Classic Potato Latkes
(1)
Prep time 15mins
Cook time 15mins
Serves or Makes: 10

Recipe Card

ingredients

  • 1 pound peeled russet potatoes
  • 1/4 yellow onion
  • 1/4 cup matzo meal, plus more as needed
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 eggs
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Apple sauce, for serving
  • Sour cream, for serving

Method

  • Step 1

    Using a box grater, coarsely grate the potatoes and onion. Transfer to a bowl lined with cheesecloth or a thin dish towel and wring the cloth to squeeze out any liquid into the bowl. Set this bowl aside to sit for 5 minutes, then discard the liquid, revealing a layer of white potato starch that will be stuck to the bottom of the bowl.

  • Step 2

    To this bowl, add the squeezed potatoes and onion, matzo meal, salt and eggs, then mix to combine.

  • Step 3

    Heat ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, scoop ⅓ cup balls of the mixture and drop in the pan. Using a spatula, smash the latkes to flatten. Cook, flipping once, until golden, 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Repeat until all the latkes are fried, adding more oil as needed.

  • Step 4

    Transfer latkes to a platter and serve with applesauce and sour cream.