If you’re like me, you might actually look forward to the somewhat laborious, smelly, and usually messy task of frying latkes. Then again, you may not, and therefore seeking an easier, quicker way to enjoy potato latkes that doesn’t leave your house smelling like the inside of a fast-food joint. And the answer is frozen, store-bought latkes.
My children and I took on the onerous task of taste-testing all the frozen latkes we could find. The bottom line: There are several really quality frozen options that will allow you to never have to wipe down a greasy stove again. Here were our favorites.
Best in Show: Trader Joe’s Classic Potato Latkes
Trader Joe’s can do little wrong in my book, and their classic potato latkes really hit the mark: crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and very easy to warm up in the oven. My kids liked these best, and I concurred. And considering Trader Joe’s has locations all over the country, their latkes are pretty accessible. Grab some applesauce, sour cream, or maybe even their everything bagel yogurt dip for the perfect Hanukkah nosh.
A Close Second: Golden Potato Latkes
Golden’s potato latkes were actually crispier than the TraderJoe’s kind, which for me was just a tad bit too crispy. Nevertheless, they heated up quickly and were delicious. Golden brands kosher foods are carried in several major supermarket chains.
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If You Want “Healthier” Latkes: Golden Zucchini Latkes
These latkes tasted like homemade zucchini-potato latkes and I thought they were excellent. Slightly less crispy than their all-potato counterparts, I thought if someone served these to me and didn’t tell me they were store-bought, I would not have known. My older daughter commented, “the veggie ones are actually pretty good” which is a ringing endorsement as any.
Delicious Gluten-Free Option: Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Latkes
Trader Joe’s comes through again with their cauliflower latkes, which are actually gluten-free and pretty darn delicious all year long. They aren’t dairy-free — in fact, they are pretty cheesy and creamy inside — so be warned.
