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Crispy Latkes Recipe: Easy Jewish Holiday Treat with Sweet Apple Sauce

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These crispy latkes are a classic Jewish holiday treat, featuring golden, crunchy potato pancakes paired with a sweet homemade apple sauce. Perfect for Hanukkah or any cozy gathering, this recipe is quick, easy, and full of nostalgic comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled (about 2.2 lbs)
  • 1 large yellow onion, peeled
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying (canola or sunflower oil recommended)
  • 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Peel and grate the potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor. Grate over a large bowl to catch juices.
  2. Transfer grated potatoes and onions into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Twist tightly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. In a large bowl, combine drained potatoes and onions with eggs, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Pour vegetable oil into a heavy skillet to about 1/4 inch deep. Heat over medium-high until oil shimmers and a drop of batter sizzles immediately (about 350°F).
  5. Working in batches, scoop about 2 tablespoons of batter and gently flatten into a patty (about 2.5 inches wide). Fry for 3-5 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with a slotted spatula.
  6. Transfer cooked latkes to a wire rack or paper towel-lined sheet pan. Keep warm in a low oven (200°F) while finishing the batch.
  7. For the apple sauce: Combine apples, water, sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft.
  8. Mash apples with a fork or blend for a smoother sauce. Taste and adjust sugar or lemon if needed.
  9. Serve latkes hot, topped with generous dollops of warm apple sauce. Optionally, sprinkle with a tiny pinch of sea salt.

Notes

Squeeze potatoes and onions very dry for crispiness. Use a wire rack to drain latkes for best texture. Latkes can be made gluten-free or vegan with simple swaps. Make apple sauce ahead for deeper flavor. Reheat latkes in a hot oven for best results. Try sweet potatoes or add herbs for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: latkes, Hanukkah, Jewish holiday, potato pancakes, apple sauce, crispy latkes, easy latkes, gluten-free latkes, vegan latkes, holiday recipes, comfort food

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crispy-latkes-recipe-easy-jewish-holiday-treat-with-sweet-apple-sauce/