Why do my latkes fall apart?

If your latkes are falling apart, a lot of times the culprit is too much moisture in the potatoes. Moisture is the enemy of good latkes. After you shred the potatoes for the mixture, you want to dry them out really, really well.

What is the difference between potato pancakes and potato latkes?

Both latkes and pancakes use potatoes and eggs as the main ingredients. Latkes, however, also include baking powder, matzo meal, and even milk sometimes. Potato pancakes usually do not include these ingredients. Potato pancakes can be made from raw and cooked mashed potatoes.

Why are my latkes not crispy?

Trying to cook too many at one time crowds the pan and makes the temperature of the oil drop, which will result in soggy latkes. Flip them when you see the bottom turning golden brown around the edges. Give them adequate time to brown– the less you flip latkes the better.

Can you shred potatoes ahead of time for latkes?

If you’re making them in bulk, and want to spread out the work, you can definitely grate up your (preferably Russet) potatoes a day in advance, but they suggest adding a little lemon juice or other citrus to the latke batter. This will help keep the potatoes fresh when it comes down to frying time.

What does boiling potatoes in baking soda do?

“Baking soda [what Americans call bicarbonate of soda] breaks down the pectin in the potato and draws starch to the surface. What do you get? Wonderful browning and a crispiness you wouldn’t otherwise achieve.”

What main dish goes with latkes?

Go Deli-Style: For a filling Hanukkah meal, make latkes the main course and serve with corned beef or pastrami, sauerkraut, mustard and any other favorite deli toppings.

Why do you put a little vinegar in the potato cooking water?

When cooking potatoes to use in potato salad, add a little vinegar to the water when boiling the potatoes. The vinegar causes the potatoes to form a thin crust, which helps them hold their shape.

Which is better baking powder or baking soda?

Baking soda is used in recipes that also include an acidic ingredient, such as cream of tartar, buttermilk, or citrus juice. Conversely, baking powder is typically used when the recipe doesn’t feature an acidic ingredient, as the powder already includes the acid needed to produce carbon dioxide.