Crisp Potato Latkes

Name: Crisp Potato Latkes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 4 medium Russet potatoes, peeled; 1 medium onion, grated; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Vegetable oil for frying

Published: November 22, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Crisp Potato Latkes

This incredible Crisp Potato Latkes transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

Ease of Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll whip up these latkes in no time.

Flavor Profile: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these latkes deliver a savory potato flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Visual Appeal: Golden-brown perfection makes these latkes not only delicious but also stunning on any plate or platter.

Versatility: Serve them as a side dish during festive occasions or enjoy them as a snack with applesauce or sour cream anytime you crave comfort food.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crisp Potato Latkes:

Russet Potatoes: About four medium-sized potatoes work best for that perfect texture—high starch content means crispiness galore!
Onion: One medium onion adds flavor and moisture; choose a sweet variety for added depth.
Eggs: Two eggs help bind everything together while adding richness to every bite.
All-Purpose Flour: A quarter cup ensures your latkes hold their shape without being too dense.
Salt and Pepper: Season generously to enhance all those delightful potato flavors.
Vegetable Oil: Enough oil for frying; it’s essential for achieving that crispy outer layer we all love.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crisp Potato Latkes:

Step 1: Grate the Potatoes

Start by peeling the russet potatoes and then grate them using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and twist it tightly to squeeze out excess moisture. This step is crucial; nobody wants soggy latkes!

Step 2: Prep the Onion

Grate one medium onion into a bowl and mix it with your grated potatoes. This combination brings out amazing flavor while ensuring your latkes have the right balance of moisture.

Step 3: Mix it Up

In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onions with two beaten eggs, a quarter cup of flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined—think of it as giving your future latkes a spa day!

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan (about half an inch). Allow it to heat up until shimmering but not smoking—too hot, and you might end up with burnt edges!

Step 5: Fry Away

Using a spoon or your hands (if you’re feeling adventurous), drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil. Flatten them slightly with a spatula and fry until golden brown on each side—roughly three to four minutes per side should do it.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once crispy perfection is achieved, transfer the latkes onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them hot with applesauce or sour cream for dipping—because who can resist that classic combo?

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every crispy bite!

You Must Know About Crisp Potato Latkes

This showstopping Crisp Potato Latkes delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by grating the potatoes and onions, squeezing out excess moisture. Next, mix them with eggs and flour before heating oil in a skillet. Fry until golden brown on both sides, ensuring a crispy exterior and tender interior.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to add spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs such as dill or chives. You can also swap out the regular potatoes for sweet potatoes or zucchini for a fun twist on the classic Crisp Potato Latkes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Crisp Potato Latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, pop them in a hot skillet or oven to regain their crispiness rather than using the microwave.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Crisp Potato Latkes

This professional-quality Crisp Potato Latkes relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

The first time I made Crisp Potato Latkes was during a family gathering, and they vanished faster than I could say “Hanukkah.” Everyone raved about them, but my secret? A dash of love (and maybe a little too much oil)!

FAQs

What is Crisp Potato Latkes?

Crisp Potato Latkes are traditional Jewish pancakes made primarily from grated potatoes, onions, and eggs. These savory delights are typically fried until golden brown, resulting in a crunchy exterior and a soft interior. Often enjoyed during Hanukkah, they are served with applesauce or sour cream. The preparation involves seasoning the mixture with salt and pepper before frying, making them a delightful comfort food loved by many. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving something delicious, Crisp Potato Latkes are sure to impress.

How do I achieve crispy latkes?

To achieve perfectly crispy latkes, start by squeezing excess moisture from the grated potatoes. This step is crucial as it prevents sogginess. Use a hot oil for frying; this ensures that the latkes cook quickly, forming a golden crust. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. Lastly, placing cooked latkes on paper towels helps absorb extra oil while maintaining their crispiness.

Can I make Crisp Potato Latkes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Crisp Potato Latkes ahead of time! Prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. If you have leftovers after frying, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To reheat and maintain crispiness, bake them in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This way, you can enjoy fresh-tasting latkes even after some time has passed.

What are some variations of Crisp Potato Latkes?

There are numerous delicious variations of Crisp Potato Latkes that you can try! For instance, adding zucchini or carrots to the potato mixture enhances flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different spices like cumin or garlic powder for unique taste profiles. For a twist on tradition, consider making sweet potato latkes or even using cauliflower as a low-carb option. Each variation offers its own delightful spin on this classic dish.

Conclusion

Crisp Potato Latkes are not only a festive treat but also a versatile dish that everyone can enjoy year-round. By following simple tips for preparation and frying, you can create latkes that are irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender inside. Whether served with traditional toppings or innovative variations, these latkes will surely become a favorite at your table. Embrace the joy of cooking by making Crisp Potato Latkes today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card