🥔 Crispy Potato Pancakes (Latkes)

🧂 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs / 900g)

• 1 small onion (optional but recommended)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or 3 tbsp)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)

• Sour cream (for topping)

• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

🔪 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Potatoes

• Peel potatoes.

• Grate them using a box grater or food processor.

• Grate the onion as well (if using).

2️⃣ Remove Moisture (VERY IMPORTANT)

• Place grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel.

• Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

• The drier the potatoes, the crispier the pancakes.

👉 This step prevents soggy latkes.

3️⃣ Make the Batter

In a bowl combine:

• Drained potatoes

• Onion

• Eggs

• Flour

• Salt

• Pepper

• Garlic powder

Mix well.

4️⃣ Fry

• Heat 1/4 inch oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

• Scoop about 1/4 cup mixture per pancake.

• Flatten slightly.

• Fry 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Do not overcrowd the pan.

5️⃣ Drain & Serve

• Place on paper towels to drain.

• Top with sour cream and green onions.

• Serve immediately.

🔥 Best served hot and crispy!

💡 Pro Tips

✔ Use russet potatoes (higher starch = crispier result)
✔ Squeeze out ALL the water
✔ Keep oil hot but not smoking
✔ Add 1 tbsp cornstarch for extra crisp

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why are my potato pancakes soggy?

You didn’t remove enough moisture OR oil wasn’t hot enough.

Q2: Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes.

• Brush with oil.

• Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  They won’t be as crispy as frying.

Q3: Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes.

• Fry fully.

• Reheat in oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
  Avoid microwaving (makes them soft).

Q4: Can I freeze them?

Yes!

• Freeze cooked pancakes in a single layer.

• Store in freezer bag.

• Reheat from frozen at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.

Q5: What toppings go well?

• Sour cream

• Applesauce (traditional)

• Smoked salmon

• Greek yogurt

• Cheese sauce

• Hot sauce