It might be hard to believe that mere potato pancakes can symbolize the hardships and strife that the Jews have endured. These potato pancakes (called latkes) are meant to symbolize the miracle of Hanukkah, when the oil of the menorah in the ransacked Second Temple of Jerusalem was able to stay aflame for eight days even though there was only enough oil for one day. The symbolism comes in the form of the oil in which latkes are fried. Over a thousand years later, this miracle is still being celebrated by Jews across the world. Making latkes is one way in which the Hanukkah is celebrated. As a result of this, the tradition of making latkes is maintained in my family, and is typically a task that falls into the hands of my grandma. Every Hanukkah, my grandma’s latke recipe is used, whether the latkes are made by my grandma herself, my dad, or someone else in the family. The recipe is simple; first potatoes are grated and mixed with egg or some other binding ingredient, onions might be included in the mixture if desired. Afterwards, the potato mixture is formed into small circular pancake-like shapes. Finally, the pancakes are fried in oil until hot and crispy. Latkes are typically eaten dipped in sour cream or applesauce. Making latkes is a Jewish tradition that has been passed down for centuries, and has found itself in my family. In conclusion, latkes are important to me because they help preserve my family’s heritage, and they also taste really good.
Place(s): New York
– Wade Wichard
Relationship: Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant
FAQs
Potato pancakes have a creamy, almost mashed-potato-like center, with a thin, golden, crisp exterior. Latkes, on the other hand, should have a deeply browned crust, with wispy, lacy edges. Latkes also aren't hash browns.
What is the symbolism of latkes? ›
These potato pancakes (called latkes) are meant to symbolize the miracle of Hanukkah, when the oil of the menorah in the ransacked Second Temple of Jerusalem was able to stay aflame for eight days even though there was only enough oil for one day. The symbolism comes in the form of the oil in which latkes are fried.
How to keep potatoes from turning brown when making latkes? ›
Or, you can grate the potatoes hours ahead and store them submerged in water in the refrigerator. Drain them well and make the batter up to two hours ahead. (It doesn't matter if it discolors– when you fry them the latkes turn a beautiful golden brown).
What do Jews eat with latkes? ›
Latkes are often served with:
- Applesauce.
- Crème fraiche.
- Smoked salmon.
- Sour cream.
Latkes are consumed by Ashkenazi Jews (those from eastern Europe) to celebrate Hanukah.
What is the best oil for latkes? ›
Vegetable oil or canola oil is usually best, because of its high smoking point. Latkes were traditionally made with schmaltz, or chicken fat, so if you have access to it, you should certainly add it in, because it does contribute to the flavor.
Should I peel my potatoes for latkes? ›
Prepare the potatoes and onion.
Scrub 1 1/2 pounds russet potatoes well, but do not peel.
What grater to use for latkes? ›
Grate them by hand using the large holes on a cheese grater. Or, for the greatest ease, use the grater blade on a food processor: place the potato in the large feed tube, lock into place, turn on, and push through. Repeat with the other potatoes.
How much vinegar do you put in potatoes to keep them from turning brown? ›
Just like you might use a squirt of lime juice to keep guacamole from browning, a bit of lemon juice or white vinegar in the bowl with the potatoes will ward off gray hues. Use one teaspoon to a half gallon of water to get all the anti-browning impact with no noticeable flavor changes.
What are latkes called in Israel? ›
Its Modern Hebrew name, levivah (לְבִיבָה levivá), plural levivot, is a revival of a word used in the Book of Samuel to describe a dumpling made from kneaded dough, part of the story of Amnon and Tamar.
What to eat with those Latkes!
- Slow Roasted Pot Roast. I published this post last year & thought I would make this roast today so I am sharing the post again! ...
- Roasted Chuck Steak …. delish!!!!! ...
- Beef Stew in the Instant Pot ( or use a saucepan …. ...
- Apricot Tzimmes Brisket. ...
- Wine-Braised Brisket. ...
- Simple Roast Chicken.
Potato pancakes are associated with almost every European cuisine and are referred to as a variety of names including latkes (Jewish culture), kartoffelpuffer (Germany), bramborak (Slovakia and Czech Republic), draniki (Austria), tattifish (England) and rosti (Switzerland) (“Potato Pancake Background”, n.d).
Are latkes basically hash browns? ›
Latkes are basically Jewish hash browns. Traditionally served around Hanukkah (our Festival of Lights), these shallow-fried potato pancakes can be dressed up or served simply as a perfect comfort food.
What is the difference between Boxty and latkes? ›
Boxty is different from other potato pancakes or latkes, and you'll see that once you bite into one and notice the crispy hash brown-like outside and soft, dough-like inside.
What kind of potatoes are best for latkes? ›
Russet potatoes: Russet potatoes, or baking potatoes, are high in starch and have a dry, mealy texture. This type of potato is best for latkes because the dryness of the potato is partially responsible for that desirable, crispy texture. Yellow onion: Yellow onion adds a savory flavor to the latkes.
