Make no mistake about it, these are not your bubbe’s traditional crispy latkes. They’re a quick and dirty way to use up potato peels that have been discarded in pursuit of fluffy mashed potatoes or creamy gratins. The upside? No food waste AND you take advantage of all the nutrition potatoes have to offer, since the peels are full of fiber. I find a waffle iron makes quick work of these unconventional latkes, crisping both top and bottom all in one fell swoop. Don’t expect classic latke perfection here, but do anticipate something that satisfies and fills your belly. Serve these however you like your latkes: straight up, with a dollop of sour cream or creme fraiche, dunked in ketchup, or topped with a fried egg. Here’s how:
1. Put discarded potato peels in a colander, toss with salt, and leave for five minutes.
3. Transfer to a hot waffle iron and shut the lid.
4. Cook until nicely browned and tender.
Waffle Iron Potato Peel Latkes
Make the most of mashed potatoes by turning discarded peels into crispy potato pancakes done in a waffle iron. Serve with any of your favorite sides or top with a fried egg for a filling breakfast.
Ingredients
- 2 gently packed cups potato peels (peels from about 2 large potatoes)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 egg
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Ketchup, sour cream, creme fraiche, or other favorite sides
Instructions
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Preheat the waffle iron.
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Put the peels in a colander set in the sink. Sprinkle the salt over the peels and toss with your hands. Leave for 5 minutes.
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Crack the egg into a medium bowl and add several cracks of pepper. Whisk well.
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Use your hands to firmly squeeze the liquid from the peels like you're wringing out a sponge. Add to the egg. Smush everything together.
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Coat the waffle iron with non-stick spray. Scoop up about half the potato peel mixture and spread it over the surface of the waffle iron in a thin layer. Close the iron and cook until deeply brown, leaving it in beyond the beep of the waffle iron.
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Serve hot with favorite sides.