These delicious crispy potato pancakes, also known as latkes, are a perfect side dish or snack. They are golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a favorite for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, grated
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- Sour cream or applesauce (for serving, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Onion
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Grate the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and grate them using a box grater or food processor. Place the grated potatoes in a large bowl.
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Grate the Onion: Grate the onion and add it to the bowl with the potatoes. The onion adds flavor and moisture to the pancakes.
Step 2: Remove Excess Moisture
- Drain the Mixture: Using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth, wrap the grated potato and onion mixture and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
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Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the eggs and mix well.
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Add Potato Mixture: Fold the drained potato and onion mixture into the egg mixture until well combined.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet generously.
Step 5: Fry the Pancakes
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Form the Pancakes: Once the oil is hot, scoop about 1/4 cup of the potato mixture and flatten it slightly to form a pancake. Repeat with the remaining mixture, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
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Cook Until Golden: Fry the pancakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the pancakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
![potato pancakes recipe – Drain Excess Oil](https://pub-01536886848d473086ed7ddb6eaccde