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Air Fryer Potato Pancakes Recipe

Potato pancakes, also known as latkes, are a delightful and crispy dish made from grated potatoes, often mixed with onions and spices, then fried until golden brown. This air fryer version offers a healthier alternative to the traditional method by using significantly less oil while still delivering the same satisfying crunch. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course, these pancakes are a versatile addition to any meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Eastern European, Jewish
Servings 4 people
Calories 121 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Grater or food processor with grating attachment
  • Mixing bowls
  • Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth
  • Spoon or scoop
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and grated
  • 1 small onion, grated
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for greasing the air fryer basket

Instructions
 

Prepare the Potatoes and Onion

  • Peel and grate the potatoes using a grater or food processor.
  • Grate the onion and combine with the grated potatoes.
  • Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for achieving crispy pancakes.

Mix the Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with the beaten eggs, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Form the Pancakes

  • Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the potato mixture and form it into a flat patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Cook the Pancakes

  • Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil.
  • Place a single layer of potato patties in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
  • Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
  • Repeat with the remaining patties, greasing the basket between batches if necessary.

Serve

  • Serve the potato pancakes hot, garnished with your choice of sour cream, applesauce, or fresh herbs.

Notes

Tips for Success

  • Ensure you remove as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes to achieve the desired crispiness.
  • If the mixture seems too wet, you can add a bit more flour.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook the pancakes in batches if necessary.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the potato mixture.
Enjoy these delicious air fryer potato pancakes as a healthier twist on a traditional favorite!