Crispy Air Fryer Potato Pancakes
Golden and crispy potato pancakes cooked quickly in the air fryer, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Steps
- 1
Grate the potatoes (with skin) using a food processor or grater. Place the shreds on several layers of paper towels, cover with more, and press firmly to remove as much moisture as possible.
- 2
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
- 3
In a large bowl, mix the grated potatoes with chopped onion, eggs, flour, salt, garlic powder, and pepper until well combined.
- 4
Form the pancakes: take about 3 heaping tablespoons of mixture for each. Gently squeeze them in your palms to compact into patties.
- 5
Generously spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the pancakes in a single layer without overlapping. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
- 6
Cook at 380°F (193°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again with oil after flipping.
- 7
Remove when golden and crispy. Serve immediately with sour cream and fresh chopped chives.
Shopping list
1 medium Russet potato, 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, 1 onion, 3 eggs, 60g (1/4 cup) all-purpose flour or Matzo meal, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, olive oil spray
Recipe story
These potato pancakes, known as latkes, originate from Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine, traditionally prepared for Hanukkah. The recipe has been adapted over time in various cultures, including Central and Eastern European cuisines, where potatoes became a staple ingredient. The air fryer version offers a crispy texture with less oil.
Ingredient Secrets
Black pepper
Known as 'black gold' in antiquity, pepper was so valuable that it served as currency and tribute. In the Middle Ages, Venetian merchants controlled the pepper trade, and individual peppercorns were often counted. Legend has it that when Alaric, king of the Visigoths, demanded tribute from Rome, he included 3,000 pounds of pepper.
Sea salt
Sea salt, extracted from ocean waters by evaporation, was one of the most precious goods of antiquity, used both as food and as currency. In ancient Rome, soldiers were paid with salt, which is the origin of the word 'salary'. Salt roads connected entire civilizations, and in the Middle Ages, salt was so valuable it was called 'white gold'.
Garlic
Native to Central Asia, garlic was already known in ancient Egypt, where it was given to slaves to boost their strength. In ancient Greece, athletes consumed it before competitions, and in Rome, legionaries considered it essential for courage. During the Middle Ages, it was used to ward off vampires and the plague.
Onion
Probably originating in Central or West Asia, onions were cultivated in ancient Egypt, where they were considered a symbol of eternity and placed in tombs. In ancient Greece, athletes ate them to balance their blood, and in Rome, they were a staple food for soldiers. During the Middle Ages, onions were believed to protect against arrows and the plague.
Olive oil
Originating in the Mediterranean basin, olive oil was already produced in ancient Crete 5,000 years ago. In ancient Greece, it was considered a gift from Athena and used in lamps, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies. The Romans spread it throughout the empire, and in the Middle Ages, monasteries preserved the tradition of its production.
Potato
Although today it seems indispensable on the table, the potato was long viewed with suspicion in Europe. Arriving from the Andes in the 16th century, it was considered a diabolical plant, even poisonous, due to its toxic leaves and fruits. It wasn't until the 18th century, thanks to promoters like Antoine-Augustin Parmentier, that the potato became a staple food, saving Europe from famine.
You may also like
Air Fryer S'mores – Quick Campfire Treat Without Fire
Misc
How to Reheat Frikandellen in Air Fryer: Quick and Crispy Recipe
Misc
How to Reheat Chicken in Air Fryer (Crispy and Juicy)
Misc
Crispy Reheated Chicken Pieces in Air Fryer
Misc
Stuffed Bell Pepper with Mozzarella in Air Fryer
Misc