Interested in a healthier version of traditional deep-fried Hanukkah latkes (potato pancakes)? Meet the air fryer. These mini convection ovens work in a fraction of the time it takes to cook in a conventional oven.
My dear cousin Michael sent me an air fryer for a recent birthday. Before I understood its capabilities, I reluctantly cleared countertop space for my new all-in-one air fryer-toaster oven. In fact, I learned that this appliance works by circulating hot air around foods at a high speed, turning out crisp results with significantly less fat and no mess. (Imagine no more hot splattering oil or days of the lingering aromas of frying).
This Hanukkah, I'll whip up batches of these crispy, flavorful latkes and serve them with a choice of toppings as an appetizer, as a side, or even as an entrée with soup and a side green salad. Here's to enjoying a healthier Hanukkah!
- In food processor, grate shallots and transfer them to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Grate potatoes and transfer to a colander. Use paper towels or cheesecloth to squeeze out moisture. [Note: Enclose the potato mixture in batches in the paper towels or cheese cloth and seriously squeeze out the liquid.] Add the potatoes to the bowl of shallots.
- Add baking soda to prevent the shallot-potato mixture from turning brown.
- Add eggs, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour; mix well.
- Coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
- To shape the latkes, use a 1/4-cup measuring cup, and gently flatten each latke with the bottom of the measuring cup. Continue to scoop in 1/4-cup amounts into air fryer basket in a single layer. (Note: The Cuisinart air fryer-toaster oven basket holds about eight 3-inch wide latkes.)
- Air fry at 375°F until the latkes are crispy and golden brown (about 8 to 10 minutes).
- Serve with toppings.
Looking for more holiday dishes to round out your menu? Find additional recipes for a festive Hanukkah.
Deborah Rood Goldman, a longtime member of the Garden City Jewish Center in Garden City, NY, is the congregation’s immediate past president. She is a former digital communications producer for the Union for Reform Judaism. A native New Yorker, Deborah grew up on Long Island, and holds a bachelor’s degree in American civilization from Brown University and a master’s degree in library science from Queens College.