Potato Pancakes with Savory Beef and Cheese

Ingredients:

For the Pancakes:
– 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and grated
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Additional:
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pancakes:
1. Grate the potatoes and squeeze out any excess liquid using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, eggs, flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Cook the Filling:
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Season with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Assemble the Pancakes:
1. Take a handful of the potato mixture and flatten it into a thin pancake shape.
2. Add a spoonful of the beef filling on top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
3. Cover the filling with another layer of the potato mixture and seal the edges to form a stuffed pancake.

Cook the Pancakes:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Carefully place the stuffed pancakes into the pan and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Serve:
1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade potato pancakes!