Latkes have been around for centuries and are specifically associated with the celebration of Hanukkah.
These fried potato fritters consist of a simple mixture including shredded potatoes and onions mixed with egg and flour to bind it together.
They are then shallow fried to crispy, golden perfection and typically served with applesauce or sour cream to create that perfect bite every time.
Not only are latkes a celebratory dish for the Jewish community, but it embodies the hardships they endured over a thousand years ago when the Second Temple of Jerusalem was ransacked. The oil from the menorah was only enough to last one day, but instead lasted eight creating a miracle on Hanukkah.
The oil used to fry the latke symbolizes this and to this day, Jewish people around the world celebrate Hanukkah with a deliciously fried latke.
The best part about this recipe is that the ingredients are readily available and simple to put together, so that everyone can enjoy a crispy bite of latke.
If you want to join in on the celebrations this year, follow the steps below!
Recipe
- Prep your potatoes by cleaning the skin and rinsing them. Pat them dry and set aside.
- Using a grater, grate down all the potatoes and set aside in a bowl lined with a cheese cloth or thin kitchen cloth.
- Next, grate the onion in the same bowl and mix.
- Using the cloth, gently squeeze any excess water out of the potatoes and onions until they are completely dry.
- Transfer this all to a bowl and now it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Crack in the egg, add the flour and season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to form a loose doughy mixture.
- In a pen over medium heat, add about an inch of oil to coat the pan. When the oil is ready, you are going to form the latke dough into equal pieces and form a flat pancake.
- Add to the pan and let cook for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown. (Make sure not to overcrowd the pan!)
- Remove and drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with salt immediately after removing from the oil.
- Repeat with the remaining latke until they are all cooked.
- Serve with your favorite topping like applesauce or sour cream. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1lb russet potatoes, (about 2-3 medium potatoes)
- 1/2 white onion
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- Oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Applesauce and/or sour cream, for serving
