Authentic New York Potato Knish

Name: Authentic New York Potato Knish
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 130 min
Yield: 8 portions
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed); 1 large egg (beaten); 1/2 cup cold water (more if needed); 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cubed); 1 large onion (finely chopped); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)

130 min 8 portions Medium

All Recipes

Savour the taste of New York with these delicious homemade potato knishes, featuring a perfectly seasoned filling wrapped in a flaky dough.

Prep

40 min

Cook

30 min

Total

130 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

The New York potato knish is a beloved street food classic, bringing together a soft and savoury potato filling encased in a tender, flaky dough. Whether you're from the Big Apple or just a fan of its iconic foods, this recipe is sure to satisfy your knish cravings. Our version of the New York knish keeps things traditional, using simple, high-quality ingredients to highlight the comforting taste and texture that knish lovers cherish. Perfect for snack time, as a side dish, or even a light meal, these knishes are a versatile addition to any table.

Instructions

Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the beaten egg and cold water until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 1 hour.

Pro tip: Chilling helps relax the gluten and solidify the butter for a flakier crust.

Cook the potatoes

Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender. Drain and mash until smooth.

Pro tip: Ensure potatoes are fully cooked to avoid lumps in the filling.

Prepare the filling

In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown. Mix into the mashed potatoes along with salt, pepper, and dill.

Pro tip: Taste the filling and adjust seasoning as needed.

Roll out the dough

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 15 cm (6 inch) circles.

Pro tip: A cool surface helps prevent the dough from sticking.

Fill and shape the knishes

Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the centre of each dough circle. Fold edges over the filling to form a pouch and pinch to seal.

Pro tip: Wet your fingers with water to help seal the edges.

Bake the knishes

Place knishes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling to prevent sticking.
For a richer flavour, use Yukon Gold potatoes.
Adjust seasoning in the filling to taste before assembling.
Serve warm or reheat in the oven for a crisp texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a New York knish?

A New York knish is a snack food consisting of a filling, usually potato, wrapped in dough and baked or fried.

How long does it take to make a knish?

This knish recipe takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes in total, including preparation, chilling, and baking time.

How many calories are in a potato knish?

A single serving of this potato knish contains approximately 250 calories.

Can knishes be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the knishes and refrigerate them before baking. They can also be frozen and baked directly from the freezer.

What is the best way to reheat knishes?

Reheat knishes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through to maintain their flaky texture.

What should I serve with knishes?

Knishes pair well with mustard, pickles, hot soup, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your New York knishes warm, ideally with a dollop of mustard or a side of pickles for an authentic deli experience. They pair wonderfully with a bowl of hot soup or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. To store, keep the knishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through to enjoy their full flavour and texture.