Latkes are a traditional Jewish comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. These crispy potato pancakes are not only easy to make but also deliciously satisfying. With their golden-brown exterior and tender inside, they are perfect for serving during Hanukkah or as a delightful side dish any time of the year. Let’s dive into the comforting world of latkes!
Why You’ll Love This Latkes
There are so many reasons to love latkes! First, they are deeply rooted in tradition, making them a meaningful dish to share with family and friends. Second, potato pancakes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different toppings like sour cream, applesauce, or even vegan options. Third, this traditional latkes recipe is quick to prepare, with a total time of just 35 minutes. Fourth, they are crowd-pleasers at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Fifth, latkes are naturally gluten-free when using the right ingredients, perfect for those with dietary restrictions. Lastly, they provide a delicious way to enjoy potatoes, a staple food loved by many!
Ingredients for Latkes
Gather these items:
- 2 tablespoons Potato starch
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 4 medium Russet potatoes
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup Safflower oil
- to taste Flaky salt
How to Make Latkes Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Grate the russet potatoes and onion into a bowl.
- Step 2: Mix in potato starch, baking powder, salt, and pepper to the grated mixture.
- Step 3: Stir in the lightly whisked eggs and combine well.
- Step 4: Heat safflower oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Step 5: Drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil and flatten slightly.
- Step 6: Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Step 7: Remove the latkes from the pan and let drain on paper towels.
- Step 8: Serve with flaky salt for added flavor.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Latkes
To ensure your latkes turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a box grater for evenly grated potatoes and onions.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry a few latkes at a time for even cooking.
- For a gluten-free latkes recipe, ensure your potato starch is certified gluten-free.
- Let the grated mixture sit for a few minutes before frying to help the flavors meld.
- Keep the oil hot but not smoking to achieve the ideal crispy texture.
Best Ways to Serve Latkes
Latkes can be served in many delightful ways! Traditionally, they are enjoyed with sour cream topping or applesauce, offering a sweet and savory contrast. For a twist, consider adding toppings like smoked salmon or a vegan alternative with avocado. Pair your latkes with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can find more ideas on vegan options to complement your latkes.
How to Store and Reheat Latkes
If you have leftover latkes, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture. This is a great way to enjoy homemade latkes from scratch later!
Frequently Asked Questions About Latkes
What’s the secret to perfect Latkes?
The secret to perfect latkes lies in the balance of moisture and crispy texture. Make sure to squeeze excess moisture from the grated potatoes and onions before mixing in the other ingredients. This will help them crisp up beautifully when fried!
Can I make Latkes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the latke mixture ahead of time! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Just remember to stir it well before cooking and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Latkes?
To avoid common mistakes, such as soggy latkes, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Lastly, remember to let the latkes drain on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.
Variations of Latkes You Can Try
There are numerous ways to customize your latkes! For a healthier option, try a gluten-free latkes recipe using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. If you’re looking for a vegan twist, explore making vegan latkes without eggs, using flaxseed meal as a binder. You can also experiment with spices like garlic or herbs to create unique flavor profiles! For more on the benefits of onions, check out this article.
Crispy Latkes: 7 Steps to Perfect Potato Pancakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the comforting taste of Classic Latkes, a delicious, crispy dish perfect for gatherings and weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Potato starch
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 4 medium Russet potatoes
- 1 medium Onion
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup Safflower oil
- to taste Flaky salt
Instructions
- Grate the russet potatoes and onion into a bowl.
- Mix in potato starch, baking powder, salt, and pepper to the grated mixture.
- Stir in the lightly whisked eggs and combine well.
- Heat safflower oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil and flatten slightly.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove the latkes from the pan and let drain on paper towels.
- Serve with flaky salt for added flavor.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Jewish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latke
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 250 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
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