The Best Homemade Latke Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade latke recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for cozy family meals or festive gatherings. You’ll love how crispy they turn out, with a golden-brown crust and tender center.
- Simple ingredients – Just potatoes, onions, eggs, and flour come together for a classic taste.
- Versatile serving – Enjoy them with sour cream, applesauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
- Crowd-pleaser – Whether it’s Hanukkah or a weeknight dinner, everyone will ask for seconds.
Recipe
Latkes, also known as potato pancakes, are a classic dish often enjoyed during Hanukkah but delicious any time of year. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden-brown delights are made from grated potatoes and onions, bound together with eggs and flour, then fried to perfection.
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 small onion
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Grate the potatoes and onion using the large holes of a box grater or a food processor.
- Place the grated mixture in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Transfer the drained mixture to a bowl and stir in the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Heat about ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with the back of the spoon to form pancakes.
- Fry until golden brown and crisp, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Notes:
- Serve hot with sour cream or applesauce.
- For extra crispiness, press out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes.
Equipment:
- Box grater or food processor
- Large skillet
- Clean kitchen towel
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Jewish
Serving: 4–6 servings
Nutrition
Latkes are a delicious treat, but it’s good to be mindful of their nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make latkes, I always stick to classic pairings like applesauce and sour cream because they’re simple yet perfect. If I’m feeling a bit adventurous, though, I’ll try creative complements, like a tangy herb yogurt dip or a sprinkle of smoked salmon. You can mix and match to find what suits your taste best!
Classic Pairings
There’s nothing quite like biting into a crispy, golden latke, but you know what makes it even better? Pairing it with classic toppings like apple sauce and sour cream. That sweet, tangy apple sauce balances the savory potato perfectly, while the cool, creamy sour cream adds a rich contrast. I always keep both on hand because they’re a match made in latke heaven. Some folks even go for a dollop of each on the same bite—don’t knock it till you try it! These simple pairings let the latke shine while adding just the right touch of flavor.
Creative Complements
While apple sauce and sour cream are classics, I love exploring other ways to enjoy latkes too. For flavor variations, try topping them with smoked salmon and dill cream, or go bold with a spicy mango chutney. Texture contrasts make it fun—crunchy latkes pair perfectly with creamy avocado slices or a crispy fried egg. I’ve even served them with a tangy Greek yogurt dip and pickled onions for extra zing. Don’t be afraid to mix sweet and savory, like a drizzle of honey with crumbled feta. The possibilities are endless, and each bite becomes a little adventure.
