Cheesy Korean Potato Fritters (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For Pancake Mixture

01 - 400g (14oz) russet potatoes, peeled and grated (or mashed for smoother texture)
02 - ¼ cup (34g) cornstarch
03 - ½ teaspoon salt
04 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
05 - 2 large green onions, finely chopped (reserve some for garnish)
06 - 1 cup (120g) mozzarella cheese, grated (or substitute cheddar or pecorino)

→ For Cooking

07 - Cooking oil for frying

# Instructions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated (or mashed) potatoes, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and most of the chopped green onions, reserving some for garnish. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
02 - Add the grated mozzarella cheese to the potato mixture and stir until evenly distributed. If using mashed potatoes, you can alternatively shape the mixture into balls and tuck cheese in the center for a gooey surprise.
03 - Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a thin layer of cooking oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
04 - Scoop a generous spoonful of the potato mixture onto the hot pan. Gently flatten it with the back of the spoon to form a round pancake shape about ¼-inch thick. Leave space between pancakes if cooking multiple at once.
05 - Let the pancakes cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. The edges should start to look set.
06 - Carefully flip each pancake using a spatula. Cook the second side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
07 - If desired, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top of each pancake during the last minute of cooking. Cover the pan briefly to help the cheese melt completely.
08 - Remove the finished pancakes to a serving plate. Garnish with the reserved chopped green onions. Serve immediately while hot and the cheese is still melty.

# Notes:

01 - These crispy-on-the-outside, cheesy-on-the-inside Korean potato pancakes (Gamjajeon) make a delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish.
02 - For best results, squeeze out excess moisture from grated potatoes before mixing with other ingredients - this ensures crispy pancakes.
03 - While traditionally served as is, these pancakes pair wonderfully with a simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.
04 - You can add other ingredients to the mixture such as chopped ham, bacon bits, or finely diced vegetables for variation.