Crispy Potato Latke Recipe (Classic Jewish Latkes That Stay Crispy)
The recipe I will be discussing with you now is not an Indian recipe, but believe me, just looking at it reminds me of an Indian recipe that is a very popular snack in West Bengal, India, called “Piyaji (পিঁয়াজি).” In Hindi, it is called “Pyaz ke Pakore (प्याज पकोड़ा / प्याज के पकोड़े),” which is essentially a type of Indian onion fritter or onion pakora made by hand using a very simple method. However, today’s recipe is called Latke, also known as Potato Latke Recipe, which is made with potatoes. But both look similar.
Although crispy potato latkes are very easy to make, with my method, you will learn the best latke recipe. These traditional Jewish potato pancakes are golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and made using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Latkes are more than just a recipe — they’re a cornerstone of Jewish cuisine and a must-have during Hanukkah celebrations. But let’s be honest: most homemade latkes turn out soggy, oily, or bland.
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Classic Crispy Potato Latkes (Jewish Potato Pancakes)
Golden, crispy potato latkes are a traditional Jewish Hanukkah recipe made with grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour, then fried until irresistibly crunchy on the outside and tender inside. These crispy potato pancakes are perfect as an easy holiday appetizer, side dish, or comfort food snack. Serve with sour cream or applesauce for the ultimate classic experience.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or matzo meal)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
Instructions
- Grate the potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor.
- Transfer to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture (very important for crispy latkes).
- Place the mixture in a bowl and add eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Mix well.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of batter per latke into the pan and flatten slightly.
- Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and repeat with the remaining batter.
- Serve hot with sour cream or applesauce.
Notes
- Use starchy potatoes like russet for maximum crunch
- Always squeeze out water to avoid soggy pancakes
- Keep cooked latkes warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven
- For extra crispiness, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature
Variations
- Gluten-Free Latkes: Use rice flour or cornstarch
- Baked Latkes: Brush with oil and bake at 425°F for 25 minutes
- Sweet Potato Latkes: Swap russet potatoes with sweet potatoes
- Low-Oil Latkes: Air fry at 380°F for 12–14 minutes
Serving Suggestions
- Classic with sour cream and applesauce
- Serve as a side for roast chicken or brisket
- Top with smoked salmon and crème fraîche
- Great for Hanukkah parties and holiday gatherings
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 91Total Fat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 31mgSodium: 227mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 2gSugar: 1gProtein: 3g
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What Are Latkes?
Latkes are classic Jewish potato pancakes made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour or matzo meal, then fried in oil until golden brown and irresistibly crispy. This traditional dish is one of the most iconic and high-demand Hanukkah food recipes worldwide. Traditionally served during Hanukkah, latkes symbolize the miracle of oil in Jewish history. Because they’re fried in oil, they’ve become a staple of Jewish holiday cooking and a beloved comfort food far beyond religious celebrations. Today, people enjoy latkes year-round as an easy appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal.
✔ Cultural Origin
Latkes come from Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine and are closely tied to Hanukkah traditions and family-style holiday meals.
✔ Texture & Taste
Crispy edges, tender centers, and savory flavor which is the best latke recipe.
✔ How They’re Served
Most commonly served with sour cream and applesauce, but modern versions include gourmet toppings like smoked salmon.
From a modern cooking perspective, latkes are also trending because of interest in air fryer recipes, healthy holiday cooking, and easy homemade comfort food. You’ll now see variations like baked latkes, gluten-free latkes, and low-oil latkes—each designed to fit today’s lifestyles without losing tradition.
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Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Crispy Potato Latkes
Grate the Potatoes & Onion (Foundation of Crispy Latkes)
Start by peeling and grating the russet potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor. This step is crucial because the texture directly affects how crispy your potato latkes turn out. Russet potatoes are high in starch, making them the best potatoes for latkes and traditional Jewish potato pancakes.
Squeeze Out Excess Moisture (Secret to Ultra-Crispy Latkes)
Transfer the grated mixture to a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This is the #1 secret for how to make latkes crispy. Too much moisture leads to soggy pancakes and wasted cooking oil. Proper moisture removal also reduces oil absorption, making latkes lighter and more economical for holiday catering recipes.
Mix the Latke Batter Until Just Combined
Place the squeezed potato mixture into a large bowl. Add eggs, flour (or matzo meal), salt, pepper, and baking powder. Mix gently until combined. Avoid overmixing — this keeps the texture tender inside while staying crispy outside. This balanced method works perfectly for classic latke recipes, easy holiday appetizers, and even air fryer latkes.
Fry in Hot Oil for Golden, Restaurant-Style Latkes
Heat a generous layer of vegetable or canola oil in a heavy skillet or nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Drop 2 tablespoons of batter per latke and gently flatten. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Proper oil temperature improves texture.
Drain, Keep Warm & Serve Like a Pro
Transfer cooked latkes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Keep warm in a low oven if cooking in batches. Serve immediately with sour cream and applesauce for a classic Hanukkah latkes recipe. These homemade latkes stay crispy longer, making them ideal for holiday meals, and family gatherings.
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Latke Recipe Variations for Every Diet
One of the main reasons latkes are so popular—especially during Hanukkah—is their versatility. If you’re looking for a healthier way to enjoy crispy potato pancakes, these different methods will help you choose the right latke recipe for your lifestyle. This section is designed for practical decisions, not for following trends.
1. Classic Crispy Potato Latkes
This is the traditional Jewish latke recipe. Made with russet potatoes, onion, eggs, and flour, these latkes are fried in oil for that iconic golden, crunchy outside and soft center.
2. Air Fryer Latkes (Low Oil)
Air fryer latkes are one of the helthiest recipi in my choice. They use up to 80% less oil while still delivering crisp edges. These latkes pair well with light Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
3. Baked Latkes (Oven-Friendly)
Baked potato latkes are ideal for large batches and family gatherings. They’re brushed with premium cooking oil and baked at high heat to mimic frying.
4. Gluten-Free Latkes
A must-have variation for modern diets. Gluten-free latkes replace flour with cornstarch, potato starch, or gluten-free flour blends.
5. Sweet Potato Latkes
Slightly sweet, nutrient-rich, and visually appealing, sweet potato latkes are just awesome. They work especially well for brunch menus and pair beautifully with herbed yogurt or honey.
6. Zucchini & Vegetable Latkes
These vegetable latkes are lighter and perfect for people reducing carbs. Always squeeze excess moisture for best results.
7. Low-Carb & Keto Latkes
Perfect for keto or diabetic-friendly diets, these latkes swap potatoes for cauliflower or radish.
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Serving Ideas For Latke Recipe That Actually Work (Tried, Loved & Worth Making)
🥄 Classic: Sour Cream & Applesauce
Cool, creamy sour cream balances the salty crunch, while applesauce adds natural sweetness. It’s the gold standard for Jewish potato pancakes and a must for Hanukkah food ideas.
🐟 Smoked Salmon & Crème Fraîche
For a more upscale, restaurant-style option, top latkes with smoked salmon, crème fraîche, and fresh dill. This works beautifully for holiday brunch menus and premium appetizer platters, and pairs well with sparkling drinks.
🥗 Fresh & Light: Greek Yogurt + Herbs
If you’re aiming for healthy holiday cooking, swap sour cream for thick Greek yogurt and add chives or parsley. It keeps latkes feeling lighter.
🍳 Breakfast-Style Latkes
Serve latkes with a fried or poached egg, avocado slices, and a sprinkle of salt. This turns homemade latkes into a filling breakfast or brunch.
🥩 As a Side Dish for Dinner
Latkes work surprisingly well as a side for roast chicken, brisket, or grilled vegetables. They’re a comforting alternative to fries or mashed potatoes and ideal for holiday dinner planning.
🧀 Family-Style with Dips
Set up a latke board with sour cream, applesauce, garlic yogurt dip, and spicy mayo. This format is perfect for party appetizers and encourages sharing.
🌱 Vegetarian Bowl-Style Serving
Add latkes to a bowl with roasted veggies, greens, and tahini sauce.
🎉 Mini Latkes for Parties & Catering
Make smaller latkes and serve them as bite-sized appetizers. This works exceptionally well for holiday catering recipes, keeps costs controlled, and increases engagement for large gatherings.
