20 Traditional Jewish Latke Recipe Cook Up Something Special!

Published on: Mar 31, 2024

As the holiday season approaches, many Jewish families are busy preparing for Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. A central part of the celebrations is the traditional Jewish latke, a crispy and delicious potato pancake that is enjoyed by people of all ages. This recipe has been passed down for generations and remains a beloved dish in Jewish households around the world. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the latke and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make this mouth-watering treat.

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Jewish Fried Artichokes

Main Ingredients: Artichokes, Olive Oil, Pepper, Salt, Fresh Lemons

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Fried artichokes are a classic Jewish appetizer that are perfect for any occasion. The crispy exterior paired with the tender and flavorful artichoke hearts make for a delicious and unique dish. Plus, they are super easy to make! Simply dip the artichokes in a mixture of flour, eggs, and spices, and fry until golden brown. Serve with a side of lemon wedges for added flavor.

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Ricotta Cheesecake from Rome’s Jewish Quarter

Main Ingredients: Butter, Fresh Breadcrumbs, Large Eggs, Sugar, Cake

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This Ricotta Cheesecake is a must-try for any cheesecake lover. Originating from the Jewish quarter in Rome, this dessert is made with a combination of ricotta cheese and cream cheese, giving it a lighter and fluffier texture compared to traditional cheesecakes. The addition of lemon zest and vanilla extract adds a refreshing and fragrant flavor to this decadent treat.

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The Best Latke Hack Ever

Main Ingredients: Hashbrown Potatoes, Egg, Flour, Salt, Pepper, Vegetable

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Baked Sweet Potato Latkes (easy recipe!) - The Endless Meal®

Latkes are a staple in Jewish cuisine, and this recipe takes them to a whole new level. The secret ingredient? Instant mashed potatoes. Adding this to your latke mixture creates a fluffier and more consistent texture, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. Top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chives, or applesauce for a delicious and satisfying treat.

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Latke Waffles

Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Onion, Eggs, Salt, Pepper, Cooking

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Why make regular latkes when you can make latke waffles? This unique twist on the classic dish is a fun and delicious way to enjoy your latkes. Simply make your latke mixture and pour it into a waffle iron. The result? Crispy and perfectly shaped latkes that are perfect for stacking and topping with your favorite ingredients like smoked salmon, avocado, or poached eggs.

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Jewish Rye Bread

Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Flour, Rye Flour, Rye

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Jewish rye bread is a staple in Jewish delis and bakeries, and for good reason. This flavorful and hearty bread is perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoyed on its own. The key to making the perfect Jewish rye bread is using a combination of rye and bread flour, along with caraway seeds for added flavor. Bake until golden brown and enjoy fresh out of the oven.

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The Best Jewish Beef Brisket

Main Ingredients: Brisket, Large Carrots, Baby Potatoes, Garlic, Water

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No Jewish feast is complete without a delicious and juicy beef brisket. This recipe is a family favorite and is sure to become a staple in your household as well. The key to making the best beef brisket is to marinate it overnight in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and onions, before slow cooking it until it falls apart. Serve with a side of roasted root vegetables for a hearty and comforting meal.

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Make Jewish Chocolate Babka

Main Ingredients: Milk, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, All Purpose Flour, Salt

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Babka is a sweet and rich dessert that is a favorite among many Jewish families. This chocolate babka recipe is a crowd-pleaser and is surprisingly easy to make. The key to making the perfect babka is using a rich and decadent chocolate filling, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth and flavor. Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgent treat.

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Vegetable and Cheese Latke

Main Ingredients: Grated Carrot, Medium Carrot, Potato, Sweet Potato

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If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional latkes, this vegetable and cheese latke recipe is perfect for you. The combination of grated zucchini, carrots, and cheese creates a flavorful and nutritious latke that is perfect for snacking or as a side dish. Plus, it's a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet.

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Jewish Potato Knish

Main Ingredients: Butter, Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, All Purpose Flour

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Knishes are a classic Jewish snack that are perfect for any occasion. This recipe for potato knishes is a crowd-pleaser and is surprisingly easy to make. The key to making the perfect knish is using a flaky and buttery pastry dough, along with a savory and flavorful potato filling. Serve with a side of spicy mustard for added flavor.

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Jewish Brisket

Main Ingredients: Beef Brisket, Salt, Water, Ketchup, White Vinegar

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This Jewish brisket recipe is a staple in many Jewish households and is a must-try for any meat lover. The combination of tender and juicy beef brisket, paired with a flavorful tomato-based sauce, creates a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for any occasion. The longer you let it cook, the more flavorful and tender the brisket becomes.

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Traditional Jewish Chicken Soup (Jewish Penicillin)

Main Ingredients: Chicken, Cold Water, Large Carrots, Celery Stalks

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Jewish chicken soup, also known as "Jewish penicillin," is a comforting and nourishing dish that is perfect for any occasion. This traditional recipe calls for chicken, carrots, celery, and onions, along with a variety of herbs and spices for added flavor. Serve with a side of matzo balls for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Grandma Rose's Jewish Noodle Kugel

Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Butter, Large Eggs, Cottage Cheese, Sour

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Kugel is a baked noodle dish that is a staple in many Jewish households. This recipe, passed down from Grandma Rose, is a classic and delicious take on the traditional kugel. The combination of noodles, sour cream, and raisins creates a sweet and savory dish that is perfect for any holiday or family gathering.

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Jewish Brisket with Onion Gravy or My Mother's Brisket...

Main Ingredients: Brisket, Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Oil, Onions

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This Jewish brisket recipe is a family favorite and is sure to become one in your household as well. The key to making the perfect brisket is to marinate it overnight in a mixture of red wine, garlic, and onions, before slow cooking it until it falls apart. The result? A tender and flavorful brisket that is perfect for any occasion.

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Jewish Honey Cake

Main Ingredients: Eggs, Honey, Sugar, All Purpose Flour, Vegetable Oil

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Honey cake is a traditional Jewish dessert that is often enjoyed during Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. This recipe calls for a combination of honey, orange juice, and cinnamon, giving the cake a sweet and fragrant flavor. Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee for a delicious and comforting treat.

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Jewish Chicken Soup with Matzo balls…The Real Jewish...

Main Ingredients: Chicken Pieces, Medium Carrots, Onions, Dill, Parsley

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Chicken soup with matzo balls is a classic Jewish dish that is often enjoyed during Passover. This recipe calls for a rich and flavorful broth, along with homemade matzo balls for added texture and flavor. It's the perfect dish for when you're feeling under the weather or just in need of some comfort food.

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Jewish Apple Cake

Main Ingredients: Apples, Sugar, Ground Cinnamon, All Purpose Flour

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This Jewish apple cake recipe is perfect for any fall gathering or holiday celebration. The combination of apples, cinnamon, and walnuts creates a warm and fragrant cake that is perfect for snacking or as a dessert. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

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Latke Breakfast Sandwiches

Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Sweet Onion, Large Eggs, Flour, Kosher

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Take your breakfast game to the next level with these latke breakfast sandwiches. Simply sandwich your favorite breakfast ingredients, such as bacon, fried eggs, and cheese, between two latkes for a hearty and delicious breakfast. The crispy latkes add a unique and tasty twist to your traditional breakfast sandwich.

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Hungarian-Jewish Shlishkas - Potato Dumplings

Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Beaten Egg, Salt, All Purpose Flour

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Knedlíky are traditional Czech dumplings which use a dough similar to ...

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Shlishkas, also known as potato dumplings, are a classic Jewish dish that is a must-try for any potato lover. This recipe calls for potatoes, flour, and eggs, and can be served as a side dish or as a main course with a side of sour cream or applesauce. They're hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

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Butternut Squash Latke

Main Ingredients: Butternut Squash, Onion, Large Eggs, Whole Wheat Flour

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Butternut Squash & Leek Latke Benedict | Recipe | Leeks, Butternut ...

For a twist on traditional latkes, try making these butternut squash latkes. The combination of butternut squash, onions, and breadcrumbs creates a unique and flavorful latke that is perfect for fall. Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives for added flavor.

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Potato Latke Funnel Cakes

Main Ingredients: Russet Potatoes, Egg, Milk, Flour, Ranch Seasoning

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Crispy Potato Latkes • Sage to Silver | Recipe | Crispy potatoes ...

For a fun and creative take on traditional latkes, try making these potato latke funnel cakes. Simply grate your latke mixture and fry it in a funnel cake shape until crispy and golden brown. Top with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup or powdered sugar, for a sweet and savory treat that is perfect for any occasion.

The History of Latkes

Latkes, also known as potato pancakes, have been a staple in Jewish cuisine for centuries. The origins of this dish can be traced back to the Eastern European countries of Poland, Russia, and Ukraine, where potatoes were a cheap and plentiful crop. During the Hanukkah season, Jewish families would fry up these simple potato pancakes in oil as a way to commemorate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the ancient Temple in Jerusalem. Over time, the latke has become a symbol of the holiday, representing the importance of oil in the Hanukkah story.

The Traditional Recipe

Now, let's dive into the recipe for making traditional Jewish latkes. The key is to use russet potatoes, as they are high in starch and will give the latkes a crispy texture. You will also need onion, flour, eggs, salt, and pepper to complete the dish. First, grate the potatoes and onion together using a food processor or a hand grater. Then, place the mixture in a cheesecloth or kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial to ensuring that the latkes stay crispy during frying. Next, add the flour, eggs, salt, and pepper to the potato and onion mixture, and mix well. Heat a large skillet with oil, and scoop the mixture into the pan, forming small pancakes. Fry the latkes for a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.

Variations and Tips

While the traditional recipe calls for only potatoes and onions, there are countless variations of latkes that incorporate other ingredients such as apples, zucchini, or sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with different spices and herbs to add more flavor to the dish. One important tip for making perfect latkes is to make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the latkes will absorb too much oil and become soggy. You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of the potato mixture into the pan - if it sizzles, it's ready. In conclusion, the traditional Jewish latke is a beloved dish that holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many during the Hanukkah season. With this recipe and some tips and variations, you can create your own delicious latkes to share with family and friends. Enjoy the crispy and flavorful taste of this holiday classic!