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There are always two types of Trader Joe’s items in my shopping cart: the groceries that were actually on my shopping list, and the random treats I pick up along the way. I have to say, I tend to favor the latter. Because the store has an ever-rotating stock of goodies, you never quite know what you’ll find, and that’s all part of the fun! Each week, I’ll allow myself to try one new Trader Joe’s item, and one of my recent favorite discoveries is the frozen Latkes or Potato Pancakes.
What Are Latkes?
You’ve likely encountered a few different versions of potato pancakes, but the ones found in Jewish cuisine are known as latkes. Especially popular during Hanukkah, latkes are crispy, shallow-fried pancakes made from grated potatoes, eggs, flour, and onions. They’re often served with sour cream or applesauce.
Why I Love Trader Joe’s Latkes
From the moment I first tried these potato pancakes, they instantly won me over. Located in the freezer aisle near the hash browns, the palm-sized latkes come in a box of eight. While they can’t quite compare to the homemade version, they’re delicious in their own right. When cooked properly, they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and soft and savory on the inside.
One of my favorite things about the latkes is that they are super easy to prepare and take just a few minutes to go from frozen to ready to eat. The box details a few different methods for preparing the potato pancakes, but the best (and easiest) method is the air fryer. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes at 390°F or until cooked through and golden on the outside.
Ways To Enjoy Them
I’ve enjoyed Trader Joe’s Potato Pancakes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and they always get the job done. Their flavor profile is so versatile that they pair with almost any meal.
- Enjoy With Traditional Toppings: Latkes are traditionally eaten alongside sour cream or applesauce (my personal favorite). I always pick up a jar of Trader Joe’s Organic Apple Sauce to pair.
- Add Eggs and Avocado: Top your crispy latkes with a fried or poached egg and a few slices of creamy avocado for a savory breakfast.
- Serve With Soup: Serve latkes alongside a bowl of soup, like a classic tomato soup, matzo ball, or a lentil soup. The crispiness of the latkes is a great contrast.