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    Classic Crispy Potato Latkes

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    Pixicook editorial team

    A traditional dish of crispy potato pancakes served with applesauce and sour cream.

    Ingredients for Classic Crispy Potato Latkes

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    units in
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    serves
    16 peoplechevron
    serves
    16 peoplechevron

    Russet Potatoes, shredded

    0 lb

    Substitute chevron-down

    Onion, diced

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Eggs

    each

    Substitute chevron-down

    Matzo Meal

    cups

    Substitute chevron-down

    Kosher Salt, to taste

    tablespoons

    Substitute chevron-down

    Canola Oil

    for frying

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    Peanut Oil

    for frying

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    Applesauce

    for serving

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    Sour Cream

    for serving

    Substitute chevron-down

    How to Make Classic Crispy Potato Latkes

    1. Shred and Drain Potatoes

    Begin by shredding the russet potatoes using a food processor fitted with a grating disk. After every 2-3 potatoes, wrap the shreds in cheesecloth and twist tightly to drain out as much water as possible.

    2. Collect Potato Starch

    Collect the water from the potatoes in a bowl and let it sit until a brown layer forms on top. Carefully pour off the brown water, saving the starch.

    3. Combine Potatoes and Onions

    Transfer the drained potato shreds to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced onion to the bowl.

    4. Mix in Potato Starch

    Mix the potato starch back into the potato-onion mixture using your hands.

    5. Add Eggs and Matzo Meal

    Crack the eggs into the mixture and gradually add the matzo meal. Continue mixing until the mixture can form patties that stick together.

    6. Season with Salt

    Add kosher salt incrementally, tasting as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right.

    7. Heat Oil

    Heat a generous amount of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a shred of potato bubbles immediately upon contact.

    8. Form and Fry Test Latke

    Form a small test latke and fry it until golden brown. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

    9. Form and Fry Latkes

    Form the remaining mixture into patties and fry them in batches. Fry each side until a golden-brown crust forms.

    10. Drain and Cool Latkes

    Transfer the cooked latkes to a sheet pan lined with paper towels to drain and cool slightly.

    11. Serve Latkes

    Serve your crispy potato latkes warm with a side of applesauce and sour cream.

    Variations

    Sweet Potato Latkes

    Swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to create a sweeter version that pairs well with sour cream and chives.

    Salmon Latkes

    Mix in flaked cooked salmon (or lox) into the batter for a protein-packed version, great for brunch.

    Add Fresh Herbs

    Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs such as chives, dill, or parsley into your batter for a fresh flavor.

    Herbed Latkes

    Mix in finely chopped herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for a fresh flavor.

    Cheese Please

    Incorporate shredded cheese such as sharp cheddar, gruyère, or parmesan into the potato mixture for a gooey, melty addition.

    Pitfalls and tips

    Dry Potatoes are Key

    Remove as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes and onions for a crispy texture. A salad spinner can help after the initial squeeze to get rid of lingering moisture.

    Don't Overcrowd the Pan

    Space out the latkes to prevent oil temperature drop and ensure they fry instead of steam.

    Season Generously

    Potatoes need ample salt. Season the mixture well and taste before adding the eggs.

    Proper Draining

    Use a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil from the latkes, preventing sogginess.

    Starch Matters

    Use the starchy residue that settles after draining the liquid from the potatoes to help bind the latkes.


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