Classic Latkes(6 Servings)
Crispy, golden latkes with savory onion and perfectly seasoned potato flavor, ideal for a comforting appetizer or brunch classic that appeals to everyone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Brush 2 baking sheets with 1 teaspoon vegetable oil each.
- Squeeze excess liquid from grated potatoes with your hands into a large bowl. Let stand 1 minute for starch to settle, then pour off the top liquid.
- Beat in the egg, flour, salt, and pepper until combined. Stir in the grated onion.
- Take about 3 tablespoons of the mixture, flatten into a 3-inch pancake in your palm, and place on a prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat with remaining mixture to make 12 latkes.
- Bake until lightly browned, about 12 to 15 minutes. Brush tops with remaining 3 teaspoons oil.
- Turn latkes over and bake until cooked through and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crispy latkes, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes. If you have them on hand, a bit of matzo meal can be used in place of all-purpose flour for a traditional touch. You can also mix in other root vegetables like carrots for added flavor and color. Don't forget to season with freshly ground pepper to elevate the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your latkes hot with applesauce or sour cream for dipping. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, like a Kentucky Salad, for a balanced meal. Consider adding a side of smoked salmon or pickled herring for a delicious brunch option that enhances the flavor profile.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 400°F oven for about 10 minutes until they are crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Classic Latkes(6 Servings) contains roughly 427 calories, with 7g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and potassium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1452mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make latkes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the latke mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a good stir before frying or baking, as the ingredients may settle. If you have leftover latkes, they can be reheated as mentioned in the storage section.
What type of potatoes are best for latkes?
Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for latkes due to their creamy texture and flavor. However, you can also use Russet potatoes for a crispier result. Just ensure that you grate them fresh for the best texture and taste, avoiding pre-packaged options that may contain preservatives.
Can I freeze latkes?
Yes, latkes can be frozen! Once they are completely cooled, layer them between parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F until heated through and crispy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).