Ninja Blender Latkes (Without the Grated Knuckles) 

Did you know you could make latkes using your Ninja blender? It's actually a popular shortcut that many people swear by, for saving time and avoiding grated knuckles!

Key Differences in Texture

Traditional Hanukkah latkes are made with coarsely shredded potatoes (usually via a box grater or food processor's shredding disc) for that classic crispy, lacy edge with visible potato strands. Blending creates a smoother, more batter-like consistency, creamier on the inside, almost like a thicker potato crepe or Eastern European-style draniki. They're still delicious (often crispier in some ways and easier to flip), but purists might call them "potato pancakes" rather than strict latkes.

Basic Blender Latke/Potato Pancake Recipe (Adapted for Ninja)

Ingredients (makes about 12-15 small pancakes):

4-5 medium russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and cut into chunks

1 medium onion, quartered

2 eggs

1/4 cup all-purpose flour or matzo meal

1 tsp salt (or to taste)

1/2 tsp baking powder (optional, helps with lightness)

Pepper to taste

Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or schmaltz for extra flavor)

Instructions:

Add the onion, eggs, flour, salt, baking powder, and pepper to your Ninja blender first.

Add about half the potato chunks. Blend on medium-high or pulse until mostly smooth but with some small chunks remaining (don't overblend into total mush, short pulses work best to avoid gluey texture from excess starch).

Pour into a bowl, then blend the remaining potatoes and stir everything together.

Let the batter sit for 5-10 minutes (optional, to thicken). If it's too watery, add a bit more flour.

Heat 1/4 inch of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls (about 2-3 Tbsp each) into the hot oil, flatten slightly, and fry 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Drain on paper towels and serve hot with applesauce, sour cream, or both!

Tips for Success with a Ninja Blender

Work in batches if needed, don't overcrowd the jar.

Raw potatoes release liquid quickly, so fry soon after blending to prevent browning.

Squeeze out excess moisture from the batter (using a cheesecloth or towel) for extra crispiness.

If your Ninja has variable speeds, start low and pulse to control texture.

This method is quick, easy, and perfect if you're short on time (or tools). Enjoy your latkes - they'll be fantastic either way!

Chag Sameach!