As the first sparks from the menorah flicker in the warm glow of my kitchen, I can’t help but reminisce about the culinary traditions that have brought my family together through the years. This year, I decided to up my latke game with a delightful twist: a Crispy Giant Skillet Latke! This robust take on the beloved classic not only keeps the essence of the traditional dish alive but also lightens it up, making it perfect for the cozy brunches or those comforting breakfast-for-dinner moments we all cherish.
With significantly less oil than the typical latke, this showstopper boasts that crave-worthy crunch without weighing you down. Imagine the golden exterior enveloping a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior—your taste buds won’t know what hit them! Whether you’re gathering around the table for Hanukkah or simply seeking a heartwarming comfort meal, this Giant Skillet Latke promises to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into the recipe that effortlessly marries tradition and innovation, and fills your home with the irresistible aroma of crispy potatoes and onions!
Why is Giant Skillet Latke a Must-Try?
Comforting Joy: This Giant Skillet Latke redefines comfort food; it’s crispy, fluffy, and simply delightful.
Less Oil, More Flavor: Enjoy the classic taste of latkes but with significantly less oil—great for diet-conscious foodies!
Easy to Make: With a simple preparation process, you’ll be serving this crowd-pleaser in no time.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Hanukkah or a cozy breakfast-for-dinner night, this dish suits every gathering.
Versatile Toppings: Top it your way—sour cream, applesauce, or even caviar for an elevated twist your guests will love!
One Pan Wonder: A single skillet means less fuss and easier clean-up while you create a stunning meal.
Giant Skillet Latke Ingredients
Get ready to savor the delicious crunch of this Giant Skillet Latke with less oil!
For the Latke
- Medium russet potatoes (about 2 lb. total) – Provides the base and primary texture; ensure to dry thoroughly for crispiness.
- Medium yellow onion – Adds flavor and moisture; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- Large egg, lightly beaten – Binds the mixture together; for a vegan option, use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water).
- Matzo meal (1/4 cup) – Provides structure and crunch; breadcrumbs can be used for a non-kosher option.
- Kosher salt (1 1/2 tsp) – Enhances flavor; adjust if using salted matzo meal.
- Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds seasoning; white pepper can be used for a milder taste.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (3 Tbsp + more for brushing) – Used for frying to achieve a crisp texture; can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
For Serving
- Flaky sea salt, sliced chives, sour cream, applesauce, caviar, crème fraîche – These toppings enhance the dish’s presentation and flavor profile; use according to personal preference or dietary restrictions.
How to Make Giant Skillet Latke
-
Prep the Potatoes: Shred the medium russet potatoes using a grater or food processor. Then, soak them in a bowl of water for about 10 minutes to prevent browning and maintain that lovely white color.
-
Remove Moisture: Drain the potatoes and onion mixture well. To ensure the crispiest texture, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or nut milk bag and squeeze out any excess moisture.
-
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, diced yellow onion, lightly beaten egg, matzo meal, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well-blended and coated.
-
Heat Skillet: Preheat a sturdy 10-inch nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Pour in the extra-virgin olive oil, ensuring it coats the bottom of the skillet evenly for optimal frying.
-
Cook the Latke: Carefully spread the potato mixture evenly across the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, undisturbed, until the bottom is a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
-
Flip and Finish: When the first side is perfectly golden, use a large plate to flip the latke over carefully. Cook the other side for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve: Once both sides are cooked to perfection, remove the latke from the skillet. Slice and serve warm with your choice of toppings like sour cream, applesauce, or chives for a burst of flavor.
Optional: Garnish with flaky sea salt for that delightful touch of contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Giant Skillet Latkes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can shred the potatoes and onions, then soak them in water up to 24 hours in advance to prevent browning. After rinsing and drying them thoroughly, mix them with the remaining ingredients and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply heat your skillet with olive oil and cook the latke as directed, ensuring that it remains crispy and delicious. This prep-ahead option saves you time on busy weeknights while delivering those irresistible, comforting flavors just as if you had made them fresh!
What to Serve with Giant Skillet Latke?
As you gather around for a cozy meal, imagine the vibrant colors and flavors complementing your crispy creation.
-
Creamy Sour Cream: The tangy richness of sour cream adds a luscious contrast to each crunchy bite, enhancing the overall taste experience.
-
Sweet Applesauce: A classic pairing that offers a delightful sweetness, bringing out the latke’s savory notes beautifully; perfect for balancing flavors.
-
Chives and Green Onions: Freshly sliced chives add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that elevates the dish, making every slice more enticing.
-
Flaky Sea Salt: Just a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top intensifies the flavors and enhances the crispy texture of the latke, making it utterly irresistible.
-
Salty Caviar: For those special occasions, a dollop of caviar provides an elegant touch, elevating the dish to gourmet status while enhancing its savory notes.
-
Roasted Garlic Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful, sautéed mushrooms with garlic create an umami-packed topping that pairs wonderfully with your latke’s crispy surface.
-
Hearty Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can lighten up the meal, offering a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the latke.
-
Red Wine: Pair with a glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Merlot, to complement the dish. Its fruitiness marries beautifully with the potato’s richness.
-
Chocolate Babka: For dessert, serve slices of decadent chocolate babka to end the meal on a sweet note, providing a delightful cultural finish.
Explore these pairings to enhance your Giant Skillet Latke experience, making every meal feel like a celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Giant Skillet Latke
Fridge: Store leftover latke in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked latke in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 12–15 minutes until crisp and heated through. Enjoy your Giant Skillet Latke with all your favorite toppings!
Expert Tips for the Best Giant Skillet Latke
-
Dry Potatoes: Ensure your shredded potatoes are thoroughly dried. Excess moisture will make your latke soggy instead of crispy.
-
Use the Right Skillet: A cast iron skillet helps achieve that perfect golden crust. Nonstick pans can work too, but cast iron excels at even browning.
-
Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the potato mixture evenly in the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying, affecting the desired crispy texture.
-
Prep Ahead: To streamline the cooking process, consider prepping your ingredients in advance. You can grate the potatoes and onions a day prior—just store them in water.
-
Serve Immediately: For the optimal crispy texture of your Giant Skillet Latke, serve it right after cooking. This ensures each bite is perfectly crunchy!
Giant Skillet Latke Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to add your personal touch to the Giant Skillet Latke and make it truly your own!
-
Dairy-Free: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan delight. Creamy avocado can also work wonders as a topping!
-
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a flavorful kick that will elevate your latke to new heights. The warmth and smokiness beautifully contrast the crispy potatoes.
-
Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a burst of flavor and freshness. These herbs bring a delightful lightness to every bite, making it feel more vibrant.
-
Cheesy Twist: For the cheese lovers, fold in some shredded cheese (like cheddar or gouda) into the mixture before cooking. It melts into the latke, creating gooey pockets of flavor that everyone will adore!
-
Veggie Boost: Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots into the potato mix for added moisture and nutrition. This not only enhances the nutrional profile but also adds a lovely touch of color.
-
Crunchier Texture: Swap half of the matzo meal for panko breadcrumbs to achieve an extra crunchy exterior. The result will be a beautifully crunchy shell that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
-
Unique Toppings: Experiment with toppings beyond the traditional! Try a dollop of beet hummus or a sprinkle of roasted garlic for an unexpected yet delicious twist that piques curiosity.
-
Sautéed Additions: Before frying, sauté diced mushrooms or bell peppers until tender and mix with the potato blend for an added layer of rustic flavor. This simple addition will bring warmth and heartiness to your latke.
Giant Skillet Latke Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Giant Skillet Latke?
For the best texture, I recommend using medium russet potatoes. They provide a great base with the right starch content to achieve that crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Ensure that you dry them thoroughly after shredding to avoid sogginess.
How can I store leftover Giant Skillet Latke?
Leftover latke can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using a skillet over medium heat to revive that delicious crunch we all love. Alternatively, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze Giant Skillet Latke?
Absolutely! After cooking, allow the latke to cool completely. Then, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for 12-15 minutes until crispy.
Why is my latke not crispy?
If your latke turns out soggy, it’s vital to make sure the potatoes are sufficiently dried after shredding. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Also, make sure your skillet is hot enough when you first add the mixture; it should sizzle upon contact.
Can I make a vegan version of Giant Skillet Latke?
Yes, you can! To make this dish vegan, substitute the large egg with a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens, and use it in place of the egg in your recipe.
What are some dietary considerations for toppings on Giant Skillet Latke?
There are plenty of options to cater to different dietary needs! For a dairy-free choice, use plant-based sour cream or applesauce. If you’re looking for something a bit luxe, caviar or crème fraîche makes a beautiful addition, but always keep in mind any allergies your guests might have—opt for fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a light, flavorful touch instead!
Giant Skillet Latke That Makes Comfort Food a Breeze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shred the medium russet potatoes using a grater or food processor. Soak them in a bowl of water for about 10 minutes to prevent browning.
- Drain the potatoes and onion mixture well. Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or nut milk bag and squeeze out any excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded potatoes, diced yellow onion, lightly beaten egg, matzo meal, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well-blended.
- Preheat a sturdy 10-inch nonstick or cast iron skillet over medium heat. Pour in the extra-virgin olive oil, coating the bottom evenly.
- Spread the potato mixture evenly across the skillet. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the latke using a large plate and cook the other side for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the latke from the skillet, slice, and serve warm with your choice of toppings.