Schnitzel Latkes bring the best of both worlds: a juicy piece of chicken coated in a crispy latke exterior instead of traditional breadcrumbs. This results in a mouthwatering combination of crunch and tenderness, and it pairs perfectly with either a ginger-spiced apple sauce or a zesty lemon aioli. It’s a delightful dish for anyone who enjoys a fusion of comfort food and crispy textures.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
-
For the Schnitzel Latkes:
-
1 cup all-purpose flour
-
4 eggs
-
Salt, black pepper, and paprika
-
A dash of hot sauce (optional)
-
4 medium Russet potatoes (1.4 kg or 3 lbs)
-
1 medium yellow onion (250 g or 9 oz), peeled
-
1 cup cornstarch (128 g)
-
½ cup breadcrumbs (60 g)
-
1/3 cup sesame seeds (45 g)
-
4 large chicken breasts (1 kg or 2.2 lbs)
-
Oil for frying
-
-
For the Ginger Apple Sauce:
-
¾ cup apple sauce (200 g)
-
1 small knob of fresh ginger (5 g), finely grated
-
Salt, to taste
-
-
For the Lemon Aioli:
-
2 egg yolks
-
3 garlic cloves
-
Zest of 1 small lemon
-
Juice of ½ small lemon
-
1/3 cup neutral oil (such as avocado oil, 75 g)
-
Salt, to taste
-
Directions
-
Prepare the dredging station: Set up two quarter sheet pans. One with flour, and the other with beaten eggs, a pinch of salt, black pepper, paprika, and a drizzle of hot sauce if using. Mix well with a fork.
-
Grate the potatoes and onion: Scrub the potatoes, then grate them along with the onion using a coarse grater or food processor. Add them to a large pan, season with a pinch of salt, and massage the mixture until the potatoes release some liquid. Squeeze out the liquid by placing the mixture in a cheesecloth, twisting and pressing. Discard the liquid.
-
Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast into cutlets. For large schnitzel latkes, slice the chicken three-quarters of the way through and unfold. Pound the cutlets to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thickness.
-
Coat the chicken: Dip the chicken cutlet in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it in the egg mixture, then press it into the potato mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
-
Fry the schnitzels: Heat 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat to 360°F (180°C). Fry the schnitzel latkes for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a cooling rack.
-
Make the ginger apple sauce: Mix the apple sauce, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
-
Make the lemon aioli: In a jar, combine the yolks, garlic, lemon zest, and juice. Use an immersion blender to blend while slowly adding oil to emulsify. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
-
Serve: Serve the schnitzel latkes hot, with ginger apple sauce and lemon aioli on the side.
Nutrient Facts (per serving)
-
Calories: 450-550 kcal
-
Protein: 35-40 g
-
Total Fat: 25-30 g
-
Saturated Fat: 3-4 g
-
Monounsaturated Fat: 6-7 g
-
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2-3 g
-
-
Carbohydrates: 35-45 g
-
Dietary Fiber: 3-5 g
-
Sugars: 4-6 g
-
-
Cholesterol: 120-150 mg
-
Sodium: 500-600 mg
-
Potassium: 600-700 mg
-
Vitamin A: 4-6% of the Daily Value (DV)
-
Vitamin C: 10-15% of the DV
-
Calcium: 4-6% of the DV
-
Iron: 10-12% of the DV
The Inspiration Behind Schnitzel Latkes
Schnitzel, a popular dish in European cuisine, especially in Germany and Austria, is typically made by coating thinly pounded meat, usually veal or chicken, in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs before frying it until golden and crispy. Latkes, on the other hand, are a traditional Jewish dish, typically made during Hanukkah, consisting of grated potatoes and onions fried to perfection. The unique combination of these two dishes results in something special: the tender juiciness of schnitzel paired with the crispy, savory crunch of latkes. This creative fusion dish celebrates both Jewish and European culinary traditions, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Why Schnitzel Latkes Are a Game-Changer
What makes Schnitzel Latkes so unique is the way the crispy exterior transforms the ordinary schnitzel experience. Traditionally, schnitzels are coated in breadcrumbs, but using grated potatoes and onions instead adds another layer of flavor and texture that is simply unbeatable. The potato crust provides a hearty bite, and the addition of onions imparts a savory sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly. The result is a dish that is both familiar and new, offering the warmth and comfort of traditional recipes with a fresh, modern twist.
Additionally, the versatility of Schnitzel Latkes makes them an excellent choice for any meal. Whether you serve them as a main course for lunch or dinner, or as part of a larger spread for a special event, these schnitzels will undoubtedly impress your guests. The combination of chicken, potatoes, and onions offers a hearty yet balanced dish, making it ideal for anyone craving a satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques: How to Achieve the Perfect Schnitzel Latkes
To make perfect Schnitzel Latkes, the cooking techniques used are just as important as the ingredients themselves. One of the key steps in achieving a crispy and golden crust is preparing the potatoes and onions correctly. After grating the potatoes and onions, you’ll want to remove as much excess moisture as possible. This step is crucial because any excess liquid can prevent the latke mixture from binding together properly and can result in a soggy crust. To achieve this, simply place the grated mixture into cheesecloth, twist, and press to release the liquid.
Another important aspect of cooking Schnitzel Latkes is ensuring that the oil is heated to the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the crust will burn before the chicken is fully cooked. Conversely, if the oil is too cool, the schnitzels will absorb too much oil, resulting in greasy, heavy latkes. A medium-high heat of around 360°F (180°C) is ideal for frying. Using a thermometer to monitor the temperature ensures that you achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender on the inside.
Pairing Schnitzel Latkes with the Right Sauces
No schnitzel latke is complete without the perfect dipping sauce, and for this dish, you have two exceptional options to choose from. The first option is a ginger-spiced apple sauce, which provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory schnitzel latkes. The sweet and tart notes of the apple sauce, combined with the subtle heat of ginger, add depth and complexity to the dish, making each bite more exciting.
Alternatively, you can serve Schnitzel Latkes with a tangy lemon aioli, which offers a creamy, citrusy counterpoint to the crispy latkes. The aioli is made with egg yolks, garlic, and lemon, creating a smooth, velvety texture that complements the crispy crunch of the schnitzels. The fresh lemon zest and juice elevate the flavor, adding a bright and zesty note that cuts through the richness of the dish. Both sauces bring something unique to the table, so you can choose based on your personal preferences or offer both for your guests to try.
Healthier and Flavorful Comfort Food
One of the standout features of Schnitzel Latkes is how they manage to be both indulgent and relatively healthier than traditional schnitzels. The use of potatoes as the coating instead of breadcrumbs means that the dish is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions. The lean chicken breasts provide a good source of protein, while the potato coating adds a wholesome serving of carbs. The crispy texture of the latkes gives you the satisfaction of a fried dish, but with a unique twist that is just as satisfying without being overly greasy.
Furthermore, serving Schnitzel Latkes with a side of ginger-spiced apple sauce or lemon aioli allows you to add some fresh and healthy ingredients to the meal. Ginger, for example, has many health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, while the lemon aioli contains heart-healthy fats from the oil. These additions ensure that your meal not only tastes great but also offers some nutritional value.
Schnitzel Latkes for Every Occasion
Schnitzel Latkes are a fantastic dish for various occasions, whether you’re cooking for a family meal, entertaining guests, or celebrating a special holiday. The dish is perfect for cozy gatherings, providing a comforting and filling meal that everyone will enjoy. For holidays like Hanukkah, Schnitzel Latkes serve as a modern twist on traditional latkes, adding excitement to the menu while still honoring the beloved flavors of the season.
For a more festive touch, you can even serve Schnitzel Latkes as part of a larger spread at a party or buffet. They pair wonderfully with other comfort foods, and the variety of sauces allows your guests to experiment with different flavor profiles. Whether served on a weekday evening or at a special celebration, Schnitzel Latkes are sure to become a favorite on your menu.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Schnitzel Latkes
Schnitzel Latkes are a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. Combining the crispy, golden crust of latkes with the tender, juicy chicken schnitzel inside, this dish offers a truly unique dining experience. Whether you’re looking for something new for a weeknight dinner or a special treat for a holiday or gathering, Schnitzel Latkes deliver on all fronts. With the added versatility of different sauces like ginger-spiced apple sauce and lemon aioli, you can customize the dish to your taste preferences, ensuring that every bite is just as exciting as the last.
If you haven’t yet tried Schnitzel Latkes, now is the time to give them a go. Not only will you love the perfect balance of flavors and textures, but you’ll also appreciate how this dish elevates the classic schnitzel into something new and unforgettable.