Frank's Potato Pancakes

In my life, God often shows His grace and beauty when I least expect it. While I am thankful for the income and the incredible opportunity to work at wonderful places with wonderful people, sometimes it can get a little hairy with the schedules during the peak season. I maintain a few part time positions; when needed I prepare and serve breakfast at a beautiful bed and breakfast; then a few afternoons a week I work for a lovely lady doing administrative work at a cattle registry , and most evenings I go help my dear friend with barn work at her farm. It was one of those weeks where all three positions required my assistance. Lo and behold, in the midst of all the hub-bub, I was able to share in some special moments with two of the nicest guests I have ever had the pleasure of taking care of at the B&B. They stayed for four nights and on the morning of their departure, the gentleman, (Frank) was gracious enough to not only share his recipe, but also make his fabulous potato pancakes for us!
It all started one morning last week when I met the couple for the first time. AJ (Her full name is Andrea-just like me!) came down for a cup of coffee-she has the most gorgeous red hair and a matching smile and personality to go with it! Frank was not long behind her, and he was sporting a t shirt that made me think twice about saying anything..... He and AJ immediately made me feel at ease with their warm smiles and handshakes; I realized Frank is very much like my husband-they are just not that into socializing unless they feel like it. (I think I am going to look for a similar shirt for Rick.) On the other hand, my friend teased me and said I should have a shirt that was missing one of those words. It should say: "I'm here to talk."
I discovered they were down for bike week-I guess I figured that out when I arrived for work and found this beauty parked out front: I am all about my horse, but I suspect if I were to ever get a bike in my lifetime, it would look something like that. Come to find out, Frank is quite a chef. He loves to cook. His wife admits she is really spoiled with all his great recipes. AJ shared with me how everyone especially loves Frank's potato pancakes. They sounded so good, I of course had to have the recipe. And, much to my surprise and delight, Frank offered to be "guest chef" in the kitchen on Sunday. (I thought about making him wear one of our aprons for the event, but then I figured I wouldn't push it.) They were indeed worth waiting for-I can't wait to make these for my family; I brought some leftovers home to the girls and they were fighting over who would get the last one. I really wished I'd had a video camera to follow along with him as he was explaining everything to me-or written it down-unfortunately I was trying to multi-task at the same time Frank was doing this, so forgive me Frank if I don't get it quite right. (I am hoping he will jump in and help me with amounts if they aren't correct.)

So here it is:

Frank's Famous Potato Pancakes

Ingredients:

3 cups of Bisquick

approximately one cup of half and half

4 eggs

1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)

a pinch of salt

a pinch of pepper

a dash of garlic powder

3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil

One bag of shredded potatoes, (found in the produce section of most grocery stores-except for Gettysburg where we called three different stores and found they didn't carry them. I ended up getting unseasoned hash browns in the frozen section)


Mix all ingredients together in the order listed above. Heat skillet, coating with Pam or comparable vegetable oil spray. Frank likes to use a rectangular skillet. Pour batter into approximatley 6" rounds using a ladle or measuring cup for ease. Flip when bubbles appear; cakes should be golden brown when done. Serve with syrup, sour cream or jam. (Fresh fruit and eggs make great accompaniments,too.) Enjoy!

Sidenote: This recipe would serve about 6-8 people, so adjust accordingly

Thanks to Frank and AJ for visiting-we shared a great time and some good food .......
I told Frank I fully expect to see his face on the cooking channel or in the bookstore very soon. I think "The Biker Chef" would be a great title for his show. We're looking forward to more recipes soon, Frank! Until next time.......


Genesis 33:10
"what a relief to see your friendly smile. It is like seeing the face of God!"