Perfect Potato Pancakes (Latkes)

Crisp outside, moist inside, these delicious latkes are the real thing.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 3  large potatoes, peeled (about 2 lbs.)
• 1  small onion
• 1  large egg, lightly beaten
• 2  tablespoons matzo meal
• 1  teaspoon salt
•  fresh ground pepper
• 1⁄2 cup vegetable shortening, plus additional if needed
•  applesauce (optional)
•  sour cream (optional)

Directions

1. Grate potatoes on medium-fine grater into large bowl. Grate onion and mix with potatoes.
2. Carefully drain some of the liquid from potato m ixture. Stir in egg, matzoh meal, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat 1/2 cup shortening in large skillet over high heat until rippling.
4. For each pancake, spoon 1/4 cup potato mixture into skillet, flattening with back of spoon. Fry pancakes in single layer in batches, adding shortening if needed, until crisp and golden brown, 2-3 minutes each side. Serve pancakes immediately with applesauce and sour cream on the side, if desired.