Latkes are fried potato pancakes that have become an integral part of the Hanukkah celebration. They a symbolic representation of the Hanukkah story, the miracle of oil, and the joy of the religious festival. Every year, families come together to enjoy the delicious latkes and remember the important events that make up the Hanukkah story.
Latkes are thought to have been around ever since the Maccabees rededicated the temple and found a small amount of oil that was enough to light the Menorah for eight days. Since that time, for each Hanukkah celebration, it’s now traditional to eat Latkes. This deep-fried snack symbolizes the miracle of oil, as well as the joy of the holiday.Table of Contents
What are Latkes?
Latkes are a type of fritter typically made with potatoes, eggs, matzo meal, and onions. The potatoes give the latkes a fluffy interior and golden-brown exterior that is difficult to resist. Traditionally, latkes are served with applesauce or Sour cream.
Why are Latkes a Traditional Hanukkah Food?
Symbol of Joy
Latkes are an expression of happiness. Just as the holiday of Hanukkah is a celebration of joy and the miracles that have occurred in Jewish history, Latkes are a tangible symbol of these things.
Light and Oil
Latkes are also fried in oil, as a way to recognize the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days to light the temple even though there was only enough for one night. The act of frying in oil is often seen as a special spiritual direction that makes the holiday meals richer.
Community Time
Latkes are a time for gathering and community. It’s a chance to get together with family and friends and share a meal of significance. Traditionally, latkes are made from scratch and it is common to have family members gathering around the table and helping to make the latkes for the upcoming Hanukkah dinner.
Overall, latkes are a traditional food for Hanukkah that offer a physical representation of the joy that the holiday brings and the oil that lit the temple lamps. It gives people an opportunity to get together and make a meal as a family. Whether latkes are eaten on their own or with applesauce and sour cream, they provide a delicious treat that holds special symbolism for the Jewish community.
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Last update 2023-11-27. Price and product availability may change.