The One Trick You Need to Make Better Latkes

Your mother and grandmother were wrong.

Advertisement

Generations of Jewish mothers have taught us that when making latkes, you must wring out as much liquid as possible after grating the potatoes in order to make great latkes. So after mixing the grated potatoes, onion, egg and matzah meal, we get to squeezing.  Then we squeeze some more. And then right before frying, we squeeze one last time for good measure.

But what if I told you all those generations of moms and bubbes were wrong? Sit down before you hurt yourself and just listen. What I learned from Michelin-Star Chef Bill Telepan several years ago changed my latke making forever: he told me to leave some of the starchy potato liquid in my potato latke mixture for crispy, creamy latkes every time.

latkes frying

I was skeptical, but I’ve never been awarded a Michelin star, so I went home to test out his method and recipe, which also included a high ratio of onion to potato.

Here’s how to make  Grate your potatoes, then let them sit for a few minutes; wring out the liquid, but look at the bottom of the bowl and you will see  some starchy liquid at the bottom. Add that into your latke mix and you will be amazed how creamy and moist your latkes turn out.

So yes, you should still squeeze out some of the liquid, but don’t kill yourself wringing it all out. Still skeptical? Give it a try and let us know what you think.

hand with latkes

Advertisement
Advertisement

Keep on Noshing

Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Latkes Are Actually Legit

These cheesy, carb-free latkes might be our new holiday favorite.

7 Fried Chinese Food Recipes to Enjoy This Chrismukkah

Chinese food on Christmas: it just goes together like peanut butter and jelly. Like matzah balls and chicken soup. And ...

You Should Be Air-Frying Your Latkes. Here’s How.

The secret to latkes with crispy outsides, creamy insides, and no grease.