Carrot Latkes
Whenever the weather turns crisp and the leaves start to fall, I find myself reminiscing about the flavors of my childhood. One dish that always comes to mind is Carrot Latkes. These golden, crispy delights were a staple during family gatherings and potlucks, not just for their delicious taste but also for the fond memories they carry. I remember the way my grandmother would lovingly prepare them, her kitchen filled with the aroma of freshly grated carrots and sizzling oil. Whether served as a side dish or a savory snack, these latkes have a way of bringing everyone together. And what’s even better? They are incredibly easy to make, which means more time enjoying the company of loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen.
Recipe Snapshot
45 mins
25 mins
20 mins
Medium
160 kcal
6 g
Standard
7 g
Oven, Grater, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Peeler, Wooden Spoon, Whisk
Why This Carrot Latkes Is a Winner
They’re Comfort Food At Its Best
There’s nothing quite like the warm comfort of crispy latkes, especially when they are packed with the natural sweetness of carrots. Each bite bursts with flavor, making them a go-to comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Versatile for Any Occasion
Carrot Latkes are perfect for more than just family gatherings. They make an excellent side dish for holiday feasts or a delightful appetizer for parties. You can serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, adding a creamy tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the carrots.
Healthy Yet Delicious
These latkes are not just tasty; they’re also a healthier option compared to traditional potato latkes. With the use of whole-wheat flour and the absence of heavy oils, you can enjoy these without the guilt while still satisfying your cravings.
Easy to Prepare
One of the best things about making Carrot Latkes is how simple the process is. Just a few ingredients come together to create a dish that looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s a win-win for busy home cooks!
Kid-Friendly Fun
If you’re looking for a way to get kids involved in the kitchen, these latkes are the perfect project. Grating carrots and mixing ingredients can be a fun activity for little hands, and they’ll love eating something they helped create.
Make Ahead and Freeze
Another fantastic aspect of Carrot Latkes is that they can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. Just cook them up, let them cool, and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven for a quick and delicious meal.
What You’ll Need for Carrot Latkes
Creating the perfect Carrot Latkes requires a selection of simple yet effective ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that crispy exterior and tender interior. The star of the show, of course, is the carrots, which not only add a natural sweetness but also contribute to the dish’s vibrant color. The flour acts as a binder, helping the latkes hold their shape during cooking. Together, these ingredients create a delightful harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Carrots (6 cups, peeled and grated) – The main ingredient, providing sweetness and texture.
- Whole-Wheat Flour (6 tablespoons) – This adds structure and helps bind the latkes together.
- Baking Powder (3/4 teaspoon) – A leavening agent that helps the latkes rise slightly during cooking.
- Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Eggs (3 large, beaten) – Provides moisture and helps bind the mixture.
- Greek Yogurt (1 cup, non-fat or low-fat) – Can be used as a topping or in the batter for added creaminess.
- Dill (2 tablespoons, finely chopped or 2 teaspoons dried) – Adds a fresh herbal note that pairs beautifully with the carrots.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed) – Brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder) – Infuses the latkes with savory depth.
- Kosher Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Additional seasoning to enhance overall taste.
Step by Step Instructions for Carrot Latkes
Cooking Carrot Latkes is a straightforward process, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping them up in no time! Follow these steps, and you’ll have crispy, golden latkes ready to enjoy. Trust me, the aroma of these latkes baking in the oven will make your mouth water.
Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. While it’s heating, prepare a baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray. If you prefer, you can use parchment paper; just make sure to spray it as well so the latkes don’t stick.
Next, take your grated carrots and place them in a colander. Use a paper towel to press down on them, removing as much moisture as possible. This step helps prevent your latkes from becoming soggy.
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole-wheat flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Now, add the beaten eggs and the drained carrots to the bowl. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flour to absorb some moisture and helps the latkes hold their shape better when frying.
With a spoon or your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart so they don’t touch.
Carefully transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Halfway through, flip the latkes to ensure both sides get golden and crispy.
While the latkes are baking, you can prepare the yogurt sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and minced garlic. This sauce makes a delightful topping and complements the flavors of the latkes beautifully.
Once the latkes are done, they should be crisp and golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the Carrot Latkes warm with the yogurt sauce on the side or drizzled on top. Enjoy every bite!
Things Worth Knowing
- Moisture Matters: Removing excess moisture from the carrots is crucial for achieving crispy latkes. The less moisture, the better.
- Binding Agents: The eggs and flour work together to keep the latkes from falling apart. Don’t skip these ingredients!
- Patience in Baking: Baking at the right temperature allows the latkes to become crispy without needing to fry them. This method is healthier and easier.
- Storage Tips: If you make a big batch, store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them slightly in the oven to regain their crispiness.
Recipe Notes about Carrot Latkes
Before you dive into making Carrot Latkes, here are some helpful tips to ensure your cooking experience goes smoothly:
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep them crisp.
- Freezing: These latkes freeze well! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
- Pairing: They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.
- Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, like parsley or chives, to add your personal touch to the yogurt sauce.
- Make Smaller Latkes: If you prefer bite-sized snacks, make smaller patties and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Best Served With
When it comes to enjoying Carrot Latkes, the serving possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic ideas:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted chicken or fish for a wholesome dinner.
- With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a green salad featuring a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
- For Breakfast: Enjoy them with a side of scrambled eggs for a nutritious start to your day.
- During Holidays: Perfect for festive occasions, serve them as a unique offering at Thanksgiving or Hanukkah.
- Storage Tips: Make a big batch and store extras for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy with apple sauce or a fresh herb yogurt sauce in spring for a vibrant taste.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Carrot Latkes are a delightful and versatile dish that captures the essence of comfort food. With their crispy texture and vibrant flavor, they make any meal feel special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s easy, healthy, and perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Carrot Latkes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray to coat (even if nonstick). Parchment paper can be used, but spray the parchment paper.
- Place grated carrots in a colander and press with a paper towel to remove most of the liquid from the vegetable.
- Add flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper to a bowl and stir to combine. Add beaten eggs and carrots. Stir to combine well. Let sit for 10 minutes. Form into patties (about 3 inches each) and place in rows on the baking sheet. Do not let patties touch.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until crisp, flipping halfway through.
- Meanwhile, whisk together all of the ingredients for the yogurt sauce and serve on the side or as topping.
- *Note: if batter is too wet to form patties, sprinkle in additional flour. If too dry, add an additional beaten egg.
