Traditional Deruny Recipe

2022-10-31

By Ukrainian Recipes

Ukrainian Cuisine

Main Course

Learn how to make traditional Ukrainian deruny with this easy recipe. These potato pancakes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor. 

Crispy Potato Delight

The dish is made of grated potatoes, eggs, and flour, which are mixed together to form a thick batter. Small scoops of batter are then fried in oil until crispy and golden brown. Deruny are often served with sour cream or applesauce on top. Deruny are a simple and satisfying dish that has been a part of Ukrainian cuisine for centuries. 

What to do with Potato Leftovers?

They were originally made as a way to use up leftover potatoes and have since become a beloved staple of Ukrainian cuisine. Also known as draniki or potato pancakes, are a popular Ukrainian dish that originated in the central and eastern regions of Ukraine, particularly in the areas around the cities of Kyiv and Chernihiv. 

Street Food Favorite

In addition to being a popular home-cooked dish, deruny are also a common street food in Ukraine and can be found at outdoor markets and food stands throughout the country. They are often served as a quick snack or lunchtime meal.

Pitfalls on Deruny

 Choosing the right potatoes: The quality of potatoes used in making Deruny is crucial to the success of the dish. Potatoes with a high starch content are ideal, as they help the Deruny hold their shape while frying. Russet potatoes are a good option.

 Grating the potatoes: Grating the potatoes finely is important for achieving the right consistency. Potatoes that are not grated finely enough can result in a mixture that's too wet and runny. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the potatoes before mixing with other ingredients.

 Mixing the batter: The ingredients for Deruny batter are simple, consisting of grated potatoes, flour, eggs, salt, and pepper. The trick is to mix the batter thoroughly so that all the ingredients are well combined. Adding flour a little at a time while mixing can help achieve the desired consistency.

 Frying the Deruny: Frying the Deruny can be challenging, as you want them to be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. Heat the oil to the right temperature - too low, and they'll absorb oil, too high, and they'll burn. Flip them only once and don't overcrowd the pan to ensure they cook evenly.

 Serving: Deruny are traditionally served with a dollop of sour cream or apple sauce. Be sure to serve the Deruny hot and fresh from the frying pan to ensure they retain their crispy texture. Deruny can also be reheated in the oven, covered with foil, to maintain their texture.

Ingredients

• 2 large potatoes, grated

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 eggs

• 3 tbsp flour

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.

2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, finely chopped onion, eggs, flour, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.

4. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil and flatten with the back of a spoon to form pancakes.

5. Fry the deruny for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. Remove the deruny from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Serve hot with sour cream or applesauce.

8. Enjoy your delicious homemade deruny!

Preparation Time: 20 min

Cook Time: 30 min

Total Time: 50 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 200

Fat: 10 g

Saturated Fat: 2 g

Carbohydrates: 20 g

Fiber: 2 g

Sugar: 1 g

Protein: 5 g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Deruny

Polissya-style Deruny: Known as "Polisske Deruny", this version includes grated potatoes, finely chopped onions, and a bit of flour in the mixture. It is typically served with sour cream and a side of sautéed mushrooms.

Bukovyna-style Deruny: Called "Bukovynske Deruny", this version uses grated potatoes, finely chopped onions, and grated cheese in the mixture. It is typically served with a side of pickled vegetables and sour cream.

Podillia-style Deruny: Known as "Podilskye Deruny", this version includes cooked and mashed beans or lentils in the mixture for added protein. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and chopped fresh herbs.

Hutsul-style Deruny: Called "Hutsulske Deruny", this version includes grated potatoes, finely chopped onions, and grated carrots in the mixture. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and roasted vegetables.

Transcarpathian-style Deruny: Known as "Zakarpatske Deruny", this version includes grated potatoes, finely chopped onions, and grated parsnips or carrots in the mixture. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and pickled beets.

Kyiv-style Deruny: Called "Kyivske Deruny", this version includes grated potatoes and finely chopped onions, but also includes diced ham or cooked sausage in the mixture. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and steamed vegetables.

Volyn-style Deruny: Known as "Volynske Deruny", this version includes grated potatoes, finely chopped onions, and peas or corn in the mixture. It is typically served with a side of sour cream and a tomato and cucumber salad.

Try this easy recipe for traditional Ukrainian deruny and enjoy it as a main course! Share your delicious dish on your socials with the following hashtags #deruny #Ukrainiancuisine #potatopancakes #traditionalrecipe #Ukrainianfood