National Dish Ukraine: Deruny with Mushrooms (Recipe)
In this article
Treat yourself to one of Ukraine’s most comforting classics: Deruny with Mushrooms! These crispy potato pancakes are shot through with finely chopped mushrooms that lend them a savoury, deeply aromatic character. Golden on the outside and tender within, they work beautifully as a hearty main or a generous side. With a little care in the pan, you can bring the honest, homely flavours of Ukraine straight to your own table.
About Deruny with Mushrooms
Deruny are crispy potato pancakes that have their roots in Ukrainian cuisine. They are often enriched with finely chopped mushrooms, which give them an aromatic, savoury depth. These traditional pancakes are not only delicious but also wonderfully versatile, enjoyed just as happily as a side dish as they are as a main course. With the right preparation, you can capture the authentic taste of Ukraine and serve up a plateful of pure comfort.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 3 large potatoes
- 200 g fresh mushrooms (such as button mushrooms)
- 1 small onion
- 1 egg
- 100 g flour (or gluten-free flour)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for deruny are easy to find in most supermarkets. Look out for fresh potatoes and fresh mushrooms to draw out the very best flavour. For the finest result, buy your onions fresh, as they lend the pancakes a pleasant sweetness. If you would rather use a gluten-free flour alternative, there are now plenty of options readily available on the shelves.
Preparing the dish
Begin by prepping the ingredients: peel the potatoes and grate them coarsely. The onion can be chopped and fried together with the mushrooms until golden brown. It is important to drain the grated potatoes thoroughly to remove any excess moisture. These steps are what ensure your deruny turn out beautifully crispy.
Step-by-step instructions
- Coarsely grate the peeled potatoes and tip them into a sieve to let the liquid drain away.
- In a pan, fry the chopped onions and mushrooms until golden brown.
- Put the drained potatoes into a bowl and add the fried onion-and-mushroom mixture.
- Add the egg and the flour, season with salt and pepper, and mix everything together well.
- Heat oil in a pan, spoon in portions of the potato mixture, and fry until golden brown on both sides.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of deruny, use gluten-free flour, which many supermarkets now stock. That way, people with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance can enjoy this tasty dish too. If you would like to prepare a lactose-free version, simply use a plant-based oil or alternative for frying. The pleasure stays intact, and you needn’t give up any of the ingredients you love.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegan versions of deruny are simple to make: swap the egg for a flaxseed replacer or a plant-based egg substitute. This gives you similar binding properties without any animal products. Just take care that the oils and flours you use are suitable for vegans too. That way you can enjoy these delicious potato pancakes in a fully vegan form.
More tips and tricks
To achieve the perfect deruny texture, it is important to dry the potatoes well before adding them to the mixture. Beyond that, spices or fresh herbs such as dill or parsley can be added to intensify the flavours. Use plenty of oil in the pan to make sure the pancakes brown evenly. Experiment with different varieties of mushroom for extra taste variations — a trick that also works wonders in a bowl of Kasha with Mushrooms.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The deruny recipe leaves plenty of room for adjustment. You can add other vegetables such as courgette or carrot to boost the nutritional value. Using different types of flour can also lead to new textures and flavours. Be creative and try out whatever appeals to you most, so you can craft your very own favourite version of the dish.
Ingredient substitutions
If you don’t have the classic ingredients to hand, there are many alternatives. For the potato element, you could also use sweet potatoes, which lend the pancakes a distinctive sweetness. Instead of onions, try spring onions or leeks for a different flavour profile — much like the twist in the closely related Deruny with Sour Cream. Variations like these can be tailored to your personal preference and open the door to fresh culinary discoveries.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs well with deruny, with traditional Ukrainian vodka a popular choice. If you prefer something a little less strong, serve a chilled lager or a refreshing sparkling water. A fruity red or a crisp, lively white wine also complements the savoury aromas of the potato pancakes very nicely. Choose your drink based on your mood and your taste!
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of deruny can be lifted with pretty plates and sides such as fresh salads or yoghurt dips. A few fresh herbs scattered on top make the dish especially appealing. A squeeze of lemon juice over the finished pancakes adds an extra hit of freshness. Use your creativity to present the dish beautifully and impress your guests!
A bit of history
Deruny are a traditional Ukrainian dish that has been prepared for centuries. Originally a simple peasant meal, these potato pancakes have grown into a delicacy that is popular in both rural and urban areas. Their appeal owes as much to their versatility as to their flavour. Whether as a quick meal at home or as part of a festive spread, deruny are a firm fixture of Ukrainian cuisine and its rich food culture.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Deruny with Mushrooms
Deruny are a wonderful example of the delicious and varied Ukrainian cuisine. These crispy potato pancakes, enriched with aromatic mushrooms, are both easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable in their choice of ingredients. They offer not only hearty flavour but also charming good looks, and can be enjoyed as a versatile meal or a satisfying snack. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a little slice of Ukrainian life, served straight to your table!
