Depression-Era Ham Potato Patties (Printable Version)

Savory crispy patties combining ham, mashed potatoes, onions, and herbs for a comforting dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 2 cups mashed potatoes (approximately 12.3 oz), cooked and cooled

→ Meats

02 - 1 cup cooked ham, finely chopped (5.3 oz)

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

03 - 1 small onion, finely diced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

→ Pantry & Bindings

05 - 1 large egg
06 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (1.4 oz), plus extra for dusting
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ For Frying

09 - 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or unsalted butter

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend mashed potatoes, chopped ham, diced onion, parsley if used, egg, flour, salt, and black pepper until a thick, even mixture forms.
02 - With floured hands, form the mixture into eight patties measuring approximately 2.5 inches in diameter and 0.5 inch thickness; lightly dust each with flour.
03 - Preheat vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
04 - Cook patties in batches, avoiding overcrowding, frying each side for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
05 - Transfer the cooked patties onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Uses affordable, leftover ingredients
  • Hearty and satisfying for any meal
02 -
  • These patties can be customized with other meats or vegetables you have on hand
  • Use gluten-free flour if you need to avoid wheat
03 -
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or dried herbs
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to keep patties crispy
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