The Crispiest Easy Potato Latkes Recipe for Hanukkah Magic

Crispy golden potato latkes have been a delightful comfort food in my kitchen for years.

Generations of cooks have perfected this classic dish with simple ingredients and love.

Jewish culinary traditions shine through these delectable potato pancakes that spark joy at every gathering.

Potatoes shredded and mixed with onions create a magical base for these irresistible treats.

Salt and eggs bind the mixture, ensuring each latke turns out perfectly crisp and delicious.

Frying these savory delights fills the kitchen with an incredible aroma that draws everyone close.

Ingredients for Crispy Easy Potato Latkes

• Potatoes: Starchy root vegetables that provide the main texture and flavor of the latkes.
• Onion: Adds a sharp, aromatic flavor that complements the potatoes.

• Egg: Helps bind the potato mixture together and adds richness.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides structure and helps create a crispy exterior.

• Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall flavor of the latkes.
• Canola Oil: Used for frying to create a golden and crispy surface.

• Paper Towels: Used for draining excess oil from the fried latkes.

How to Make Easy Potato Latkes

Step 1: Prepare Potatoes and Onions

Grab your potatoes and onions.

Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt.

Use a box grater or food processor to shred the potatoes and onions into thin, delicate strands.

Work quickly to prevent the potatoes from turning brown.

Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture

Transfer the shredded potatoes and onions to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.

Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

This step is crucial for creating crispy latkes that won’t become soggy.

Step 3: Create Latke Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained potato and onion mixture.

• Egg
• Breadcrumbs
• Salt
• Black pepper

Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture holds together well.

Step 4: Heat Cooking Oil

Place a large skillet on the stove.

Pour in canola oil, creating a layer about 1/4 inch deep.

Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is hot enough for frying.

Step 5: Form Latke Patties

Use a tablespoon to scoop the potato mixture.

Gently flatten each scoop into a thin, round patty using the back of the spoon or your fingers.

Step 6: Fry the Latkes

Carefully place the patties into the hot oil.

Cook each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.

This typically takes 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Remove the latkes from the oil using a slotted spatula.

Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Optional: Garnish with applesauce or sour cream.

Pro Tips for Perfect Potato Latkes

• Remove as much liquid as possible from the shredded potatoes and onions to ensure crispy, non-soggy latkes.
• Keep the oil consistently hot around 350-375°F to achieve a perfectly golden, crunchy exterior without burning.
• Add salt to the potato mixture right before cooking to prevent drawing out additional moisture that could make latkes soggy.
• Use a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop to create evenly sized latkes that cook at the same rate for consistent crispiness.
• Enjoy latkes right after cooking to maintain their crisp texture and maximum flavor, as they tend to become less crunchy when cooling down.

Variations to Try with Easy Potato Latkes

• Gluten-Free Latkes: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free matzo meal for a celiac-friendly version.
• Sweet Potato Latkes: Swap regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a nutritious, slightly sweeter alternative.
• Zucchini Fusion Latkes: Mix shredded zucchini with potatoes to add extra vegetables and create a lighter texture.
• Vegan Latkes: Use flax egg or chickpea flour instead of eggs, and replace oil with avocado or coconut oil for plant-based option.

Serving Ideas for Potato Latkes

• Crispy Comfort Plate: Serve these golden latkes hot alongside sour cream or applesauce for a classic, comforting experience.
• Brunch Brilliance: Top latkes with smoked salmon, capers, and a dollop of cream cheese for an elegant weekend brunch option.
• Holiday Harmony: Perfect as a Hanukkah side dish, pair with roasted brisket or chicken for a traditional Jewish family meal.
• Breakfast Boost: Create a morning sensation by topping latkes with a fried egg and fresh chives for a hearty start to the day.

Storage Tips for Leftover Potato Latkes

• Store cooled latkes in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual latkes in plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 1 month. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Restore crispiness by placing frozen or refrigerated latkes on a baking sheet, bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crisp.
• Quickly revive latkes by warming in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, ensuring they become crispy and golden again.

FAQs

• What are latkes traditionally eaten during?

Latkes are traditionally eaten during Hanukkah, a Jewish holiday that celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.

• Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?

Russet potatoes work best due to their high starch content, which helps create crispy latkes. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or white varieties.

• How do I prevent my latkes from becoming soggy?

Squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the shredded potatoes using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. This helps ensure crispy, golden-brown latkes.

• Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs in the recipe?

Breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients and add texture. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute with matzo meal or flour.

What Makes Easy Potato Latkes So Good

• Quickly Whip Up: Grab basic kitchen tools and ingredients for a speedy potato latke preparation that's perfect for busy cooks.
• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: These crispy golden patties appeal to all ages, making them an ideal dish for family gatherings and casual get-togethers.
• Versatile Side Dish: Serve alongside multiple main courses or enjoy as a delightful snack that complements various protein options and cuisine styles.
• Simple Technique: Minimal cooking skills required, with straightforward steps that even beginner home chefs can master without stress or complicated techniques.

Easy Potato Latkes Recipe

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• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy potato latkes bring golden memories of Hanukkah celebrations to your kitchen. Perfectly seasoned and fried to a delightful crunch, these traditional Jewish potato pancakes promise a simple yet delicious experience you’ll savor with every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds potatoes (Russet, shredded)
• 1 large egg
• 1 small onion (shredded)

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (unseasoned)
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon pepper

Cooking Ingredient:

• 0.5 cup canola oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Use a grater or food processor to shred potatoes and onion into fine, uniform strands.
2. Transfer shredded mixture to a clean kitchen towel and vigorously squeeze out excess liquid to ensure crispy latkes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded potatoes and onion with egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, thoroughly blending ingredients.
4. Heat canola oil in a large skillet to 375°F, creating an even, sizzling surface for frying.
5. Carefully drop spoonfuls of potato mixture into hot oil, gently pressing each portion into thin, circular patties.
6. Fry latkes for 3-4 minutes per side, rotating when edges turn golden brown and crisp.
7. Remove latkes using a slotted spatula, placing them on paper towels to absorb excess oil and maintain crispiness.
8. Serve immediately while hot and crunchy, optionally garnishing with applesauce or sour cream.

Notes

• Pat potatoes and onions thoroughly dry to ensure maximum crispiness and prevent soggy latkes.
• Use starchy potatoes like Russet for the best texture and binding ability in your latkes.
• Swap breadcrumbs with matzo meal for a more traditional Hanukkah recipe and gluten-free option.
• Experiment with adding fresh herbs like chives or dill to elevate the flavor profile of your latkes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Jewish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 254 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 295 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 37 mg