When the craving for something crispy and comforting hits, these vegan potato latkes made in the air fryer are just the answer. They offer that satisfying crunch you want, without the fuss or mess of deep-frying. Plus, they’re completely plant-based, so you can enjoy them guilt-free any time of the year.
I remember the last time I made these latkes — it was a chilly afternoon, and I was juggling a few things in the kitchen while keeping an eye on the clock. Somehow, I lost track of time and ended up flipping half the batch a tad late, which actually made them even crispier than usual. The smell of frying potatoes mingled with the faint sweetness of the onion made it impossible to wait, so I grabbed one straight from the basket, still warm and a little greasy on the edges, and that first bite was pure comfort. I wasn’t perfect with the timing, but honestly, that’s part of the charm.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Effortless crispiness thanks to the air fryer—no deep frying needed, which means less oil and cleanup.
- Completely vegan and free from dairy or eggs, making it a snack everyone can enjoy.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated steps, just honest ingredients.
- Perfect as a quick afternoon snack or a cozy addition to holiday meals.
- Sometimes the latkes come out unevenly crispy, but that’s a little personality in each bite.
If you’re new to air frying or vegan cooking, these latkes offer a gentle introduction without sacrificing flavor or texture. They’re forgiving enough that even if you slightly overcook or under-season, they still turn out delicious.
PrintVegan Potato Latkes Air Fryer
Crispy and golden vegan potato latkes made effortlessly in the air fryer. These latkes are dairy-free, egg-free, and perfect for a quick snack or holiday treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and grated
1 small yellow onion, grated
1/4 cup chickpea flour
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
6 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Instructions
Place the grated potatoes in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Transfer the potatoes to a large mixing bowl.
Add the grated onion to the potatoes.
In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed and water. Stir well and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken, creating a flax egg.
Add the flax egg, chickpea flour, salt, black pepper, and baking powder to the potato and onion mixture. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Form the potato mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.
Brush both sides of each latke with olive oil.
Arrange the latkes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. You may need to cook them in batches.
Air fry the latkes at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Then, carefully flip each latke and air fry for an additional 10 minutes or until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the latkes from the air fryer and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite vegan sour cream or applesauce.
Kitchen Notes:
Using an air fryer makes this recipe incredibly approachable, especially if you’re not keen on managing hot oil. No fancy gadgets are required—just your trusty air fryer and a grater. I usually serve these with a dollop of vegan sour cream or a spoonful of applesauce, but they’re also fantastic alongside a fresh salad or steamed greens for a fuller meal. If you want to switch things up, adding fresh herbs like dill or chives to the mix can bring a fresh twist, though I haven’t tested every herb combo. Another idea is swapping chickpea flour with a little cornmeal for a different texture, but I’d keep an eye on cooking time since it might crisp up faster.
FAQ:
Can I make these without an air fryer? Yes, though the texture might differ. Baking or pan-frying works, but expect a bit less crispness and more hands-on attention.
How do I store leftovers? Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To bring back crispiness, a quick 5-minute air fryer reheat at a lower temperature works well.
Are these suitable for freezing? I haven’t tried freezing them myself, but if you do, reheat thoroughly in the air fryer or oven to restore that crunch.
Ready to try something crispy, cozy, and vegan? These latkes might just become your go-to snack when you need a little comfort in the kitchen.