Air-Fryer Latkes: How To Make Them Perfectly

Latkes are a delicious treat, but frying them in oil can be a messy and time-consuming process. An air fryer is a great alternative to frying latkes in oil, yielding a crispy latke that can be served as an appetizer or a dinner side. Air-fried latkes are also healthier and less greasy than their oil-fried counterparts. The high-fan speed and concentrated heat of an air fryer produce a crispy potato pancake that's also soft in the centre.

The best type of potatoes for latkes

While latkes can be made with all kinds of different ingredients, the most famous version is made with potatoes. Russet potatoes are widely considered the "gold standard" for latkes. They have a high starch content, which means your latkes are less likely to fall apart and you don't need flour to bind them. Their low water content also helps them get crispy in the hot oil.

However, some people prefer to use Yukon Gold potatoes, which have a buttery flavor. Yukon Golds are less likely to get mushy and fall apart, but they are a little more finicky. They are a waxy variety with a higher moisture content, but they can still make great latkes, especially if you are making pommes anna or pommes puree.

Some people also recommend using Kennebec potatoes or Klondike Gold (Yukon Gold) potatoes.

How to prepare the potatoes

Preparing the potatoes is a crucial step in making latkes in an air fryer. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

First, select the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are generally recommended as the "gold standard" for latkes. You will need to peel and grate them. Aim for 1 to 1.5 pounds of potatoes, which is usually around 2 to 4 medium-sized potatoes.

Next, grate the potatoes using the large holes of a box grater. You can also use a food processor with a grating attachment to speed up this process. Once grated, place the potatoes on a clean kitchen towel. Pull up the sides of the towel to form a bundle and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Getting rid of the excess moisture is essential for ensuring crispy latkes.

Now, you are ready to make the potato latke mixture. Place the dried potatoes in a large bowl. To this, you will add other ingredients like eggs, matzo meal or panko crumbs, salt, and pepper. You can also add some extra starch to make your latkes crispier. Simply save the liquid that you squeezed out of the potatoes earlier, let it sit, and then scrape the starchy juice into your latke batter.

Finally, stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Now you have your potato latke mixture, and you are ready to start frying!

What oil to use

While the traditional way of making latkes involves frying them in oil, you can still achieve the same crispy texture when making them in an air fryer. The secret to making latkes crispy in an air fryer is to use some oil, which allows the latkes to crisp and fry correctly.

You can use your oil of choice if you have an oil sprayer. Avocado oil spray is a good option, as it gives the latkes a beautiful brown color. You can also use a cooking spray or lightly brush the latkes with vegetable or canola oil before frying.

What temperature to set the air fryer to

The ideal temperature to set your air fryer to when making latkes is between 375°F and 400°F.

One source recommends preheating the air fryer to 375°F and cooking the latkes for 10 to 12 minutes, checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark if you prefer softer latkes. Another source recommends preheating to 400°F and cooking the latkes for 8 minutes, then flipping them over and cooking for a further 5 minutes.

It's worth noting that the ideal temperature and cooking time may vary slightly depending on the brand and model of your air fryer, so you may need to adjust accordingly.

How long to cook the latkes for

The cooking time for your latkes will depend on how crispy you like them. For crispy latkes, you should air-fry for 8 minutes, then flip them over and spray with cooking spray before frying for another 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If you prefer your latkes softer, check on them after 8 minutes and remove them from the air fryer when they are done to your liking.

If you are reheating refrigerated latkes, preheat your air fryer to 350˚F and air-fry for 3 to 5 minutes per side. For frozen latkes, preheat to 350˚F and air-fry for 7 to 10 minutes per side.

Frequently asked questions