Depression-Era Crispy Potato Cakes (3 Ingredients)
A classic budget breakfast made with pantry basics — crispy outside, soft inside, and very filling.
Ingredients
2 cups mashed potatoes (cold leftover potatoes work best)
1 cup all-purpose flour
Salt to taste
Optional:
Butter or oil for frying
Instructions
In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes, flour, and a pinch of salt until a soft dough forms.
Divide into small portions and flatten into patties.
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or oil.
Fry patties 3–5 minutes per side until deep golden brown and crispy.
Serve hot.
Optional Old-School Additions
Many families also added:
Chopped onions
Black pepper
Bacon grease instead of butter
A little baking powder for fluffier cakes
Serving Ideas
With eggs
Drizzled with syrup
Alongside gravy
With applesauce or jam
