How to Make the Best Potato Latkes Ever: A Complete Guide

Join us on a journey to explore the history, ingredients, variations, cooking methods, nutrition, and tips of making potato latkes – the world of crispy, golden, and delicious fried potato pancakes. These savory pancakes tantalize your taste buds and are made from grated potatoes, eggs, flour, and seasonings. While traditionally served during Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, you can enjoy them anytime as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. So hold on tight and let’s dive into the world of potato latkes!

What are potato latkes?

Fried potato pancakes, known as potato latkes, are a popular Jewish dish. The Jewish festival of lights, Hanukkah, traditionally includes the consumption of this dish. According to tradition, the potato latkes symbolize the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days in the ancient Temple of Jerusalem. However, people enjoy potato latkes throughout the year as a tasty snack or side dish.

What is the origin of potato latkes?

The recipe for potato latkes emerged in Eastern Europe in the 18th century when potatoes became widely available and affordable. Potatoes were a staple food for the poor Jewish communities, who adapted the latke recipe to use them. The oil used to fry the latkes represents the oil that lit the menorah, the candelabrum that is the main symbol of Hanukkah.

What are the ingredients for potato latkes?

The basic ingredients for potato latkes are potatoes, eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. You can use any type of potato, but the best ones for latkes are starchy or all-purpose potatoes, such as Russet, Yukon Gold, or Idaho. You will need about 2 pounds of potatoes or 4 to 5 medium-sized ones for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes.

Egg:

Eggs act as a binder and add moisture and richness to the latkes. You will need 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes.

Flour:

The flour helps absorb the excess moisture from the potatoes and eggs and prevents the latkes from falling apart. You can use all-purpose flour, matzo meal, or breadcrumbs, depending on your preference and dietary restrictions. You will need about 1/4 cup of flour for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes.

Salt:

Salt and pepper add flavor and seasoning to the latkes. You can adjust the amount according to your taste, but a good starting point is 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes.

Oil:

Oil is essential for frying the latkes and creating a crispy and golden crust. You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil. You will need about 1/4 cup of oil for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes.

Also, you can add some optional ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture, such as onion, garlic, parsley, and baking powder. Onion adds a sweet and savory flavor and aroma to the latkes. You will need about 1 medium onion, finely chopped or grated, for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes. Garlic adds a pungent and spicy flavor and aroma to the latkes. You will need about 2 to 3 garlic cloves or 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes. Parsley adds a fresh and herbal flavor and color to the latkes. You will need about 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped, or 2 teaspoons of dried parsley for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes. Baking powder helps the latkes rise and become fluffy and light. You will need about 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder for a batch of 12 to 15 latkes.

How to make variations of potato latkes?

Potato latkes are a very versatile dish that can be customized in multiple ways by changing the ingredients, flavors, or cooking methods. Below are some examples of how to make different types of potato latkes:

1. Cheese potato latkes:

Add one cup of shredded cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan to the batter. You can also sprinkle some cheese on top of the latkes after frying them.

2. Sweet potato latkes:

Replace half or all of the potatoes with sweet potatoes, peeled and grated. You can also add some cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the batter for a spicy and sweet flavor.

3. Air fryer potato latkes:

Instead of frying the latkes in oil, you can cook them in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and spray the basket with cooking spray. Place the latkes in a single layer in the basket, leaving some space between them. Spray the tops of the latkes with cooking spray. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

4. Traditional latke recipe:

For a more authentic and traditional latke recipe, you can use schmaltz, which is rendered chicken or goose fat, instead of oil. Schmaltz adds a rich and savory flavor to the latkes, and it is considered a delicacy in Jewish cuisine. You can buy schmaltz in some specialty stores, or make your own by simmering chicken or goose skin and fat in water until the fat melts and separates from the skin. Strain the fat and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use.

How healthy are potato latkes?

Potato latkes are a delicious delicacy, but they are not low-carb or light. One medium-sized potato latke, without any toppings, contains approximately 100 calories, 6 grams of fat, 10 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of protein. The nutritional content may vary depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of eating potato latkes:

Pros:

Potato latkes provide potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining your blood pressure, immune system, and digestion. They are also a traditional, festive food for Hanukkah, the Jewish holiday of lights, and can bring joy and comfort to your table.

Cons:

Potato latkes are high in calories, fat, and carbs, which can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar if consumed in large quantities. They are also not suitable for people with gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or egg allergies unless gluten-free or egg-free alternatives are used. They are also not very vegan-friendly, except if vegan cheese, sour cream, or yogurt is used.

Final Thought

Potato latkes are by far the most delicious and flexible food available at any time of year, but especially during Hanukkah. Trust me, they are so easy to make and you can customize them with your favorite ingredients and toppings to create your very own signature latkes. Whether you fry them in oil, bake them in the oven, or cook them in the air fryer, you will get a crispy, golden, and satisfying latke that will make you and your family jump with joy. So, don’t wait any longer and try this potato latkes recipe today to experience the unbeatable taste that makes it the best potato latkes recipe ever!