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Potato Latkes

This classic potato latkes recipe delivers a beautifully crisp, golden exterior with a tender, savoury centre. A staple of Jewish cuisine, these shallow-fried pancakes are a versatile vegetarian dish that relies on the simple, earthy flavours of seasonal potatoes and onions. The secret to achieving the perfect crunch lies in removing as much moisture as possible from the vegetables before frying, ensuring each bite provides a satisfying snap without any grease.

Ideal as a comforting snack, a festive side dish, or a light brunch, these homemade latkes are best enjoyed fresh from the frying pan. Serve them the traditional way with a generous dollop of cool soured cream and sweet apple sauce to balance the salty, fried notes. This reliable method produces a consistently delicious result that the whole family will appreciate.

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Ingredients for Potato Latkes

  • 450g potatoes

  • 80g finely chopped onion

  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten

  • 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 120 to 180ml olive oil

  • Accompaniments: soured cream and applesauce

Preheat oven to 121°C.

Peel potatoes and coarsely grate by hand, transferring to a large bowl of cold water as grated. Soak potatoes 1 to 2 minutes after last batch is added to water, then drain well in a colander.

Spread grated potatoes and onion on a kitchen towel and roll up jelly-roll style. Twist towel tightly to wring out as much liquid as possible. Transfer potato mixture to a bowl and stir in egg and salt.

Heat 60ml oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking. Working in batches of 4 latkes, spoon 2 tablespoons potato mixture per latke into skillet, spreading into 3-inch rounds with a fork. Reduce heat to moderate and cook until undersides are browned, about 5 minutes. Turn latkes over and cook until undersides are browned, about 5 minutes more. Transfer to paper towels to drain and season with salt. Add more oil to skillet as needed. Keep latkes warm on a wire rack set in a shallow baking pan in oven.

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.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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