There’s nothing quite like the delightful scent of frying potatoes wafting through the kitchen—a fragrance that instantly brings warmth and nostalgia. When I first tried making latkes during Hanukkah, I never anticipated how easily I would fall in love with these golden, crispy potato pancakes. They’re more than just a dish; they symbolize heritage and a special time spent with loved ones.
With their crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior, these latkes blend the heartiness of hash browns with the comforting familiarity of potato pancakes. They’re effortlessly exciting and can transform any gathering into a culinary celebration. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this simple latke recipe promises success. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not just delicious but rich in tradition. Let’s dive into this cherished recipe!
Why are latkes a must-try dish?
Crispy texture: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, making them irresistible!
Traditional roots: These latkes bring a piece of Jewish heritage right to your table, perfect for Hanukkah celebrations.
Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is accessible for both novice and experienced cooks.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at family gatherings or casual get-togethers, latkes are sure to impress and delight everyone.
Versatile serving: Pair them with sour cream, applesauce, or even fresh herbs to cater to your taste and elevate the experience.
Time-efficient: You can whip up these golden delights in no time, perfect for those busy holiday festivities!
Latkes Ingredients
For the Latkes
• Yellow Onion – Adds flavor and moisture; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
• Russet or Idaho Potatoes – Provides structure and crispiness; avoid waxy potatoes for the best texture.
• Large Egg – Binds the mixture together; for a vegan option, replace with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer.
• Matzo Meal – Acts as a binding agent for a crispy texture; can use breadcrumbs but expect slight flavor changes.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt or table salt can be used in lower amounts for substitution.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning; white pepper can be a good alternative for a milder taste.
• Neutral Oil (for frying) – Essential for cooking; choose vegetable or canola oil to avoid low smoke point issues of olive oil.
These ingredients come together to make the most delicious latkes, creating that signature crispy exterior and fluffy interior you crave during festive gatherings!
How to Make Latkes
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Prep Ingredients: Shred the onion and scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt. To save time, you can use a food processor to efficiently shred everything!
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Remove Excess Moisture: Place the shredded potatoes and onions into a clean towel, then wring out the liquid into a bowl. Don’t forget to reserve the potato starch; this will help with the texture!
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the egg until fluffy. Then, add the reserved potato starch followed by the potato-onion mixture, matzo meal, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is combined nicely.
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Heat Oil: In a cast iron pan, heat about 1/4-inch deep of oil to 350°F. This temperature is crucial for that golden-brown crispiness.
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Form and Fry Latkes: Shape the mixture into 3.5-inch patties carefully. Fry them in batches for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until each side is golden.
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Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked latkes to a wire rack to drain excess oil, then sprinkle with a little salt. Serve these delights immediately with your favorite accompaniments like sour cream or applesauce for a delightful touch!
Optional: For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh dill before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These latkes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shred the potatoes and onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container with a little water to prevent browning. Additionally, you can mix the egg, reserved potato starch, matzo meal, salt, and pepper ahead of time, refrigerating this mixture for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, heat your oil to the correct temperature, and fry until golden brown. This prep will save you time on busy weeknights while still delivering delicious, restaurant-quality latkes that your family will love!
Latkes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to tailor these beloved latkes to your taste and dietary preferences—there’s a world of delicious possibilities waiting for you!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or chives to the mixture for an aromatic twist. The freshness of the herbs complements the potato beautifully!
- Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter, vibrant alternative. This variation not only adds color but provides a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for heat. A little spice elevates the flavor and adds excitement to each bite.
- Cheesy Delights: Fold in shredded cheese such as cheddar or feta for a savory twist. Melting cheese creates a luscious layer of flavor that everyone will love!
- Vegan Delight: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal slurry (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). This makes them entirely vegan while maintaining that crispy allure.
- Zucchini Latkes: Mix grated zucchini into the potato mixture for added moisture and nutrients. This brings an interesting texture and a subtle taste that pairs wonderfully with the potatoes.
- Whole Wheat Boost: Swap out matzo meal with whole wheat flour for a heartier option. This adds nutritional value while keeping them deliciously crispy.
- Onion Varieties: Experiment with different onions, like red or shallots, for varied flavors. Each onion variety imparts its unique sweetness or tang, allowing for personal expression.
With these variations, your latkes will not only shine in flavor but also impress every palate at your table!
How to Store and Freeze Latkes
Room Temperature: Latkes are best enjoyed fresh. If left out, keep them at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crisp, place parchment paper between layers.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the latkes on a baking sheet until heated through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes. Enjoy your delicious latkes any time with these simple storage tips!
What to Serve with Crispy Latkes?
There’s something magical about pairing crispy latkes with the perfect accompaniments that truly elevates the experience at your festive table.
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Sour Cream: A classic choice, its creamy texture complements the crispy latkes beautifully, adding a rich and tangy flavor contrast.
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Applesauce: The sweetness of applesauce provides a delightful balance to the savory latkes, making every bite a symphony of flavors.
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Fresh Dill Sprigs: These bright green herbs not only add a burst of color but also offer an herby freshness that enhances the rich potato flavor.
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Smoked Salmon: For a gourmet touch, serving latkes with smoked salmon creates a luxurious pairing that’s both sophisticated and delicious.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers or radishes adds a nice acidity and texture, cutting through the richness of the latkes.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: With their nutty flavor and crispy texture, they complement the latkes’ crunch while adding a healthful side to the plate.
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White Wine Spritzer: A refreshing drink, this bubbly option adds lightness to your meal and pairs nicely with the flavors of fried potatoes.
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Chocolate Babka: For dessert, the sweet, twisted layers of this traditional bread offer a delightful end to the meal, perfectly balancing the savory dish.
These pairings not only enhance the taste of latkes but also create a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the warmth of the season with these delightful complements!
Expert Tips for Perfect Latkes
• Drain Thoroughly: Ensure potatoes are well-drained after wringing out moisture; excess liquid can lead to gummy latkes.
• Use a Spatula: Employ a fish spatula for delicate flipping; it helps keep the latkes intact while they’re frying.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Fry in small batches to keep the oil at 350°F; this ensures crispiness and even cooking.
• Texture Check: Look for a golden-brown color on both sides to confirm your latkes are cooked properly; undercooked latkes can be soggy.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy latkes while they’re hot and crispy; they can lose their texture if left out too long.
Remember, these tips will help you create the best latkes for your celebrations!
Latkes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best potatoes for latkes?
Choose Russet or Idaho potatoes for their starchy content, which helps achieve that crispy, golden exterior. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes, as they won’t achieve the desired texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover latkes?
Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispy texture, layer them with parchment paper between each latke and reheat them in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze latkes and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze latkes, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, which typically takes about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, and they can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them directly from the freezer in the oven.
What should I do if my latkes are soggy?
If your latkes turn out soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture in the mixture. Make sure to drain the shredded potatoes and onions thoroughly; you can also pat them dry with a towel. Additionally, make sure to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F when frying to ensure proper cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for latkes?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with an egg allergy, consider using a flaxseed meal substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) for the egg in the recipe. Also, for gluten-free options, replace the matzo meal with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Can pets eat latkes?
It’s best to avoid sharing latkes with pets, as they are high in oil and contain ingredients like onion and garlic, which can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you want to treat your pet, consider cooking them plain, unseasoned potatoes!
Golden Crispy Latkes: A Traditional Hanukkah Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred the onion and scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt. To save time, you can use a food processor to efficiently shred everything!
- Place the shredded potatoes and onions into a clean towel, then wring out the liquid into a bowl. Don’t forget to reserve the potato starch.
- In a large bowl, whisk the egg until fluffy. Then, add the reserved potato starch followed by the potato-onion mixture, matzo meal, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is combined nicely.
- In a cast iron pan, heat about 1/4-inch deep of oil to 350°F.
- Shape the mixture into 3.5-inch patties carefully. Fry them in batches for 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until each side is golden.
- Transfer the cooked latkes to a wire rack to drain excess oil, then sprinkle with a little salt. Serve immediately.