Active Time

　　45 min

　　Total Time

　　45 min

　　Every family has its own (ahem, best) version of these savory potato pancakes. We’re offering you a classic formula, though not everyone drains the potato mixture before frying—we find this prevents the latkes from absorbing too much oil and allows them to crisp into golden disks. Maybe this will become the new family favorite.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 20 latkes

　　1 medium onion

　　3 pound russet (baking) potatoes (about 6)

　　2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

　　1/3 cup all-purpose flour

　　3 large eggs, lightly beaten

　　About 1 cup vegetable oil for frying

　　Accompaniment: sour cream

　　Equipment: a deep-fat thermometer

　　

Step 1

Cut onion lengthwise to fit feed tube of a food processor, then grate with medium shredding disk. Transfer to a large bowl (do not clean processor).

　　

Step 2

Peel potatoes and put in a bowl of cold water. Cut potatoes lengthwise to fit feed tube, then grate and add to onions. Toss with lemon juice, then with flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Add eggs and stir to coat. Transfer to a colander set over a bowl (potatoes will release juices).

　　

Step 3

Preheat oven to 200°F. 3Heat 1/4 inch oil to 360°F in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat. Using a 1/4-cup measure, scoop 4 or 5 mounds of potato mixture into skillet. Flatten with a fork to form 3 1/2-to 4-inch pancakes. Cook until golden brown, 2 1/2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined baking sheet and keep warm in oven while making more latkes.

　　Cooks’ note:

　　Cooked latkes can be frozen on a baking sheet, then transferred to a sealable bag or container and frozen up to 2 weeks. Reheat in a 450°F oven (about 5 minutes).