why do we eat potatoes on hanukkah

A common explanation is that we eat latkes (potato pancakes) because they are cooked in oil and this remind us of the miracle that a single cruse of oil found in the Temple lasted for eight nights.

It might be hard to believe that mere potato pancakes can symbolize the hardships and strife that the Jews have endured. 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. Over a thousand years later, this miracle is still being celebrated by Jews across the world. Making latkes is one way in which the Hanukkah is celebrated. As a result of this, the tradition of making latkes is maintained in my family, and is typically a task that falls into the hands of my grandma. Every Hanukkah, my grandma’s latke recipe is used, whether the latkes are made by my grandma herself, my dad, or someone else in the family. The recipe is simple; first potatoes are grated and mixed with egg or some other binding ingredient, onions might be included in the mixture if desired. Afterwards, the potato mixture is formed into small circular pancake-like shapes. Finally, the pancakes are fried in oil until hot and crispy. Latkes are typically eaten dipped in sour cream or applesauce. Making latkes is a Jewish tradition that has been passed down for centuries, and has found itself in my family. In conclusion, latkes are important to me because they help preserve my family’s heritage, and they also taste really good. Place(s): New York

The mixture is formed into patties, which are first fried on the griddle, then deep fried in oil (they use canola oil at Russ & Daughters).

Which is how the Brooklyn Museum justifies certain liberties taken by chefs participating in its annual latke festival. Have you ever heard of Vietnamese latkes? Or how about Korean sweet potato latkes?

Hanukkah is considered a minor holiday for Jews, but its got this going for it: The Talmud, Judaisms book of laws, decrees that during Hanukkah there is to be no grieving, and no fasting. No problem, if the latkes are good and plentiful.

But miraculously it lasted eight days. Centuries after the fact, Jews were told to celebrate by eating foods cooked in oil. But again, why latkes?

In 164 BCE, a devout Jew who called himself Judah Maccabee and his followers overthrew the Syrian Greek king who was trying to impose Greek customs and religion on the people of Israel. Hanukkah means “dedication.”

History of Latkes

FAQ

Why do Jews eat potato latkes on Hanukkah?

What is the significance of potato pancakes?

What is the history of potato latkes?

Why do we eat oily foods on Hanukkah?

Why do we eat potatoes on Hanukkah?

In fact, according to the Smithsonian Magazine, potatoes were so successful in Europe that “the effective result, in terms of calories, was to double Europe’s food supply.” Thus, potatoes changed the diet of Europe, became central to Hanukkah latkes, and the rest of the day-to-day menu.

Can potatoes cause hallucinations?

Potatoes contain solanine, a toxic glycoalkaloid. When consumed in excessive amounts, daily or frequently and prepared with the bark and green zones, intoxication can occur and cause hallucinations as one of the symptoms.

Do you eat potato pancakes during Hanukkah?

Let drain on paper towels. Salt to taste and serve hot! Hanukkah started Tuesday night and runs the whole week, eight nights in total. During these nights, a helluva lot of latkes, or potato pancakes, are consumed. To understand why, you first have to understand the story of Hanukkah.

Why do we eat fried cheese on Hanukkah?

Fried cheese commemorated the heroine Judith, who was central to Hanukkah celebrations during this time. Latke recipes changed from region to region, depending on what resources were plentiful and accessible.