Do Jews eat latkes on Hanukkah?
In short, latkes are generally consumed on Hanukkah to commemorate the miracle of the oil lasting eight days in the story of the event Hanukkah comemorates, the rededication of the Holy Temple.
What are 4 popular foods at Hanukkah?
Hanukkah Foods
- Brisket. Brisket is enjoyed during many Jewish holidays besides Hanukkah, such as Rosh Hashanah and Passover.
- Latkes. Latkes, also known as potato pancakes, are made from shallow-fried shredded or mashed potatoes.
- Kugel.
- Sufganiyot.
- Hanukkah Gelt.
Why are potato pancakes eaten during Hanukkah?
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.
Are latkes for Passover or Hanukkah?
Though latkes are traditionally eaten on Hanukkah, they can technically be served on Passover when made with matzo meal. Also known as potato pancakes, latkes are made with shredded or ground potatoes and onions, then deep-fried to a golden brown.
When did latkes become a Hanukkah tradition?
The latke appears to have materialized as a Chanukah food by the late 18th century.
What is the story behind latkes?
Latkes come from the story of Judith, a fearless woman who is known as a Jewish heroine for beheading the Assyrian army’s general, Holofernes. How did she do it? Fed him some salty, cheesy pancakes and went in for the kill when he passed out drunk on her wine.
What do you serve with latkes?
What to Serve with Latkes
- Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese.
- Poached Egg.
- Applesauce.
- Old-Fashioned Beef Stew.
- Roast Chicken.
- Simple Tossed Green Salad.
- Sour Cream.
- Buttered Vegetables.
What do you eat on each night of Hanukkah?
A perfect Hanukkah meal might start with matzoh ball soup, have a traditional brisket at the center and a stack of potato latkes on the side. If brisket is not your thing, a simple roasted chicken would serve very nicely, too.
What’s the difference between potato latkes and potato pancakes?
Potato pancakes are more rounded than potato latkes and you can make them uniform more easily. On the other hand, potato latkes are also rounded, but you’ll notice shredded pieces of potato sticking out here and there. Finally, potato pancakes are thinner, while potato latkes are thicker.
Do Jews eat latkes at Passover?
Potato latkes are delicious at any time of the year, but this traditional Jewish food is slightly problematic during Passover. Latkes are typically made with flour, but during this holiday—which commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage—all chametz is forbidden.
Why do Jews eat latkes with applesauce?
Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah by consuming fried foods like latkes, as well as other foods cooked in oil during the eight-day holiday. The applesauce conceals the oiliness of the potato, while creating an explosion of fall food flavors in your mouth.