It Doesn't Need To Be Hanukkah And You Don't Need To Be Jewish To Savor Potato Latkes! In America and many other parts of the world, the humble potato is a standard staple in our food stores. It can be prepared in so many ways for a side or even a main dish. In America, we have but a few recipes for the potato, such as baked or mashed. If you're tired of the same old potato, try some potato latkes. Although potato latkes are best known as a traditional food at the celebration of Hanukkah, this delicious dish may be enjoyed by anyone, anywhere. It's quick and simple to prepare, may be served as a savory or sweet dish and makes a nice change from the usual potato dishes. Basically, potato latkes are formed of potatoes, either grated or mashed, and fried as a patty. In the traditional Jewish dish, potatoes and onions are grated and then combined with a seasoned matzoh meal and egg mixture. In other countries, where potato latkes are popular, such as Russia, Germany, India, Korea and several Eastern European countries, mashed potatoes and bread crumbs are prepared in a similar mixture. The traditional Jewish recipes usually call for a shaped patty, while other cuisines often drop by spoonfuls and then flatten with a spatula in the pan. Every family has their favorite version of latkes, so here we'll give you a generic recipe. While it's authentic, feel free to experiment with ratios of potatoes to onions or variations on the seasoning that suits your taste best. As a savory side dish, you can eat them plain, lightly salted, or top the latke with sour cream. Potato latkes are also good as a sweet dish, garnished with cinnamon and applesauce. You need 2 or 3 large potatoes, a small onion and 1 egg. Grate the potatoes and onion, or use mashed potatoes and diced onion. Add the beaten egg and a half teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Add ½ to ¾ cup breadcrumbs, or 2-3 teaspoons of matzoh meal or flour. If you wish, a teaspoon of sage or thyme will complement a meat or poultry entree. For somewhat of a souffle effect, add a teaspoon of baking powder to the mixture. Mix all of the ingredients throughly. Shape the potato latkes into small patties. If your chosen mixture isn't so thick, just drop spoonfuls directly into a skillet over medium heat, seasoned with 3 tablespoons of oil. Fry until nicely browned and a little crispy on the outside. Garnish as desired. Potato latkes are a nice alternative potato side dish, so easy and tasty, it may become a family favorite. Summary Potato Latkes are a tradition among Jewish people for the holiday of Hanukkah. You can make your own special version and enjoy this treat anytime. Basic recipe includes potatoes, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs or flour, and some simple seasonings such as thyme or sage. Experiment and find the perfect taste for your family. Related Articles Finding Good Cooking Tips Best Meal Ideas Related Sites