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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

units in
USchevron
serves
16 peoplechevron

Russet Potatoes, shredded

0 lb

Onion, diced

cups

Eggs

each

Kosher Salt, to taste

tablespoons

Canola Oil

for frying

Peanut Oil

for frying

Applesauce

for serving

Sour Cream

for serving

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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