium heat until golden on both sides. Then transfer them to a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes at 180°C to ensure the filling is heated evenly.
5. Serving – Serve the pancakes hot, preferably with a side of sour cream, mushroom sauce, or light natural yoghurt.

Lithuanian pancakes are an excellent way to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that combines the crispy texture of potato pancakes with juicy, aromatic meat. Thanks to their rich history and traditional preparation, they are a true culinary treasure worth rediscovering. If you're in the mood for a bit of Eastern cuisine, be sure to try this recipe.