Easy Potato Latkes Recipe
Crispy and golden Easy Potato Latkes made from shredded potatoes and onions, mixed with egg and breadcrumbs, then pan-fried to perfection. A traditional comfort food perfect for serving as a savory snack or side dish.
- Author: Cara
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Jewish
Latke Mixture
- 1 ½ pounds potatoes (such as Russet, shredded)
- 1 small onion (shredded, or 1/2 medium)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unseasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
For Frying
- Remove the Liquid: Place about 4 paper towels folded in half over a medium size bowl and add the shredded potatoes and onions. Alternatively, you can use a cheesecloth. Gather the corners and squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the mixture to ensure the latkes become crispy.
- Mix: Transfer the drained potatoes and onion to another bowl. Add in the egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined. Set the batter aside while heating the oil.
- Cook: Pour the canola oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture onto a flat spatula, then flatten it with your fingers to form a patty. Carefully transfer the patty to the hot skillet. Repeat this to fill the skillet without overcrowding it. Cook each latke 4 to 5 minutes per side or until golden brown, adjusting heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Finish: Remove the cooked latkes from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Continue cooking the remaining latkes using the same method.
- Serve: Serve the latkes warm accompanied by sour cream or applesauce for a classic pairing. Enjoy this crispy, flavorful treat.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the shredded potatoes and onions for crispier latkes.
- Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola oil for frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste as preferred.
- Leftover latkes can be reheated in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.
Keywords: potato latkes, crispy latkes, Jewish potato pancakes, fried potato cakes, traditional latkes