These Crispy Vegan Potato Cakes are golden on the outside, creamy on the inside, and filled with a savory leek mixture that’s bursting with flavor. Paired with a tangy mustard yogurt dip, this dish is perfect for appetizers, brunch, or even as a light main course. With their crispy exterior and rich filling, these potato cakes are sure to impress vegans and non-vegans alike!
Prep Time
- 30 minutes
Cook Time
- 45 minutes
Total Time
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
- 8 potato cakes
Ingredients
For the Potato Mixture:
- 600g (1¼ pounds) floury potatoes (such as Russet or King Edward)
- 2 tablespoons potato starch or cornstarch
- Salt and white pepper , to taste
- Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
- 100g (1 cup) fine breadcrumbs , for coating
- Vegetable oil , for frying or brushing
For the Leek Filling:
- 1 medium leek , white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove , minced
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for umami depth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil , for sautéing
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram (or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley)
For the Mustard Yogurt Dip:
- 150g (⅔ cup) thick vegan yogurt (such as coconut or soy-based)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
- Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into evenly sized chunks for uniform cooking.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for approximately 20 minutes , or until completely tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain thoroughly and allow the potatoes to cool slightly until safe to handle.
- Pass the potatoes through a potato ricer or mash until completely smooth with no lumps.
- Allow the mashed potatoes to cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Making the Leek Filling
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes , until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds , until fragrant.
- Add the thinly sliced leek to the pan and sauté for 5–6 minutes , until tender and lightly caramelized.
- Season with salt , pepper , and marjoram . Stir in the nutritional yeast (if using) for added depth of flavor.
- Remove from heat and allow the leek mixture to cool completely.
Step 3: Assembling the Potato Cakes
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F/Gas Mark 6) .
- Season the cooled mashed potatoes with salt , white pepper , and a pinch of nutmeg . Mix in the potato starch or cornstarch until well incorporated.
- With wet hands, divide the potato mixture into 8 equal portions . Form each portion into a ball, then create a well in the center with your thumb.
- Fill each well with a spoonful of the leek mixture . Carefully seal the potato around the filling, ensuring no leek mixture is exposed.
- Shape each filled potato cake into neat patties or rounds.
Step 4: Coating and Baking
- Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.
- Gently roll each potato cake in the breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the coated potato cakes on a lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray the tops with oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 25 minutes , turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Preparing the Dip
- While the potato cakes bake, whisk together all dip ingredients in a small bowl: vegan yogurt , Dijon mustard , lemon juice , and ketchup .
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill the dip until ready to serve.
Step 6: Serving
- Serve the crispy vegan potato cakes warm with the mustard yogurt dip on the side.
- Garnish the dip with fresh herbs if desired.
Pro Tips
- Potato Choice: Use starchy potatoes like Russet or King Edward for a fluffy texture that holds together well.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the potato cakes ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked potato cakes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Potato Cake, based on 8 cakes)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fats: 7g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Crispy Vegan Potato Cakes are a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The golden, crunchy exterior gives way to a creamy potato layer and a rich, savory leek filling. Paired with the tangy mustard yogurt dip, they’re a satisfying and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving comfort food, these potato cakes are sure to please.
Ready to whip up a batch of crispy, creamy goodness? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and utterly irresistible—it’s comfort food reimagined!