Classic Potato Kugel Recipe
Enjoy this classic Potato Kugel recipe, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family! Let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking
Equipment
- Box grater or food processor with grating attachment (for shredding potatoes and onions)
- Large mixing bowl
- Clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth (for squeezing out moisture)
- 9x13-inch baking dish (metal or glass works best for a crispy crust)
- Whisk
- Small saucepan (for heating oil)
- Oven mitts (for handling the hot baking dish)
Ingredients
- 6 medium russet potatoes about 2.5 lbs, peeled
- 1 large onion
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or matzo meal for Passover
- 1/3 cup neutral oil vegetable, canola, or avocado oil, plus extra for greasing
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder optional, for a fluffier texture
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- While the oven is heating, generously grease the 9x13-inch baking dish with oil. Place the greased dish in the oven to get hot. This step ensures a crispy crust.
Grate the Potatoes and Onion:
- Using a box grater or food processor, grate the peeled potatoes and onion. If using a food processor, use the grating attachment for even shreds.
- Transfer the grated mixture to a large bowl.
Squeeze Out Moisture:
- Place the grated potatoes and onion in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial for preventing a soggy kugel.
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
- Add the grated potatoes and onion, flour (or matzo meal), salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
Heat the Oil:
- In a small saucepan, heat the 1/3 cup of oil until it’s warm but not smoking. Carefully pour the warm oil into the potato mixture and stir to combine. The warm oil helps bind the ingredients and adds richness.
Bake the Kugel:
- Using oven mitts, carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven.
- Pour the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the center is set.
Let It Rest:
- Once baked, remove the kugel from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to slice.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut the Potato Kugel into squares or wedges and serve warm.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Pair with roasted chicken, brisket, or grilled fish.
- For Brunch: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce and a side of smoked salmon.
- As a Snack: Cut into smaller pieces and serve with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or tzatziki.