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These Sweet Potato Latkes are a Hanukkah Favorite

By Charlotte Linde and Erika Veduccio December 15, 2023

Latkes are as much a tradition during Hanukkah as the lighting of the candles. We can't get enough of latkes — any time of year! What's not to love about this crisp fried potato pancake served with applesauce or sour cream?

Potatoes are such a delicious comfort food, and sweet potatoes are no exception. So we switched up the traditional potato latkes by using sweet potatoes — a twist that is delish at Hanukkah.


 Getty Images Signature via Canva

Sweet potato latkes

Makes about two dozen pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 5 large sweet potatoes, washed, shredded, and squeezed dry*
  • 1 scallion, chopped (white and light green parts only- reserve dark greens for garnish) 
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 2 Tablespoons matzoh meal 
  • 2 eggs
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Applesauce and sour cream for dipping (optional)

*You can skip all of the shredding and buy pre-shredded potatoes. Just thaw if frozen and squeeze dry.

Directions:

  1. Add sweet potatoes, scallions, seasonings, and matzoh meal in a large bowl.
  2. Beat eggs and then add to the sweet potato mixture and mix well.
  3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat, gently drop potato mixture into heated oil and flatten (we used a large ice-cream scoop).
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
  5. Place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
  6. Top with green scallions, sprinkle with more cinnamon, and serve with applesauce, sour cream, or honey for dipping.

Serve hot or at room temperature — heck, we even like the leftovers cold right out of the fridge —  that is, if you have any leftovers, of course! 


vm2002 via Canva

Enjoy, and Happy Hanukkah!