Potato latkes are a beloved comfort food, especially during the colder months, when simple ingredients turn into something deeply satisfying. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these golden potato pancakes are rooted in tradition and family gatherings, often served during Hanukkah but enjoyed far beyond the holiday season.
The beauty of potato latkes lies in their simplicity. Made from grated potatoes, onions, eggs, and a small amount of flour or matzo meal, they rely on technique rather than complexity. The potatoes are usually squeezed well to remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving that irresistible crisp texture. A finely grated onion adds savory depth, while salt and pepper bring everything into balance.
Frying is where latkes truly shine. Cooked in hot oil until perfectly golden, they develop a crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, almost creamy center. Traditionally, latkes are fried in oil to symbolize warmth, celebration, and abundance, making them especially meaningful during festive occasions. The sound of latkes sizzling in the pan is often tied to memories of busy kitchens and shared moments.
Latkes are wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. The classic pairing is applesauce and sour cream, offering a contrast of sweet and tangy flavors that complement the savory potatoes. Some prefer them with smoked salmon, fresh herbs, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a more modern twist. No matter how they are served, latkes are best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the pan.
While potato latkes are steeped in tradition, they also invite creativity. Variations include adding grated carrots, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Spices like garlic, paprika, or fresh herbs can also be incorporated to suit personal taste, proving that this humble dish can easily evolve while staying true to its roots.
Potato latkes are more than just a recipe, they are a reminder of how comforting food can bring people together. Whether served as a festive treat or a cozy weekend meal, they offer warmth, nostalgia, and simple joy in every crispy bite.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes peeled and grated
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Peel and grate the potatoes, then place them in a cheesecloth and wring out as much moisture as possible.
- In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes, chopped onion, flour, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
- Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening them with the back of the spoon or a spatula.
- Fry latkes until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with applesauce or sour cream.
Nutrition
Can you substitute the eggs with something else? Got allergies, and Iām lost here.
Why do you need onion? It just makes it taste weird. Iām a traditionalist, no onion on latkes!
Best latkes I’ve ever tasted! Maybe I add a bit too much salt? lol
Glad you liked them! I think a little extra salt can make a big difference. Just don’t drown ’em in it! š
Best latkes? Really? I’ve had better ones made from a box mix. Just sayin’.
Tastes okay but I donāt think these are real latkes! Where are the spices???
I never used vegetable oil for frying, it was sunflower oil and worked perfectly!
These latkes are a hit! Crispy and yummy. I added a dash of paprika for extra flavor!
I had high hopes but they fell apart in the pan. Maybe I didn’t wring out the potatoes enough???
Don’t worry! The potatoes can be tricky. Make sure to really squeeze out that water next time. It makes a big difference!
I dunno, mine came out great! Maybe you need to add more flour? Just a thought.
Super simple recipe! Love that it’s just potatoes and some basics. Will make again!
Good recipe, but Iām not big on the baking. They were soggy when I tried to bake instead of fry.
So good! š My grandma would be proud! Canāt wait to eat these with sour cream!
Yum! Grandma’s recipes are the best! Do you think theyād taste good with apple sauce too? š¤
Not gonna lie, I accidentally put the eggs in the wrong order and panicked, but it still turned out edible. Would recommend only if youāre patient and not me lol.
5 stars! Perfect with sour cream. Will make again!
Easy and delicious! I added some garlic for an extra kick. Highly recommend!
Too greasy for my taste. I might try baking them.
I loved them greasy, it’s all about that flavor! But I guess baking is healthier, just won’t be the same in my opinion.
Baking them sounds like a good idea! You might still get that crispy edge without all the oil. Good luck!
Just ok. I think next time Iāll add some cheese to make them tastier. š¤·āāļø
Cheese sounds like a great idea! It’ll add a nice flavor. Never thought of that. š
Meh. Too much work for pancakes. Still taste ok though.
These latkes were a hit at my party! Everyone loved them!
So glad to hear that! Latkes are the best! Did you serve them with anything special?
I dunno, latkes seem kinda boring to me. How about something spicy next time?
I followed this recipe but they came out soggy. What did I do wrong? Maybe I didnāt wring out the potatoes enough?
Pretty good basic recipe. Iād maybe try adding a pinch of garlic next time. Also, wringing the potatoes is the hardest part but it really matters.
These turned out amazing! Best latkes I’ve ever made. Will definitely make them again!
I think 1/2 cup oil is not enough for frying? I ended up using more because they kept sticking. Taste was good though, just more like pan-fried than deep-fried.
These latkes are so good! Just like my grandma used to make. Will definitely make again!
Yummy! I love latkes too, but my grandma used to add some secret spice. What’s your secret?
Used leftover mashed potatoes instead, still worked out okay.
That’s a creative twist! I never thought of using mashed potatoes. Glad it turned out okay for you. Will try it next time!
What is the point of using onions? They just ruin the taste! I left them out and they were way better!
Wow, my kids devoured these! I served with sour cream and they asked for seconds. Win!
That’s awesome! Latkes are my family’s favorite too, especially with a side of sour cream. Glad your kids loved ’em!
I don’t know, latkes seem too oily to me, and kids will eat anything that’s fried. Just saying!
Apple sauce + latkes is non-negotiable. I followed everything and they tasted like my grandmaās. The smell while frying is unreal.
Apple sauce + latkes is the only way š Love that you followed the stepsāwringing out the moisture makes such a difference. That frying smell is unreal, right?!
Delish! But where’s the cumin? Adds a nice kick!
Iām not sure why everyone loves these. Mine turned out mushy. Followed instructions perfectly.
The instructions are straightforward and the ratios seem solid. I added a tiny bit more salt āto tasteā and it really woke up the flavor.
Iām surprised how few ingredients there are. Onion + egg + flour + potato is such a classic combo. Mine browned nicely and didnāt fall apart.
My first batch got a little soggy, but I think I didnāt dry the potatoes enough. Second batch after squeezing harder was way better. Still delicious.
Latkes are supposed to be crispy, right? Mine were kinda pale and soft. I used medium heat maybe too low. Next time Iāll crank it up but not burn them.
Latkes are usually made with more garlic or something? I feel like something’s missing here. Not my favorite.
I get what you mean! A little garlic or even some herbs could totally jazz them up. But I think it’s more about personal taste. I just like them plain! š
Quick tip: Make your potatoes from a box, saves time! Just saying..
I found the mixture a bit too wet. More flour next time?
Yeah, definitely add more flour! That should help absorb some of the moisture.
Tasty and easy! Nice change from the usual potato dishes.
These came out super crispy on the outside and tender inside. I wrung the potatoes until they were pretty dryāworth the effort. Served with sour cream and it was perfect.