Latkes are a delicious potato pancake that is fried in oil. They are traditionally eaten as part of Jewish Hanukkah celebrations and have a long history. Add this to my Recipe Box.
The Hannukah Story
According to the Telmud, the Temple in Jerusalem was desecrated by Syrian forces in 168 B.C. Afterward, there was only enough olive oil remaining to burn the Temple flame for one day. Miraculously, this oil continued to burn for eight days until new oil could be pressed. This came to be celebrated by Jewish people as Hanukkah. During Hanukkah it became a tradition to eat foods cooked in oil, reminiscent of the oil that burned in the temple. Eventually, latkes--being fried in oil--were adopted as a Hanukkah food.
Beginning of Latkes
Potato pancakes originated in 16th century Europe when potatoes were introduced from the new world. They can be found in the cuisine of Luxembourg, Russia and several countries in eastern Europe. European Jews adopted potato pancakes and gave them the Yiddish name, latkes.
Modern Latkes
Modern latkes are made with potatoes but can include additional additives such as olives or cheese. They are commonly served with apple sauce or sour cream and are enjoyed by Jewish and non-Jewish people alike.
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