When the first flickers of candlelight begin to dance in the windows, it’s a sure sign that Hanukkah is upon us a time for family, warmth, and, of course, delicious food. This year, I decided to shake up tradition a bit and create a Giant Skillet Latke that is not just visually striking but also incredibly easy to whip up. Imagine a golden, crispy latke much like the beloved potato pancakes of my childhood cooked to perfection, all while using less oil for that delightful crunch.
This dish transforms simple ingredients like russet potatoes and onions into a festive centerpiece for your holiday brunch or an inviting breakfast-for-dinner indulgence. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting friends, this latke is sure to bring smiles to the table and make your celebrations truly memorable. So let’s take a culinary journey through this festive season together your new favorite latke recipe awaits!
Celebrating Hanukkah with Giant Skillet Latke?
Festive and inviting, this Giant Skillet Latke is the perfect showstopper for your holiday gatherings. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, it promises a delightful texture that your guests will adore. Versatile toppings allow everyone to customize their latkes, whether they prefer classic applesauce or something adventurous like smoked salmon. Easy to prepare, this recipe uses less oil than traditional methods, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. Quick to cook, you can have this festive dish ready in under an hour, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Celebrating Hanukkah with Giant Skillet Latke Ingredients
• Whip up this delightful dish with these simple ingredients to elevate your holiday meals!
For the Latke
- Medium Russet Potatoes – Use about 2 lbs. of peeled and halved potatoes; contributes to crispiness when properly dried.
- Medium Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and savory depth to the latke; can replace with shallots for a milder flavor.
- Large Egg, lightly beaten – Binds the mixture together; for vegan version, substitute with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
- Matzo Meal – Provides structure and crispiness; use breadcrumbs as a gluten-free alternative if needed.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; sea salt can be used instead, but adjust to taste.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning and depth for a flavorful bite.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Used for frying to add richness; can substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
For Toppings
- Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and adds a finishing touch.
- Sliced Chives – Brightens up the dish with fresh notes; feel free to use your favorite herbs.
- Sour Cream – Creamy accompaniment that pairs beautifully with latkes.
- Applesauce – A classic topping for a touch of sweetness; try homemade for an extra special flavor.
- Caviar or Crème Fraîche – Adds a gourmet touch; customize toppings to personal taste for a festive flair.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to celebrate Hanukkah with a Giant Skillet Latke that’s as delicious as it is memorable!
How to Make Giant Skillet Latke
- Prep Potatoes and Onions: Shred the medium russet potatoes and yellow onion using a food processor or box grater. This step is key to achieving that delightful texture we all love in latkes.
- Dry Mixture: Squeeze the shredded mixture through a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture. Let sit for a few minutes to allow the starch to settle, ensuring a crispier final result.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried potatoes and onion with the lightly beaten egg, matzo meal, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined for a uniform batter.
- Heat Skillet: Preheat a 10″ nonstick skillet over medium heat and add extra-virgin olive oil. Wait until the oil shimmers slightly, indicating it’s hot enough for frying.
- Fry Latke: Pour the potato mixture into the skillet, flattening it out to form a half-inch thick round. Cook for about 8–10 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully!
- Cool and Serve: Once golden, transfer the latke to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. This will keep your latke nice and crisp.
- Add Toppings: Before serving, top your latke with sliced chives, sour cream, applesauce, or any toppings of your choice for a personal touch that enhances flavor.
Optional: Try adding some fresh herbs like dill for a refreshing twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Giant Skillet Latke
- Dry Thoroughly: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the shredded potatoes to achieve a crispy latke texture.
- Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature; too hot, and the latke will burn; too cool, and it will absorb excess oil.
- Uniform Thickness: When frying, ensure the latke is about half an inch thick for even cooking and a satisfying crunch.
- Topping Variety: Experiment with various toppings to cater to your guests’ preferences; classic applesauce, sour cream, or even smoked salmon can elevate your latke experience.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the latke in advance and freeze it for up to 2 weeks; simply reheat it in the oven for a delicious, easy meal.
- Celebrating Hanukkah with Giant Skillet Latke: This dish is not just a treat; it’s a chance to share togetherness and tradition during the festive season.
What to Serve with Giant Skillet Latke?
Round out your meal with delightful side dishes that elevate your Giant Skillet Latke experience to new heights.
- Applesauce: This classic accompaniment adds a sweet contrast, enhancing the savory crunch of the latke beautifully. Nothing beats that comforting combination!
- Sour Cream: A dollop of creamy sour cream not only enriches the flavor but also creates a luscious texture that makes each bite irresistible.
- Smoked Salmon: For a gourmet twist, pair your latke with smoked salmon. The smoky richness adds depth and sophistication, perfect for your festive gathering.
- Herbed Salad: A crisp salad with fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing element. This balance offsets the richness of the latke with a burst of brightness.
- Caviar or Crème Fraîche: Elevate your latke experience with luxurious toppings like caviar or crème fraîche. These indulgent garnishes bring a hint of elegance to your holiday table.
- Golden Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables complements the latke’s flavors and provides a colorful, nutritious contrast.
- Sparkling Wine or Apple Cider: A chilled glass of sparkling wine or non-alcoholic apple cider brings a festive cheer to the meal. Their effervescence enhances the celebratory spirit!
- Chocolate Babka: For dessert, a slice of rich, gooey chocolate babka rounds out your meal with a sweet flourish, making your Hanukkah celebration even sweeter!
With these delightful pairings, you’re set for a memorable holiday meal that celebrates tradition while embracing new flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Giant Skillet Latkes are perfect for meal prepping, saving you time during the busy holiday season! You can shred the potatoes and onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Simply drain and dry them thoroughly before mixing with the egg, matzo meal, and seasonings. Once the latke mixture is prepared, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, heat your skillet and fry the latkes as directed. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a delicious, golden latke ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
Celebrating Hanukkah with Giant Skillet Latke Variations
Unleash your creativity in the kitchen and tailor this delightful dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
- Sweet Potato: Swap russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter and colorful twist that still satisfies.
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce for a delicious plant-based alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of matzo meal, ensuring everyone at your table can indulge without concern.
- Savory Seasoned: Add finely chopped garlic or shallots to the mixture for an extra depth of flavor that will amaze your guests.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or thyme before frying, giving your latke a fragrant and fresh taste.
- Spice It Up: Kick up the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne or a few diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Magic: Incorporate shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyère, into the latke mixture for a creamy, savory twist.
- Top it Unique: Instead of classic toppings, try a spicy avocado salsa or a dollop of herbed yogurt for a refreshing twist that surprises.
These variations make your Giant Skillet Latke even more memorable and suited to your family’s preferences, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor!
Storage Tips for Giant Skillet Latke
- Room Temperature: Enjoy your Giant Skillet Latke fresh for up to 2 hours at room temperature. After that, refrigerate to maintain quality and prevent spoilage.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating is best done in the oven to retain crispiness, rather than the microwave.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your latke for up to 2 weeks. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen latke in a preheated oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes. This method restores its delicious crunch, making it taste freshly made!
Celebrating Hanukkah with Giant Skillet Latke Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the latke?
For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using medium russet potatoes. They provide the perfect base for crispiness when properly dried. If russets aren’t available, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a flavorful substitute, giving a slightly buttery taste.
How do I store leftover latke?
To keep your Giant Skillet Latke fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy it again, reheat in an oven at 400°F for about 10 to 12 minutes to restore its delightful crunch.
Can I freeze Giant Skillet Latke?
Absolutely! You can freeze latkes for up to 2 weeks. To do so, wrap each latke tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes for best results.
What can I do to make my latke extra crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispiness, it’s essential to thoroughly dry the shredded potatoes. After grating, squeeze out as much moisture as you can using a clean kitchen towel. Allowing the mixture to rest will also help the starch settle, which contributes to a better texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute ingredients. For a vegan version, replace the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water or ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce. Additionally, if you need a gluten-free option, just use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of matzo meal.
What toppings do you recommend for serving?
The possibilities are endless! Classic favorites include sour cream and applesauce, but consider getting creative too. Sliced chives add freshness, while smoked salmon can elevate the dish to gourmet status. You can even try caviar or crème fraîche for an upscale twist!
Celebrate Hanukkah with a Flavorful Giant Skillet Latke Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred the medium russet potatoes and yellow onion using a food processor or box grater.
- Squeeze the shredded mixture through a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried potatoes and onion with the lightly beaten egg, matzo meal, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Preheat a 10" nonstick skillet over medium heat and add extra-virgin olive oil.
- Pour the potato mixture into the skillet and flatten to form a half-inch thick round. Cook for 8–10 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the latke to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Top your latke with sliced chives, sour cream, applesauce, or any toppings of your choice before serving.