My simple butternut squash latkes are the low‑carb, gluten‑free answer for anyone who can’t digest potatoes but still wants crispy, flavorful pancakes.
I adore traditional potato latkes, but after discovering I can’t tolerate potatoes, I developed this alternative that’s both lighter on carbs and SCD‑friendly.
Simple Recipe for Butternut Squash Latkes
These latkes balance a satisfying crisp with a gentle sweetness from the squash. They’re an easy, four‑ingredient recipe that works beautifully as a holiday side or a weekday treat.
Side Dishes Low Carb
One reason I love these butternut squash latkes is their texture: the exterior becomes golden and crunchy while the inside stays tender. They’re an excellent alternative if you’re keeping carbs at bay but still want something fried and festive.
Gluten Free Latkes
Below is the recipe for low‑carb, gluten‑free, SCD‑compatible butternut squash latkes. They make about 15 latkes and are simple to prepare.
I hope they brighten your holidays and bring smiles to your table.
Butternut Squash Latkes
Ingredients
- 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and grated (about 22 ounces)
- 1 small onion, peeled and grated
- 3 large eggs, whisked
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- grapeseed oil or olive oil, for frying
Instructions
-
In a large bowl, combine the grated squash, grated onion, whisked eggs, and salt.
-
Squeeze out as much excess liquid from the mixture as possible and discard the liquid.
-
Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a 9‑inch skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
-
Scoop 1/4 cup portions of the batter into the skillet and flatten each into a pancake.
-
Fry until each side is browned and crispy, then transfer to a paper towel–lined baking sheet to drain.
-
Repeat with the remaining batter.
-
Serve warm with applesauce and sour cream or yogurt.
Equipment
How to Reheat Latkes
To keep latkes crisp when serving later, place them on a paper towel‑lined baking sheet after frying to drain excess oil.
When reheating, arrange the latkes on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes—this helps them re‑crisp without getting soggy.
What is a Latke?
A latke is a fried pancake traditionally made from potatoes, often bound with flour or other starches. My versions use vegetables instead of potatoes to suit dietary needs.
Latke Pronunciation
Wondering how to say it? Latke is typically pronounced “LOT‑kuh,” with a soft, drawn vowel.
Is Latke a Yiddish Word?
Yes—the term comes from Yiddish but ultimately derives from the East Slavic oladka, meaning a small fried pancake.
Diagnosed with Celiac Disease
After my celiac diagnosis, I stopped eating many traditional recipes and focused on creating gluten‑free alternatives so I could still enjoy familiar flavors.
That effort led to recipes like these butternut squash latkes—comforting, adaptable, and gentle on the gut.
Recipes for Low Carb Latke
I follow a low‑carb approach as well, so I look for substitutes that reduce starch while keeping great taste and texture.
Low Carb Latkes
While butternut squash has more carbs than some non‑starchy vegetables, it contains roughly 60% of the carbohydrates in potatoes, making it a reasonable compromise for a fried holiday treat.
If you want to celebrate with oil‑fried foods without relying on potatoes, these latkes fit well into many low‑carb plans.
SCD Latkes
Because these latkes contain no potatoes or grains, they work with the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) and are gentle for people avoiding certain starches.
I’ve followed SCD for many years; it’s helped me manage gut health while still enjoying flavorful meals.
When is Hanukkah and Why Do We Eat Latkes?
Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, commemorates a miracle in which a small flask of pure oil burned for eight days. Frying foods in oil—like latkes and sufganiyot (donuts)—honors that miracle and has become a delicious tradition.
Families often serve latkes with applesauce or sour cream; my household also enjoys almond flour fried apples as part of our celebration.
Carrot Scallion Latkes: Vegetable Pancakes
We also enjoy other vegetable latkes, like carrot and scallion pancakes made with coconut flour. They brown beautifully and are packed with beta‑carotene and flavor.
Recipes for Gluten Free Hanukkah Food
At Hanukkah I always serve homemade applesauce with latkes. Other family favorites include homemade gelt and baked or fried treats adapted to be gluten‑free.
- Apple Sauce Recipe
- Homemade Hanukkah Gelt
- Recipe for Homemade Donuts
Happy Hanukkah
Latkes are just one delicious way to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Using vegetables as the base makes them a versatile, health‑minded option for holiday side dishes.
May the Festival of Lights brighten your season—enjoy crispy latkes and good company. This recipe originally appeared in 2007 and remains a family favorite.