There’s something truly delightful about taking the traditional latke and giving it a modern twist. Imagine crispy, golden-brown patties that not only satisfy your cravings but also elevate your dinner table with unexpected flavors. Enter burger-style latkes! I discovered this gem on a cozy afternoon when I was feeling adventurous in the kitchen. The combination of buttery potato with a luscious, baharat-spiced apple butter and a smooth garlic soured cream creates a symphony of tastes that you simply can’t resist.
Perfectly suited for any occasion, these latkes are not just a treat; they’re a statement dish that will wow your family and friends. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or just want to bring a smile to a loved one’s face, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both the palate and the heart. Join me in crafting these comforting burger-style latkes and let each bite take you to a delicious new realm!
Why are burger-style latkes a must-try?
Crispy Delight: These burger-style latkes offer a wonderfully crispy texture that crunches with every bite, providing an enjoyable contrast to the tender potato inside.
Flavor Explosion: Infused with baharat-spiced apple butter and creamy garlic soured cream, this dish bursts with unique flavors that tantalize your taste buds.
Easy Cooking: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious meal without stress.
Versatile Serving: Enjoy them as a main course, a side dish, or even a fun appetizer at gatherings—these latkes fit any occasion perfectly!
Healthy Twist: Nut-free, pregnancy-friendly, and vegetarian, these latkes cater to a variety of dietary preferences, making them an inclusive culinary choice.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this inviting, modern take on a classic favorite that’s sure to spark joy at your table.
Burger-Style Latkes Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious twist on traditional latkes!
For the Apple Butter
- Cooking Apples – Provides tangy sweetness for the apple butter; substitute with any tart apple like Granny Smith.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness of the apple butter.
- Baharat Spice Mix – Enhances the flavor profile with warm spices; can be replaced with pumpkin pie spice for a different taste.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the apple butter; can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Date Syrup – Adds natural sweetness; maple syrup can be used as an alternative.
- Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; use sea salt or kosher salt.
For the Latkes
- Desirée Potatoes – The main ingredient for latkes, providing a creamy texture; substitute with russet potatoes if necessary.
- Onions – Adds flavor and moisture to the latkes; shallots can be used as an alternative.
- Ground White Pepper – Adds subtle heat and flavor; black pepper can be used instead.
- Eggs – Binds the latke mixture together; flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute.
- Fine Matzo Meal – Provides structure; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be substituted for a gluten-free version.
- Vegetable Oil – For frying, ensures crispy latkes; can use olive oil for a healthier option.
For the Soured Cream
- Soured Cream – Base for the garlic sauce; Greek yogurt can serve as a healthier alternative.
- Garlic – Imparts flavor to the soured cream; fresh garlic enhances aroma and taste.
For the Slaw
- Toast Sesame Seeds, Olive Oil, Sesame Oil, Lime Juice, Dijon Mustard, Maple Syrup, Salt – Ingredients for the slaw dressing; adjust lime juice for acidity and sweetness.
- Pickled Cucumbers, Green Apple, White Cabbage, Red Onion, Fresh Coriander, Pickled Jalapeños – Make up the pickled cucumber slaw, balancing flavors with crunch; replace green apple with other crunchy fruits for variation.
For Serving
- Brioche Burger Buns – Serve as the base for latkes; whole grain or gluten-free buns can be used.
How to Make Burger-Style Latkes
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Make the Apple Butter:
Simmer cooking apples, apple cider vinegar, baharat spice mix, brown sugar, date syrup, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the mixture is sticky, about 25 minutes. Blend until smooth and set aside. -
Prepare the Latkes:
Squeeze excess moisture from the grated Desirée potatoes using a colander. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, half of the onions, ground white pepper, salt, eggs, and matzo meal. Form this mixture into six patties. -
Fry the Latkes:
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the latke patties carefully, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. -
Make the Soured Cream:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soured cream, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Set this aside; it will be a creamy topping for your latkes. -
Prepare the Slaw:
Whisk together the dressing ingredients of toasted sesame seeds, olive oil, sesame oil, lime juice, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and salt in a bowl. Add the pickled cucumbers, green apple, white cabbage, red onion, fresh coriander, and pickled jalapeños. Toss to combine everything evenly. -
Serve:
Assemble your dish by spreading a generous layer of garlic soured cream on the brioche burger buns. Place the crispy latkes on top, sprinkle with the remaining chopped onion, and finish with a drizzle of baharat-spiced apple butter. Serve with the refreshing cucumber slaw on the side.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Burger-Style Latkes?
Elevate your meal experience with these delicious burger-style latkes that offer a unique twist on a traditional favorite.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw balances the crispy latkes, adding a refreshing crunch with each bite. The bright flavors of lime and pickled jalapeños create a delightful contrast to the rich potato patties.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Sautéed green beans coated in garlic and butter add a vibrant green element. The buttery richness pairs excellently with the latkes, enhancing the overall experience.
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Sweet Roasted Carrots: Caramelized carrots bring a touch of sweetness, beautifully complementing the savory flavors of the latkes. Roasting brings out their natural sugars, creating a sweet element on your plate.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: For the ultimate potato extravaganza, serve these latkes alongside crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs. They deliver a delightful crunch and make for a warm, comforting meal.
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Sautéed Spinach with Lemon: A simple yet elegant sauté of spinach adds a nutritious touch. The lemon brightens the dish, making it light and zesty, which balances the richness of the latkes.
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Apple Cider Mimosas: Pair your latkes with refreshing apple cider mimosas for a bubbly twist. The crispness of the cider complements the sweet and savory flavors beautifully, creating a memorable dining experience.
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Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup add depth to your meal. Their caramelized flavor will meld delightfully with the spiced apple butter atop the latkes, enhancing every bite.
Burger-Style Latkes Variations
Feel free to customize your burger-style latkes with these fun and delicious twists that will elevate your meal to new heights!
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Sweet Potato Swap: Substitute Desirée potatoes with sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter flavor profile. Their vibrant color will also make your latkes eye-catching!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the latke mixture for a burst of herbal freshness. This twist not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely green touch.
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Cauliflower Latkes: For a lighter version, use grated cauliflower in place of potatoes. These cauliflower latkes have a deliciously different texture and flavor, perfect for a low-carb option!
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Spicy Kick: Enhance the latkes by adding finely chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the batter. This will give your latkes a delightful heat that pairs wonderfully with the apple butter.
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Cheese Lover’s Delight: Fold in shredded cheese such as cheddar or feta into the latke mixture before frying. The cheese melts beautifully, adding a savory richness!
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Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to create a vegan-friendly version of these delectable latkes!
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Zesty Slaw Upgrade: Instead of pickled cucumbers, try a slaw made with shredded carrots and a splash of orange juice for a fresh citrus note. This delicious crunch adds a different flavor dimension!
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Bun Alternatives: Use whole grain or gluten-free buns instead of brioche for a healthier take, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy these tasty latkes!
Storage Tips for Burger-Style Latkes
Fridge: Store leftover burger-style latkes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next meal.
Freezer: Freeze the latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months, preserving their deliciousness.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat the latkes in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method ensures they stay crunchy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestion: When ready to serve, pair them with the baharat-spiced apple butter and garlic soured cream for a delightful flavor experience!
Make Ahead Options
These burger-style latkes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to enjoy delicious homemade food with ease! You can prepare the latke mixture (potatoes, onions, eggs, matzo meal, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. The baharat-spiced apple butter can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply form the patties and fry them until golden brown and crispy for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Just remember to squeeze out extra moisture from the potatoes to maintain their delightful texture, ensuring every bite remains as tasty as freshly made.
Expert Tips for Burger-Style Latkes
- Moisture Matters: Squeeze excess moisture from the grated potatoes to avoid soggy latkes. This ensures a perfect crispy texture.
- Onion Addition: Press the remaining onions into the latkes while frying for enhanced flavor and a golden brown crust.
- Non-Stick Secret: Using a non-stick skillet can help achieve a deliciously crisp exterior, making your burger-style latkes even more irresistible.
- Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding patties; this promotes even cooking and prevents absorption of excess oil.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to regain that delightful crispness!
Burger-Style Latkes Recipe FAQs
What apples work best for the apple butter?
Using cooking apples like Granny Smith is ideal due to their tangy sweetness. However, you can easily substitute with any tart apple, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of flavor in your baharat-spiced apple butter.
How should I store leftover burger-style latkes?
Store your leftover latkes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for reheating whenever you crave these crispy delights! When you’re ready to enjoy them, just pop them into the oven to restore their crunch.
Can I freeze burger-style latkes?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cooked latkes in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. After about an hour, transfer them to a freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them straight from the freezer in a preheated oven to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Why are my latkes soggy, and how can I avoid this?
Sogginess often occurs when there’s too much moisture in the potato mixture. To prevent this, it’s essential to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from your grated potatoes using a colander or cheesecloth. For even better results, consider adding a bit of matzo meal to help bind and absorb any excess moisture.
Are these latkes suitable for vegans?
Yes! You can easily make these burger-style latkes vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water; let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This simple swap provides the binding needed for your latke mixture without compromising on taste!
What should I serve with burger-style latkes?
These latkes shine as a standalone dish, but pairing them with the baharat-spiced apple butter and garlic soured cream elevates their flavors even more! For an extra crunch, serve alongside the refreshing cucumber slaw, which beautifully balances the rich and savory latkes.
Burger-Style Latkes: A Crispy Twist You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Simmer cooking apples, apple cider vinegar, baharat spice mix, brown sugar, date syrup, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat for about 25 minutes until sticky. Blend until smooth and set aside.
- Squeeze excess moisture from the grated Desirée potatoes using a colander. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, half of the onions, ground white pepper, salt, eggs, and matzo meal. Form this mixture into six patties.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the latke patties, fry for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soured cream, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a bowl. Add the pickled cucumbers, green apple, white cabbage, red onion, fresh coriander, and pickled jalapeños. Toss to combine.
- Spread a layer of garlic soured cream on the brioche burger buns, place the crispy latkes on top, sprinkle with remaining chopped onion, and finish with a drizzle of baharat-spiced apple butter. Serve with cucumber slaw.