Follow these clear instructions to make golden-brown potato latkes that are crispy outside and tender inside. This recipe is simple and reliable for any cook.
Author:cookingbyjade
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:About 12 latkes 1x
Category:Side Dish
Method:Frying
Cuisine:Jewish
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
3 large russet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
1 medium yellow onion
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup all-purpose flour or matzo meal
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
Instructions
Peel the potatoes and the onion.
Grate the potatoes and onion using the large holes of a box grater or a food processor fitted with a shredding disc.
Place the shredded potatoes and onion into a clean kitchen towel or several layers of cheesecloth. Gather the edges and twist tightly over the sink to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is key for crispy latkes.
Transfer the dry potato and onion mixture to a medium bowl.
Add the beaten eggs, flour (or matzo meal), salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour about 1 inch of oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet and heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form pancakes about 1/2 inch thick. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Fry for 3 to 5 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crisp. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Remove the latkes from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve the potato latkes immediately with your choice of applesauce or sour cream.
Notes
For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets.
If you do not have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a tiny bit of potato mixture in; it should sizzle immediately.
If you are making these ahead of time, you can keep them warm on a baking sheet in a 200 degree F oven while you finish frying the rest of the batch.