Crispy Potato Latkes

Crispy Potato Latkes are a beloved and classic dish in Jewish cuisine, commonly enjoyed during Hanukkah and other festive occasions. These golden and crunchy potato pancakes have a buttery soft interior, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. The key to achieving the perfect latkes lies in the balance between achieving a shatteringly crisp outer shell while keeping the insides light and non-greasy. This recipe employs a combination of techniques to achieve precisely that, ensuring you’ll end up with the most delicious and satisfying latkes you’ve ever tasted.

MAKES 10 LATKES, SERVING 3 TO 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, unpeeled and shredded
• ½ cup grated onion
• Salt and pepper
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley
• Vegetable oil

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and place a rimmed baking sheet on the rack. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit to keep the cooked latkes warm while making additional batches.
2. In a bowl, toss the shredded potatoes, grated onion, and 1 teaspoon of salt together. Working in two batches, wrap the potato mixture in a clean dish towel and wring tightly to squeeze out as much liquid as possible into a measuring cup. Reserve the drained liquid and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the starch to settle at the bottom.
3. Microwave the dried potato mixture in a covered bowl until just warmed through but not hot, stirring every 30 seconds. Spread the potato mixture evenly over a second rimmed baking sheet and let it cool for 10 minutes.
4. Pour off the water from the reserved potato liquid, leaving the potato starch in the measuring cup. Whisk in the eggs until smooth. Return the cooled potato mixture to the bowl. Add minced parsley, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and the potato starch mixture, and toss to combine.
5. Set a wire rack in a clean rimmed baking sheet and line it with a triple layer of paper towels. Heat a ¼-inch depth of vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place a ¼-cup mound of potato mixture in the hot oil and press it with a nonstick spatula into a ⅓-inch-thick disk. Repeat until 5 latkes are in the pan.
6. Cook the latkes until they are golden brown on both sides, adjusting the heat so that the oil bubbles around the latke edges. This process takes about 6 minutes. Let the latkes drain briefly on paper towels before transferring them to the baking sheet in the oven. Repeat with the remaining potato mixture, adding oil as needed to maintain a ¼-inch depth between batches.
7. Season the latkes with salt and pepper to taste and serve them warm.

TIPS:

• Choosing the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for latkes because they have a high starch content, resulting in a crisp exterior and a fluffy interior. Avoid using waxy potatoes like red or Yukon Gold as they won’t give you the same texture.
• Consistent Shredding: For the best results, use a box grater or the shredding disk of a food processor to shred the potatoes and onions. This will ensure uniformity in texture and cooking.
• Removing Excess Moisture: Wringing out the potato mixture in a dish towel and microwaving it helps to remove excess water, preventing the latkes from becoming soggy and greasy during frying.
• Maintaining Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the latkes will burn quickly, and if it’s too cool, they will absorb more oil.
• Serving Suggestions: Traditional accompaniments for latkes include applesauce and sour cream. You can also serve them with other toppings like smoked salmon, crème fraiche, or a dollop of Greek yogurt with fresh herbs.
• Experiment with Additions: While this recipe yields classic and delicious potato latkes, feel free to add your twist by incorporating shredded zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes for unique flavors and colors.

Crispy Potato Latkes are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether served as a festive treat during Hanukkah or as a side dish at any meal, these crispy, golden brown pancakes are sure to be a hit. By following the tips and techniques in this recipe, you’ll create latkes with a perfect balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Happy cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade latkes!