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Sweet Potato Latkes: A Sweet Twist on a Traditional Recipe

Latkes are a Hanukkah favorite

By Charlotte Linde & Erika Veduccio December 6, 2020

Latkes are as much a tradition during Hanukkah as the lighting of the candles. We can't get enough of latkes — anytime 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 the orange version — a sweet twist that is delish at Hanukkah, or any time of year.

Sweet potato latkes

Makes about two dozen pancakes

Ingredients:

  • 5 large sweet potatoes washed and shredded and squeezed dry*
  • 1 scallion chopped (white and light green part 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 your sweet potato mixture and mix well.
  3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat, gently drop potato mixture in 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 or 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! 

Enjoy, and Happy Hanukkah!

This story originally appeared in Macaroni Kid Eats! Find more family-friendly holiday recipes on Macaroni Kid Eats!