Hanukkah is a time of celebration and tradition, when Jewish families get together to commemorate their ancestors and celebrate the miracle that got them through the darkest of times. One of the best parts of Hanukkah is the food- since the holiday is based on a miracle involving oil, many Hanukkah foods are fried goodies like jelly doughnuts and latkes. For those looking to experience some Hanukkah fried goodness, here are 4 latke recipes that bring the holiday to a new level of deliciousness.
Videos by Wide Open Country
1. Best-Ever Potato Latkes
Everything you need to know about this fried latke recipe is in the name. With four thousand ratings of 5 stars, this recipe is hard to compete with. The potato mixture of these latkes is made with shredded potatoes, onion, scallions, matzo meal, and large eggs. The scallions and matzo meal aren't traditional latke ingredients, and maybe this is what makes these so delicious!
The potatoes can be russet potatoes or Yukon gold, whichever is more accessible. To make the best potato latkes, you'll fry the patties in batches in hot oil, which can be olive oil or a vegetable oil like canola oil. Use medium high heat and a large skillet to get them as crispy and golden brown as you like. Let them drain on paper towels, and then serve with all the toppings, from applesauce to sour cream to smoked salmon. For a healthier option, you can also bake them on baking sheet in a 425 F oven, for a cook time of 20 minutes on one side and 10 on the other.
Get the recipe here.
2. Chipotle Cheddar Potato Latkes
For those looking to try a slightly unique latke, these chipotle cheddar ones are a tasty option. Don't get me wrong, I love any crispy potato food, but adding spice and cheesiness brings it to a whole new level. The recipe for these potato pancakes adds sharp cheddar cheese, garlic, chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, and spices to the classic grated potatoes. This adds an amazing combo of spice and flavor that will put your basic latke recipe to shame!
Get the recipe here.
3. Waffle Iron Latkes
Who needs mashed potatoes for the holidays when you can have a cross between a waffle, a hash brown and a latke? Waffle iron hashbrowns are the ultimate kitchen hack, and these waffle iron latkes add a holiday twist! To make them, you'll prepare the potato mixture like normal, and then use your waffle iron in place of a nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan.
They can be served as a snack alongside matzah, or an appetizer or side dish for a Hanukkah meal. Better yet, eat them as a main dish and gorge yourself on perfectly crispy latke waffles. To add extra flavor, sprinkle some extra ground black pepper and kosher salt into the mix. This potato latke recipe also features five different sauces to to serve your latkes with, from pear gorgonzola to apple butter.
Get the recipe here.
4. Sweet Potato Apple Latke Cake
We love a batch of crispy latkes, but why not take it a step further with one giant latke? This sweet potato apple latke cake is a potato-lover's dream. Rather than spending time flipping latke after latke, you can decrease the total time and make a latke cake. Along with being unconventional in its size and form, this latke recipe has its own mix of ingredients- sweet potato, apple, ginger and spices. This leads to a tasty blend of sweet and savory flavors that'll make you want to eat your entire latke cake in one sitting.
Get the recipe here.
