Today, let’s dive into the heartwarming world of Classic Potato Latkes – an absolute staple on our family table. These unadorned latkes, free from exotic twists, evoke the essence of tradition and simplicity, making them a beloved dish in our home.
The Magic of Simplicity
In the realm of latkes, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity. No kohlrabi or cumin disrupts the classic charm; it’s all about the wholesome goodness of russet potatoes, onions, and a handful of kitchen essentials. The result? A crispy exterior, tender inside – a symphony of textures and flavors that resonate with memories of family gatherings and festive occasions.
Generous Yields for Family Moments
Every family gathering calls for abundance, and this recipe ensures just that. With a yield of about three dozen latkes, it’s a testament to the understanding that when it comes to these golden delights, more is always better. Trust me; they vanish from the plate faster than you can say, “dinner is served!”
Latke-Making Pro Tips: Elevate Your Culinary Craft
Potato and Onion Prep: Ensure potatoes and onions are well-drained after grating. Squeeze out excess moisture using a dishtowel, promoting crispiness during the frying process.
Batter Dropping Technique: Use a heaping tablespoon to drop batter into the hot pan, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Flatten with a spatula to create consistent discs.
Crisp Perfection: Allow the edges of the latkes to turn brown and crispy before flipping. This ensures a delightful crunch on the exterior while preserving a tender interior.
Paper Towel Drainage: After frying, transfer the latkes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This step maintains their texture and prevents them from becoming overly greasy.
Salt While Warm: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the latkes while they are still warm. This not only enhances flavor but adheres better to the surface, delivering a balanced taste.
Batch Cooking Wisdom: If making multiple batches, keep the first ones warm in a low-temperature oven while cooking subsequent batches. This ensures a consistent serving temperature.
Creative Serving Ideas: Explore diverse serving options such as pairing with applesauce, sour cream, or even smoked salmon for a gourmet touch.
Ingredients:
2 tsp coarse kosher salt (or 1 teaspoon fine sea salt)
Safflower or other oil, for frying
2 Russet potatoes (about 1 pound), cut lengthwise into quarters
2 eggs
1 onion (8 ounces), cut into quarters
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Directions:
Step 1: Grate and Squeeze
Begin the latke-making journey by employing a food processor equipped with a coarse grating disc. Grate the russet potatoes and onions to create a textured mixture. Transfer this amalgamation onto a clean dishtowel, where the magic happens. Channel your inner kitchen prowess and squeeze and wring out every bit of liquid, ensuring the potatoes and onions are primed for crispiness.
Step 2: Swift Assembly
With nimble hands, swiftly transfer the grated mixture to a spacious bowl. The clock is ticking, and it’s time to add the supporting cast – eggs, flour, salt, baking powder, and a hint of pepper. Mix with purpose until the flour is harmoniously absorbed, laying the foundation for the latke’s delightful texture.
Step 3: Sizzle and Flip
The stage shifts to a medium heavy-bottomed pan, heated over a medium-high flame. Pour in approximately a quarter-inch of oil, patiently waiting until it reaches the perfect temperature – a sizzle should greet a drop of batter. Now, using a heaping tablespoon, drop the batter into the hot pan in batches. Armed with a spatula, flatten and shape these droplets into glorious discs. Five minutes in, witness the edges turning brown and crispy – the cue for a graceful flip. Allow the second side to achieve a rich, deep brown hue, roughly another 5 minutes. As they emerge, transfer the golden wonders to a paper towel-lined plate. While still warm, sprinkle them with a pinch of salt, a final touch that enhances their irresistible appeal. Rinse and repeat this symphony of latke creation with the remaining batter.
And there you have it – a three-step guide to crafting classic potato latkes that captivate with their crispy exterior and tender interior. Enjoy the journey, savor the aroma, and relish in the joy of creating these timeless delights.