If you’ve ever been invited to a Hanukkah party, you can’t miss that the most popular Hanukkah food is potato latke or “levivot” in Hebrew. These potato pancakes are eaten by Jews around the world. They are traditionally made with grated white potatoes (and other ingredients) and cooked by frying in oil to celebrate the oil miracle (if you don’t know this story, read about Hanukkah on Wikepedia). However, they can also be made with sweet potatoes or other vegetables like zucchini and even parsnip. They can be mild or spicy and can be served with numerous types of toppings.

For a classic Ashkenazic latke recipe:

INGREDIENTS:
6 medium Idaho potatoes
2 medium yellow onions
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons flour (some people use matzo flour)
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
Canola oil

ADDRESSES:
Peel potatoes; place in cold water. Using a grater, grate the potatoes
and onions in a large bowl; you can also use a food processor.

Transfer the potato and onion mixture to a strainer placed over a bowl and
squeeze out excess moisture. Return the mixture to the bowl.

In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, flour, salt, and pepper.
Combine all the ingredients. You can add matzo flour or flour if the consistency is too fine.

In a large skillet, heat 1/2 inch of oil over medium-high heat.
Pour spoon-sized portions of the mixture into the oil. You can flatten them with a fork or spatula.

Fry until brown around the edges. Flip latkes until golden brown on each side (this may take 3-4 minutes per side. Place hot latkes on paper towels in skillet to drain excess oil.

Latkes are traditionally served with sour cream and / or applesauce.

For a different kind of latke experience …
I have also found several recipes for latkes that use a variety of ingredients, such as sweet potatoes featured in Moroccan latkes and spicy Indian latkes. If you’re having your own Hanukkah party, try making several types of latkes and serving them with various toppings, such as sour cream, yogurt, or homemade applesauce. I usually serve my first Hanukka meal night with various kinds of latkes, some dressings, and a nice large green salad. My family loves it and yours too.

For recipes for the latkes mentioned above, go to:

[http://www.jewish-art-and-gifts.com/latke-recipes.com]

TO ENJOY!