Tired of greasy latkes weighing you down? Craving that crispy potato pancake perfection without the deep-frying drama? Then you've come to the right place! This air fryer latke recipe delivers all the deliciousness of traditional latkes, with significantly less oil and a fraction of the cleanup. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying – perfect for Hanukkah, brunch, or any day you're craving something truly special. These easy recipes are a game-changer!
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and coarsely grated
- 1 medium yellow onion, coarsely grated
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- 2 tablespoons matzah meal (optional, adds extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Sour cream or applesauce, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Onions
The key to perfectly crispy latkes is getting excess moisture out of the potatoes. After grating the potatoes and onions, place them in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispiness.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed potatoes, onions, eggs, flour, matzah meal (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Gently mix until just combined. Don't overmix, as this can make the latkes tough.
Step 3: Air Fry the Latkes
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each latke. Avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the latkes are golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your latkes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the crispy latkes from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like sour cream or applesauce. These delicious dishes are best enjoyed fresh!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Latkes:
- Don't skip the squeezing: This is the most important step for crispy latkes. Really squeeze out as much moisture as you can!
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Give each latke enough space to brown evenly. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on your latkes and adjust the cooking time as needed based on your air fryer and desired level of crispness.
Variations:
- Add some herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like chives, dill, or parsley can add a delicious flavor boost.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Cheese please: Incorporate grated cheddar, parmesan, or other cheeses into the batter for extra flavor and richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and ingredients used, but a general estimate for one medium-sized latke:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
- Protein: Approximately 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
These homemade cooking recipes are a great example of how you can enjoy delicious and healthy food without compromising on taste. Enjoy your crispy, guilt-free latkes!