There’s something special about the crispy sound of latkes frying in a pan that instantly transports me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and shared stories. This recipe for Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes takes those cherished memories and makes them accessible to everyone, whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah or simply craving that delightful crunch. With just seven ingredients and a mere 30 minutes of your time, these latkes boast a perfectly golden exterior and a tender, fluffy inside that will make your taste buds sing.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned chef looking to impress or someone experimenting with plant-based cooking, these latkes are bound to leave a lasting impression at your table. Pair them with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a side of applesauce, and you’ll experience a dish that feels indulgent yet is utterly guilt-free. Ready to fry up some joy? Let’s get started!
Why are Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe only requires seven ingredients and takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Crispy goodness: Each latke features a golden-brown crust that’s irresistibly crunchy, while the interior remains fluffy and comforting.
Versatile and accommodating: Great for various dietary needs, this dish is both vegan and gluten-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, holiday gatherings, or just a cozy dinner at home, these latkes will impress guests and family alike.
Guilt-free indulgence: Enjoy the rich flavor without compromise, pairing delightfully with vegan sour cream or homemade applesauce for a sweet contrast.
Elevate your cooking game with these delightful latkes, promising to bring joy to your table!
Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes Ingredients
For the Latkes
• Russet Potatoes – The main star of this dish, providing a starchy base for crispy latkes. Use approximately 2 large potatoes or 2 ½ cups grated.
• Grated Onion – Enhances flavor and moisture; about ½ small onion yields ½ cup (113g) for optimal taste.
• Chickpea Flour – A fantastic vegan egg substitute when mixed with water, helping bind the ingredients together; use 2 tablespoons.
• Water – Necessary to combine with chickpea flour for a “chickpea egg”; use 2 tablespoons.
• Potato Starch – Ensures gluten-free structure and increases that delightful crispiness; use ¼ cup.
• Baking Powder – A key ingredient for fluffiness in your latkes; use 1 teaspoon.
• Sea Salt – Essential for elevating the overall flavor of the latkes; use ½ teaspoon and sprinkle more on top after frying.
• Avocado Oil – Perfect for frying and achieving that crispy finish; use ¼ cup, divided for frying.
Optional Garnishes
• Vegan Sour Cream – A creamy topping that adds richness to the latkes.
• 3-Ingredient Applesauce – A sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with crispy latkes.
• Thinly Sliced Green Onion – Adds freshness and a pop of color when serving.
These Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes are simple to prepare and will surely become a hit with friends and family!
How to Make Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes
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Prepare Vegetables: Grate the russet potatoes and the onion using a box grater or food processor until finely shredded. This will be the foundation of your latkes!
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Remove Excess Moisture: Place the grated potatoes and onion in cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel, and squeeze out approximately ½ cup of moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
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Make the Chickpea Egg: In a bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour and water until smooth. This mixture will help bind all the ingredients beautifully.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed vegetables, chickpea egg, potato starch, baking powder, and sea salt. Stir until everything is well mixed and ready to turn into delicious latkes.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This is when you know it’s ready for frying!
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Form Latkes: Take about ¼ cup of the mixture and shape it into a flat patty with jagged edges. Jagged edges add extra crispiness, so don’t be shy!
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Cook: Once the oil is hot (test by adding a small piece of potato mixture; if it sizzles, you’re good to go), add the patties and fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
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Transfer and Repeat: Carefully transfer the cooked latkes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and sprinkle them with salt. Add more oil to the skillet for the remaining batches, keeping the cooking process going!
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Serve Warm: Serve the latkes warm, accompanied by optional toppings like vegan sour cream and a side of applesauce for that classic sweet-savory experience.
Optional: Top with thinly sliced green onions for an additional burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes
Fridge: Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain crispness, place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen latkes in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will help maintain their crispy exterior and tender interior.
Tip: Avoid microwaving your Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes, as this will create a soggy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! To prep ahead, you can grate the potatoes and onions up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can mix the chickpea flour and water to create the “chickpea egg” beforehand and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, combine the prepped veggies with the remaining ingredients, then fry them as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality latkes with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment!
Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes Variations
Discover the endless possibilities for personalizing these crispy delights to suit your taste buds!
- Chickpea Flour Swap: Replace chickpea flour with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a different kind of binding, giving the latkes a unique earthy flavor.
- Potato Options: Try using Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russets for a creamier texture and a hint of sweetness, making your latkes even more delightful.
- Herbed Latkes: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley into the mixture for a fresh, aromatic twist that adds another layer of flavor to your latkes.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the mixture if you like a bit of heat; it’ll give your latkes a spicy surprise in every bite.
- Savory Add-ins: Dice some mushrooms or spinach and mix them in to create a heartier version of the latkes, perfect for a filling brunch.
- Nutty Texture: For added crunch, toss in some finely chopped walnuts or pecans; their nutty flavor pairs well with the potato and onion.
- Sweet Apple Twist: Mix in some grated apple for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements and adds moisture to your latkes.
- Balsamic Glaze Drizzle: A drizzle of balsamic glaze over the cooked latkes elevates them to a gourmet dish, merging sweet and savory in perfect harmony.
Let your culinary creativity shine, creating delicious twists on the classic latke recipe that your family and friends will love!
Expert Tips for Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes
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Squeeze Out Liquid: Prioritize squeezing excess moisture from the potatoes and onions to prevent sogginess, ensuring your latkes are crispy on the outside.
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Correct Patty Shape: Forming patties with jagged edges helps create more crispy surfaces during frying, enhancing the overall texture of the Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes.
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Maintain Frying Temperature: Keep the oil hot enough so that the latkes sizzle upon contact. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
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Batch Cooking: Fry latkes in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, allowing each latke to reach that perfect golden brown without overcrowding the pan.
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Serving Fresh: For the best experience, serve your latkes immediately after frying to retain their crunch. Refrain from stacking them too high before serving.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with these expert tips for making delightful Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes!
What to Serve with Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes?
Elevate your latkes experience with delightful side dishes and accompaniments that add flavor and personality to your meal.
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Vegan Sour Cream: A rich and creamy topping that complements the latkes’ crispy texture and enhances their savory flavor.
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Homemade Applesauce: The sweet and tart notes of applesauce provide a refreshing contrast to the latkes’ crunchiness, creating a delightful balance.
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Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette offers a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich latkes.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a warm, earthy element to the plate, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Add a simple roasted medley of carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious twist that everyone will love.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth avocado dip with a hint of lime elevates the flavor and brings a creamy texture, perfect for dipping.
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Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully, enhancing the overall culinary experience.
Each of these sides complements your Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes, turning a simple dish into a memorable, satisfying meal.
Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for latkes?
Russet potatoes are the best choice because they have a high starch content, which helps the latkes achieve a crispy texture. For this recipe, I recommend using approximately 2 large russet potatoes or about 2 ½ cups grated.
How do I store leftover latkes?
Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, place a paper towel in the container to absorb any moisture that could make them soggy.
Can I freeze my Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes?
Absolutely! Freeze them by first laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
How should I reheat frozen latkes?
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen latkes, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will help preserve their crispy exterior while warming the inside.
What should I do if my latkes are soggy?
If your latkes turn out soggy, it’s likely due to excess moisture. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes and onions before mixing. Also, ensure your oil is hot enough when frying – a quick test is to drop a small amount of the mixture in; it should sizzle upon contact!
Are there any dietary considerations for serving latkes to pets?
It’s best to avoid feeding latkes to pets, as they contain ingredients like onions, which can be toxic to some animals. Always check for allergies and consult your veterinarian if you’re uncertain about certain ingredients.
Crispy Vegan Gluten-Free Latkes in 30 Minutes Flat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Grate the russet potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor until finely shredded.
- Place the grated potatoes and onion in cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel, and squeeze out approximately ½ cup of moisture.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour and water until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the squeezed vegetables, chickpea egg, potato starch, baking powder, and sea salt. Stir well.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Take about ¼ cup of the mixture and shape it into a flat patty.
- Fry the patties for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked latkes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and sprinkle them with salt.
- Serve the latkes warm, accompanied by vegan sour cream and applesauce.