Classic Potato Latkes (Crazy Easy) (2024)

These classic potato latkes are exactly what you want them to be. Crispy, savory, and deserving of a hefty dollop of sour cream!

I have a real obsession with potatoes. I’ll take them anyway they come – french fries, smashed and roasted, creamy and mashed, boiled and covered with butter…you name it. But when I’m feeling festive or hosting an at-home brunch, my classic potato latke recipe is at the top of the list. Why? They’re so fun to make and you can set out a bar full of different toppings to elevate the crispy, potato goodness.

What Exactly are Potato Latkes?

Before we dive in, let’s chat a little bit about what latkes are and their cultural significance. They’re a Jewish dish and are typically made for Hanukkah celebrations. Despite their deep-rooted tradition, they’ve become wildly popular and you’ll find them served on some of the fanciest brunch menus.

• Flavor: The flavor of latkes is the definition of “less is more”. They’re the perfect combination of earthy potato and onion and minimal seasoning.
• Texture: Somewhere in between a fritter and a potato pancake, latkes are made with shredded potatoes and onions.
• Time: From start to finish, it takes about 20 minutes to make 20 servings of latkes.

The Difference Between Potato Pancakes & Latkes

Oftentimes, the term “potato pancake” is used interchangeably with “latke”. While the two have similar ingredient lists, they differ wildly on the texture front.

• Potato Pancakes – Made with pulpy, grated potatoes for a finer texture.
• Latkes – Whipped up with shredded potatoes for a more fritter-like texture.

How to Prepare Potato Latkes

The first step to preparing latkes is to rinse your potatoes in a colander under cold water and scrub them free any dirt or grime.

• Shred the Potato & Onion: Next, peel the skin off the potatoes. Shred the peeled potato and onion using either a food processor or box grater.
• Remove the Liquid from the Potatoes: Using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel, squeeze as much liquid out of the shredded potatoes as possible.
• Make the Latke Batter: In a large bowl, add the shredded potato and onion, followed the the whisked egg, flour, and salt. Toss with your hands to combine.
• Pan Fry the Latkes: In a preheated pan with oil, place a spoonful of the potato mixture into the pan and flatten it with the backside of the spoon. Fry until golden, then flip with a spatula and fry on the other side. Repeat. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Hot Tip: Fry your latkes in a cast-iron skillet for the crispiest outer layer possible!

3 Tips for Nailing the Texture of Potato Latkes

A couple of handy tips to help you get that essential crispy texture.

• Drain out all the potato juice. The more excess juice and potato starch you can squeeze out of the potatoes, the crispier they will get. This will also prevent chaotic, popping oil!
• Form similar-sized patties. To promote even cooking, try to keep the latkes as similar in size as you can.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Although tempting to cram as many in as possible, you’ll want to give the latkes about an inch of space between one another. This will help them to crisp and spread a bit.

Hot Tip: You may need to adjust from medium to medium-high heat to get that perfect crisp. That said, always start at medium to prevent burning!

How Latkes are Traditionally Served (+ Other Ideas)

Latkes can be served as a side dish to your favorite protein or salad, or as a meal all on their own. Below, find a couple of suggestions:

• Top them with dill and sour cream
• Smear them with cream cheese, followed by a layer of cold smoked salmon and a sprinkle of dill (great for brunch!)
• Pair them with a berry spinach salad for a light lunch or dinner
• Top them with sour cream and applesauce and serve alongside white fish such as pan seared halibut or baked cod.

Make-Ahead, Storing, Freezing, & Reheating Tips

While latkes are best eaten fresh out of the skillet, here are a couple tips for prepping them in advance and storage.

• Make-Ahead: If you’re prepping latkes for a big party, keep them warm by placing them on a baking sheet in the oven at 200°F as you fry.
• Storing: To keep them on hand for 2-3 days, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Freezing: To freeze latkes, fry them and allow them to cool down completely. Next, assemble them in a single layer on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To return the latkes to their fresh-out-of-the-skillet crispiness, reheat them in an oven or an air fryer.

FAQ

More Tasty Potato Recipes

• 15-Minute Air Fryer French Fries – Guilt-free crispy fries
• – Baby potatoes with all the fixin’s
• Mashed Potato Pancakes – A delicious way to use up leftover mashed potatoes
• Easy Air Fryer Baked Potatoes – Crispy, fluffy baked potatoes
• Easy Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Classically indulgent mashed potatoes

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