Latkes

Every year around this time, I like to make a traditional Jewish holiday recipe. Sometimes I make these at other times throughout the year, depending on if the mood strikes, but mostly these are reserved for December. My mom used to make Potato Pancakes when I was a kid and these just hit the spot!

***

Latkes (Potato Pancakes)

4 large potatoes
1 yellow onion
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
ground black pepper to taste
2 cups vegetable oil for frying

Finely grate potatoes with onion into a large bowl. Drain off any excess liquid.

Mix in egg, salt, and black pepper. Add enough flour to make mixture thick, about 2 to 4 tablespoons all together.

Turn oven to low, about 200 degrees F (95 degrees C).

Heat 1/4 inch oil in the bottom of a heavy skillet over medium high heat. Drop two or three 1/4 cup mounds into hot oil, and flatten to make 1/2 inch thick pancakes. Fry, turning once, until golden brown. Transfer to paper towel lined plates to drain, and keep warm in low oven until serving time. Repeat until all potato mixture is used.

Serve with sour cream and applesauce for a yummy meal.

***

I hope you'll try these, they really are so easy to make. Don't be intimidated by the frying aspect of the recipe, they are almost fool-proof! I always have tons of potato pancakes when I make this recipe, so this could easily serve as an appetizer or side-dish for a large group of people.

Enjoy!