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Cumin-Scented Beet Latkes

This vibrant vegetarian dish offers a colourful twist on the traditional potato pancake. These cumin-scented beetroot latkes are beautifully textured, combining the natural earthiness of beetroot with the warm, aromatic notes of ground cumin and coriander. The addition of baking powder ensures a light finish, while the frying process creates a satisfyingly crisp exterior that contrasts perfectly with the tender, seasoned vegetable centre.

Ideal as a sophisticated starter or a light lunch, these latkes are best enjoyed with a refreshing apple and jalapeño salsa and a zesty celery relish. This recipe is particularly versatile as the latkes can be prepared up to six hours in advance and crisped up in the oven just before serving, making them a stress-free option for hosting friends or family.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Cumin-Scented Beet Latkes

  • 1450ml coarsely shredded peeled beets (about 6 medium)

  • 6 tablespoons plain flour

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

  • 3/4 teaspoons ground coriander

  • 3/4 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoons ground black pepper

  • 3 large eggs, beaten to blend

  • Canola oil (for frying)

  • Celery and Coriander Relish

  • Apple, spring onion, and Jalapeño Salsa

How to make Cumin-Scented Beet Latkes

Place beets in large bowl; press with paper towels to absorb any moisture. In another large bowl, whisk flour and next 5 ingredients. Mix in beets, then eggs.

Pour enough oil into large skillet to cover bottom; heat over medium heat. Working in batches, drop beet mixture by 60ml fuls into skillet; spread to 3 1/2-inch rounds. Fry until golden, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer latkes to baking sheet. (Can be made 6 hours ahead. Let stand at room temperature. Rewarm in 177°C oven until crisp, about 10 minutes.)

Serve latkes with relish and salsa.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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