Hungarian Potato Pancakes

You’re going to love these! Hungarian Potato Pancakes (called “Tócsni”, “Lepény”, or “Cicege” depending on the region) are golden, crispy, and simple. Similar to other European potato pancakes, but with their own rustic flavor, they’re typically seasoned with garlic and sometimes served with sour cream or even cheese.

🇭🇺 Hungarian Potato Pancakes (Tócsni)

🍽️ Servings: 4–6

⏱️ Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 20 min

📝 Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 4 large) potatoes, peeled

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced or grated

• 2 large eggs

• 4–5 tbsp all-purpose flour (adjust as needed)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, but traditional in Hungarian cooking)

• Oil for frying (vegetable or sunflower oil)

Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream or grated cheese mixed into the batter for added richness

🔥 Instructions:

1. Grate the Potatoes:

• Use the large holes on a box grater to coarsely grate the potatoes.

• Place the grated potato in a clean towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.

2. Mix the Batter:

• In a large bowl, combine:

  • Grated potatoes

  • Minced garlic

  • Eggs

  • Flour

  • Salt, pepper, and paprika (if using)

• Stir until a thick but spoonable batter forms.

  If it’s too wet, add a bit more flour.

3. Fry the Pancakes:

• Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Drop 2–3 tablespoons of batter per pancake into the pan and flatten slightly with a spoon.

• Fry for about 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Serve Immediately:

• Best served hot and crisp.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Classic: With sour cream or garlic sour cream dip

• Savory: Top with cheese, sautéed mushrooms, or fried eggs

• Hungarian-style: Serve alongside goulash or pörkölt (meat stew)

• Sweet twist: Sprinkle with a little sugar and serve with jam (yes, it’s a thing!)

🥡 Tips & Storage:

• Eat them fresh — they lose crispness when stored.

• Reheat in a hot pan or toaster oven to bring back some crunch.

• Add finely grated zucchini or onion for variety.