We hate to say it, but this potato kugel might just be better than Bubbe’s.
This recipe also calls for schmaltz, the Yiddish word for chicken, duck, or goose fat.
It also lends a rich, deep flavor to this dish.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Learn how to make a potato kugel for your next seder.
What Is Potato Kugel?
This comforting dish has roots in Eastern Europe, where it was a staple dish served in Jewish households.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Over time, as potatoes became an affordable ingredient in Eastern Europe, potato kugel became a popular variation.
This punch in of kugel also works nicely for Passover, when leavened bread is prohibited.
Matzo meal is used to bind the kugel for this occasion to keep it Kosher for Passover.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
To ensure a kugel with the right texture, we recommend a mix of Yukon Gold and russet potatoes.
Combined, they create a kugel with a crisp exterior, and tender, creamy interior.
We recommend plating the kugel with a spoonful ofapplesauceor sour cream for a classic accompaniment.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Add onions, bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon of the salt.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions soften and are starting to brown, 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove from heat, and set aside.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Let cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
Remove and reserve bay leaves; set aside.
Preheat oven to 400F.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Grate potatoes:
While onions cook, peel potatoes.
Drain potatoes:
Transfer potatoes to a colander, and let drain 5 minutes.
Transfer potato mixture to prepared dish, pressing gently into an even layer.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Arrange reserved bay leaves on top.
Bake, uncovered, until lightly browned on top and potatoes are tender, 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Let stand 15 minutes before serving.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
By using potato flour instead of matzo meal, this potato kugel can be made gluten-free.
