Crispy Lacy Potato Kugel Delight
This Crispy Lacy Potato Kugel is a family favorite that has been perfected over generations. Originating from the 'Kosher Palette Cookbook', this dish features a tantalizingly crispy exterior that gives way to a beautifully creamy and lacy interior. Ideal for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, this kugel is not only delicious but also freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prepping. You’ll be delighted by the balance of savory flavors and the hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Idaho potatoes
6 large (peeled)
onions
2 large (1 diced and 1 quartered)
eggs
4 large (lightly beaten)
oil
5 tablespoons (for mixing)
salt
2-3 teaspoons (to taste)
fresh ground pepper
to taste (optional)
potato starch
1/4 cup (for thickening)
boiling water
1 cup (for mixing)
oil
1/4 cup (for baking)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) to prepare for that perfect crispy texture.
2
In a skillet, sauté the diced onion over medium heat until they are deeply caramelized, stirring occasionally to avoid burning; set aside.
3
While the onion is caramelizing, use the fine disc of a food processor to grate the peeled Idaho potatoes.
4
Once grated, squeeze out excess liquid from the potatoes and transfer them into a large mixing bowl.
5
Without changing the blade, process the quartered onion until finely chopped and mix it into the bowl with the grated potatoes, along with the caramelized onions.
6
In the bowl, add the lightly beaten eggs, 5 tablespoons of oil, salt, and freshly ground pepper to taste; mix until well combined.
7
Sprinkle the potato starch evenly over the mixture, then pour the boiling water on top, stirring thoroughly until everything is evenly incorporated.
8
In a 9x13-inch baking pan, add 1/4 cup of oil and place it in the preheated oven for about a minute until hot – be careful not to let it burn.
9
Carefully pour the potato mixture into the hot oil in the pan, spreading it out evenly.
10
Bake for 20 minutes at 500°F (260°C).
11
After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue to bake for an additional 40 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown and crispy.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Lacy Potato Kugel Delight?
It is a traditional Jewish side dish featuring a tantalizingly crispy exterior and a creamy, lacy interior, perfected over generations.
Where did this recipe originate?
This specific version of the recipe originates from the 'Kosher Palette Cookbook'.
What kind of potatoes are best for this kugel?
Large Idaho potatoes are recommended for the best texture and results.
How many potatoes do I need?
The recipe calls for 6 large Idaho potatoes.
Should the potatoes be peeled?
Yes, the potatoes should be peeled before being processed or grated.
How are the onions prepared in this recipe?
Two onions are used: one is diced and caramelized in a skillet, and the other is quartered and finely processed.
Can I freeze the Crispy Lacy Potato Kugel?
Yes, this dish freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prepping or advance holiday preparation.
What is the secret to the crispy texture?
The secret involves preheating the oven to a high temperature of 500°F and preheating the oil in the baking pan before adding the mixture.
Why is boiling water used in the potato mixture?
Boiling water is stirred into the mixture after the potato starch to help create the unique lacy and creamy interior texture.
What size baking pan should I use?
A 9x13-inch baking pan is the standard size for this recipe.
Do I need to squeeze the liquid out of the potatoes?
Yes, after grating the potatoes, you must squeeze out the excess liquid to ensure the kugel reaches the correct consistency.
What role does potato starch play?
Potato starch acts as a thickener and binding agent for the kugel mixture.
What are the oven temperature settings for baking?
Start by baking at 500°F (260°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 400°F (200°C) for the remaining 40 minutes.
How long does it take to bake the kugel?
The total baking time is 60 minutes: 20 minutes at high heat and 40 minutes at a lower temperature.
How many eggs are required?
The recipe requires 4 large eggs, lightly beaten.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
How much oil is needed in total?
You will need 5 tablespoons of oil for the mixture and an additional 1/4 cup for the baking pan.
What equipment is best for grating the potatoes?
A food processor fitted with a fine disc is recommended to achieve the 'lacy' texture.
How do I know when the kugel is done?
The kugel is finished when the top is a deep golden brown and has a visible crispy texture.
Can I use ground pepper in this recipe?
Yes, freshly ground pepper to taste is recommended to enhance the savory flavor.
Is there any sugar in this kugel?
No, this is a savory potato kugel recipe that relies on caramelized onions for a hint of natural sweetness.
Should the oil in the pan be hot before adding the potatoes?
Yes, place the oil in the pan in the oven for about a minute until hot before carefully pouring in the mixture.
Is this a good dish for family gatherings?
Absolutely, it is described as a family favorite that is ideal for gatherings and holiday celebrations.
What is the flavor profile of the kugel?
It features balanced savory flavors with a subtle hint of sweetness from the caramelized onions.
How do I caramelize the onions?
Sauté the diced onion in a skillet over medium heat until deeply caramelized, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Can I use any other type of starch?
The recipe specifically calls for potato starch to maintain the authentic texture and keep it kosher for various holidays.
Do I need to change the blade when processing the second onion?
No, you can process the quartered onion immediately after the potatoes without changing the blade.
How much salt should I add?
The recipe suggests 2-3 teaspoons of salt, adjusted to your personal preference.
Is the potato mixture spread out in the pan?
Yes, once poured into the hot oil, you should spread the mixture out evenly across the pan.
What is the best way to serve this?
It is best served warm as a side dish alongside your favorite main course.