Bird Flanagan Irish Potato Pancakes

Recipe adapted from Elegant Irish Cooking by Noel Cullen

~from Savoring Time in the Kitchen

Serves 2-4

2 large potatoes 

2 whole eggs

2-4 slices lean Canadian bacon (depending on thickness)

1 tablespoon chopped green onion 

1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley 

2 tablespoons grated sharp cheddar cheese 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 

2 tablespoons vegetable oil 

Peel and grate the potatoes.  Squeeze out excess moisture by placing the grated potatoes in a ricer and pressing down on the handle to release as much moisture as possible. Place in a bowl. 

Slice the Canadian bacon into thin strips (julienne) and add to the potatoes along with the diced onion, parsley, cheese and salt and pepper to taste (I like lots of pepper).  Combine thoroughly. 

Lightly beat the eggs and add to the potato mixture. 

In a crepe pan or nonstick sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat. Pour the mixture into the heated pan and press down to spread it out evenly and cook on both sides, until golden brown. This should take about 10 minutes.  You can use a large plate inverted over the pan to help flip the pancake. I placed a cover, slightly ajar, over the pan during the last few minutes to help the potatoes cook through.