There’s something about the miracle of the Hanukkah oil that really speaks to me. Maybe because it’s the excuse I’ve been looking for to eat nothing but fried foods for a week straight. When Hanukkah comes around, my family and I gorge ourselves on latkes loaded with sour cream and gravlax or, ideally, caviar. But as the week wears on, I start to look for new ways to put fried goodness on the table. Enter: these falafel latkes.
I combine Trader Joe’s boxed falafel mix with russet potatoes, onion and egg for a vibrantly seasoned, extremely easy version of the classic Hanukkah staple. TJ’s falafel mix is redolent of cumin and garlic, which I love, but feel free to use your favorite mix. Because falafel is meant to be fried anyway, this recipe results in perfectly crispy-on-the-outside, pillowy-on-the-inside latkes every single time.
Note: The tahini-yogurt sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the fridge.
Latkes with Falafel Mix
These classic latkes are transformed with the simple addition of falafel mix.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
For the tahini-yogurt sauce:
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup tahini paste
- juice of one lemon
- salt and pepper, to taste
For the latkes:
-
½ cup vegetable oil, for frying
-
2 russet potatoes
- 1 small onion
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup Trader Joe’s Falafel Mix
Instructions
- To make the tahini-yogurt sauce, mince garlic and combine all ingredients, tasting and adjusting seasoning as necessary. (This can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the fridge.)
- Wash, peel and shred potatoes with a box grater or in a food processor. Cover with water in a medium bowl.
- With the box grater or in the food processor, shred the onion and set aside. Use a fork to briefly whisk eggs.
- In a medium skillet, heat ¼ cup vegetable oil over medium heat until a drop of water sizzles. Drain potatoes and use a kitchen towel to dry thoroughly. Combine potatoes and remaining latke ingredients, and mix to combine.
- Form latkes by hand, ¼-½ cup in size, and gently place in the hot vegetable oil. Cook for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Place cooked latkes on a baking sheet over a sheet pan, and sprinkle with salt. Use the remaining ¼ cup of vegetable oil as needed to keep a consistent layer of oil in the pan.
Notes
The tahini-yogurt sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hanukkah
The Nosher celebrates the traditions and recipes that have brought Jews together for centuries. Donate today to keep The Nosher's stories and recipes accessible to all.
Leave a Comment