Alternative to Potatoes
The latke has evolved quite a bit since its origins around the 1600s. While most latkes are made from white potatoes and onions today, there are a number of alternatives you can choose from. For example, the base for your latkes could be made from sweet potatoes, turnips, zucchini, cheese and even rice.Global Recipes: Exotic Latke Recipes
Latkes for Hanukkah
Latkes are a traditional Hanukkah treat because they are fried in oil. The oil that is used to fry the foods is symbolic of the oil that burned for eight nights after the Maccabees' restored the menorah to their holy temple.About.com: Hanukkah Food
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References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Originated in Eastern Europe
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Typically eaten on Hanukkah to commemorate the holiday's historical link with oil
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Often garnished with applesauce or sour cream
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1910
Latkes introduced to American cuisineThe Big Apple: Latkes or Latkas
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An 8.5 ounce serving of potato latke has 245 caloriesWhole Foods Market: Potato Latkes
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If latkes are fried in animal fat, no dairy can be eaten with them according to the laws of KashrutAbout.com: Kosher Dietary Laws
