Name: Crispy Potato Latkes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 1½ pounds russet potatoes, peeled (690g); ½ medium onion, peeled (130g); 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; Vegetable oil for frying

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – these potato latkes are the ultimate comfort food! Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah or just craving a delicious potato pancake, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Perfection: Achieve that irresistible golden-brown crunch that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have these latkes on the table in no time.
Versatile: Serve them as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course – they’re delicious any way you plate them!
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different toppings or seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Russet Potatoes: The star of the show, providing that perfect starchy base for crispy latkes.
Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
All-purpose Flour: Helps absorb excess moisture and creates a crispy exterior.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning – don’t skimp on these!
Baking Powder: A secret ingredient for extra lightness (but totally optional).
Vegetable Oil: For frying to golden perfection.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Zucchini Twist: Mix in some grated zucchini for a veggie boost.
Herb-infused: Add fresh dill or chives for a burst of flavor.
Sweet Potato Surprise: Swap half the russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a colorful twist.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in some paprika or garlic powder for extra zing.

How to Make Potato Latkes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes and Onion

Grate the peeled potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, combine the potato-onion mixture with the beaten egg. Sprinkle in the flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Gently mix until well combined.

Step 3: Fry the Latkes

Heat ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet to 350°F. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly. Fry for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Transfer cooked latkes to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Squeeze, Squeeze, Squeeze: The more moisture you remove from the potatoes, the crispier your latkes will be.
Keep It Hot: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for the perfect crisp-tender balance.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to ensure each latke has plenty of space to crisp up.
Make Ahead: Grate the potatoes just before cooking to prevent browning.

How to Serve

Potato latkes are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Traditionally, they’re enjoyed with a dollop of sour cream and a side of applesauce, creating a delightful contrast of savory and sweet. For a more luxurious twist, try topping them with a spoonful of caviar or smoked salmon and a sprinkle of fresh dill – perfect for elegant appetizers or a special brunch.

If you’re serving latkes as a main course, consider pairing them with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a warm bowl of soup. They also make excellent breakfast items – try topping them with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a unique take on Eggs Benedict.

Don’t forget about dipping sauces! While sour cream is classic, experiment with garlic aioli, tzatziki, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor dimensions. For a dairy-free option, try serving with unsweetened applesauce or a homemade apple chutney.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cooled latkes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a paper towel between layers to absorb any excess moisture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. This method is great for making large batches ahead of time for holidays or gatherings.

Reheating

To reheat, place latkes on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.

For best results, reheat latkes just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. If you’re serving a crowd, keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) for up to 30 minutes, but be aware that they may lose some crispiness over time.

FAQs

Can I make these latkes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious.

How do I prevent my latkes from falling apart?
Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes and onions. Also, don’t flip the latkes too early – wait until they’re golden brown on the bottom to ensure they hold together.

Can I bake these instead of frying?
While frying gives the best crispy texture, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 425°F, brush the latkes with oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover latkes?
For the crispiest results, reheat latkes in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy.

Crispy, golden, and utterly irresistible – these potato latkes are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or trying them for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your grater, heat up that oil, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of crispy, potato perfection!