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Classic Crispy Potato Latkes

Close-up of four golden-brown, crispy potato latkes stacked slightly on a white plate.
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A straightforward recipe for making traditional Jewish potato pancakes that are golden brown and crispy on the outside with a tender center.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 small yellow onion
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Peel the potatoes and onion. Grate them using the large holes of a box grater or a food processor.
  2. Place the grated potato and onion mixture into a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth. Wrap tightly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is critical for crispy latkes.
  3. Transfer the dried potato mixture to a medium bowl. Discard the liquid.
  4. Add the beaten eggs, flour, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Pour about 1/2 inch of oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet and heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers (about 350°F).
  6. Working in batches, drop heaping tablespoons of the potato mixture into the hot oil. Gently flatten each mound slightly with the back of a spoon to form a pancake shape. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  7. Fry for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and crisp. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
  8. Remove the latkes from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  9. Serve immediately with applesauce and sour cream.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, chill the grated potato mixture for 15 minutes after squeezing out the liquid before mixing in the eggs and flour.
  • If you prefer a finer texture, use the small holes of the grater for the potatoes.
  • Keep the oil temperature consistent for even cooking and browning.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://afripaket.com/crispy-potato-latkes-recipe-golden-brown/