Latkes, those golden, crispy potato pancakes, have long been a staple in Jewish cuisine, especially during Hanukkah. But have you ever tried making them in an air fryer? If not, you’re in for a treat! Air fryer latkes give you the crispiness and rich flavor of traditional latkes but with less oil and less mess. The air fryer’s magic makes them crunchy on the outside while staying tender on the inside, just like the ones your grandmother used to make—only much quicker and easier.
As someone who loves a good crispy latke, I was delighted when I discovered how easy it is to prepare them in an air fryer. No more worrying about hot oil splatters or standing over the stove for hours. This method is perfect for busy weeknights, holiday meals, or just when you want a comforting bite of something warm and crispy. Let me guide you through making the most perfect air fryer latkes.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Potatoes: Potatoes are the star ingredient of latkes. You’ll want to use starchy potatoes like Russet potatoes for that ideal crispy texture. They release just the right amount of starch to bind the latkes together, giving them the perfect bite.
Onion: A classic latke ingredient, onions add flavor and a slight sweetness that balances the earthiness of the potatoes. You can use yellow or white onions depending on your preference for sweetness.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together, making the latkes hold their shape during cooking. They also add richness and contribute to the golden color.
Matzo Meal: This traditional ingredient gives the latkes a slightly bready texture without being too heavy. You can substitute with flour or breadcrumbs if you prefer, but matzo meal is the classic choice.
Baking Powder: A tiny bit of baking powder helps the latkes puff up slightly, giving them a lighter texture while still remaining crispy.
Salt: The perfect seasoning to bring all the flavors together. Salt is key in making sure your latkes are well-seasoned, but be mindful not to overdo it.
Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds just the right amount of spice to balance the other flavors in the latkes.
Oil Spray: While we’re using the air fryer to cook, a light spray of oil ensures that the latkes get that golden, crispy exterior. It’s a healthier alternative to frying them in a pan.
Ingredients List
- 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup matzo meal
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray, for spraying the air fryer basket
How to Make Air Fryer Latkes
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Onion
Start by peeling and grating the potatoes. After grating, place them in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much moisture as you can. This step is crucial for achieving crispy latkes. Next, finely chop the onion. Combine the grated potatoes and chopped onion in a large bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
To the bowl with the potatoes and onion, add the eggs, matzo meal, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. You should have a thick, slightly sticky mixture.
Step 3: Shape the Latkes
Take a small handful of the mixture and form it into a patty about 2 inches in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Aim for about 8-10 latkes, depending on the size you prefer.
Step 4: Air Fry the Latkes
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with a light coating of olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the latkes in the basket, making sure they don’t touch each other, and spray the top of the latkes with a little more oil. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the latkes are done, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with applesauce or sour cream for dipping. Enjoy your perfectly crispy, healthier air fryer latkes!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t skip squeezing out the moisture from the potatoes: This step is essential for achieving the crispy texture. If you skip this, the latkes will be soggy instead of crispy.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket: Giving each latke enough space to breathe ensures even cooking and the crispiness we all crave.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to taste the mixture before cooking and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately: Latkes are best served fresh, but if you need to store them, keep them in an airtight container and reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them back up.
FAQs
Can I make the latkes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the latke mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Form the latkes and cook them when you’re ready to eat.
Can I freeze the latkes? Absolutely! After cooking, let the latkes cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Can I use a different type of potato? While Russet potatoes are the best for crispiness, you can use Yukon Gold or other waxy potatoes if you prefer, though they may not crisp up quite as well.
What can I serve with air fryer latkes? Latkes are traditionally served with applesauce and sour cream. However, they also pair well with a green salad or smoked salmon for a more filling meal.
Enjoy these crispy, delicious air fryer latkes that are a breeze to make and so much healthier than traditional fried versions!