Matzo Meal Latkes

Matzo Meal Latkes Recipe - Vegetarian food from Israel

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Matzo Meal Latkes are a delicious and traditional Jewish dish that is often enjoyed during Hanukkah. These crispy potato pancakes are made with matzo meal, eggs, and seasonings, and are fried until golden brown. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for dinner.

History

Latkes have been a staple in Jewish cuisine for centuries, with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. Originally made with just potatoes, onions, and seasonings, latkes have evolved over time to include a variety of ingredients such as matzo meal, cheese, and vegetables. They are traditionally eaten during Hanukkah to commemorate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of matzo meal
0.75 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of sugar
0.75 cup of cold water
3 eggs

How to prepare

Combine matzo meal, salt, and sugar.
Separate the eggs.
Slightly beat the yolks and combine them with the water.
Add the liquid to the dry ingredients.
Allow the mixture to stand for 15-20 minutes.
Beat the egg whites until stiff.
Fold the beaten egg whites into the matzo meal mixture.
Drop tablespoons of the mixture onto a hot, well-greased frying pan or griddle and brown on both sides.
This recipe makes 10-12 latkes.

Variations

Add grated vegetables such as zucchini or carrots for a twist on the traditional recipe.
Use different seasonings such as garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.
Substitute matzo meal with breadcrumbs for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the grated potatoes to ensure crispy latkes.

- Use a well-greased frying pan or griddle to prevent sticking.

- Cook the latkes on medium-high heat to achieve a golden brown color.

- Serve the latkes immediately after cooking for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Matzo Meal Latkes with sour cream, applesauce, or smoked salmon for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to grate the potatoes quickly and evenly.

- Use a non-stick frying pan to prevent sticking.

- Flip the latkes carefully to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute matzo meal with breadcrumbs or flour.

- Use vegetable oil instead of canola oil for frying.

- Use egg replacer for a vegan version of the recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the latke mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.

- Cook the latkes in advance and reheat in the oven before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the latkes on a platter with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives. - Garnish with fresh herbs or microgreens for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Matzo Meal Latkes with a side of smoked salmon and a green salad for a complete meal.

- Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or apple cider for a festive touch.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover latkes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Matzo Meal Latkes contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Matzo Meal Latkes contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Matzo Meal Latkes contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Matzo Meal Latkes contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Matzo Meal Latkes are a good source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Potassium.

Alergens

Matzo Meal Latkes contain eggs and may contain gluten.

Summary

Matzo Meal Latkes are a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in carbohydrates and proteins. They are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for any meal.

Summary

Matzo Meal Latkes are a delicious and traditional dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, these potato pancakes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a side dish or as a main course for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Matzo Meal Latkes. It was a cool autumn day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a faded handwritten note tucked between the pages. It was a recipe for Matzo Meal Latkes, written in beautiful cursive handwriting.

The note was dated back to the early 1940s, and it was signed by my great-aunt Miriam. She was known in our family for her delicious Jewish recipes, and I knew that this recipe would be a treasure to add to my own collection.

I remembered my great-aunt Miriam fondly. She was a vibrant and lively woman with a love for cooking that was infectious. Whenever she would come to visit, the whole house would be filled with the aroma of her delicious dishes. Her Matzo Meal Latkes were always a favorite among us, and I couldn't wait to recreate them in my own kitchen.

I decided to make the Matzo Meal Latkes for dinner that evening. I gathered all the ingredients I would need - matzo meal, eggs, onions, and potatoes. As I began to grate the potatoes, I couldn't help but think back to the stories my grandmother used to tell me about how she learned to make this dish.

According to my grandmother, the recipe for Matzo Meal Latkes had been passed down through generations in our family. It was originally brought over from Eastern Europe by my great-great-grandmother, who had immigrated to America in the late 1800s. She had learned to make the dish from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been cherished and perfected over the years, each generation adding their own twist to it.

As I mixed the grated potatoes with the matzo meal and eggs, I thought about how each ingredient represented a piece of my family's history. The potatoes symbolized the hard work and perseverance of my ancestors, who had toiled in the fields to provide for their families. The matzo meal represented their faith and traditions, passed down from generation to generation. And the eggs symbolized the new life and hope that each generation brought to the recipe, adding their own unique touch to it.

I heated up the oil in a skillet and began to fry the latkes, the sizzling sound filling the kitchen with a comforting warmth. As I flipped them over, I thought about all the memories and stories that were woven into this simple dish. I thought about my great-aunt Miriam, who had taken the time to write down the recipe so that future generations could enjoy it. I thought about my great-grandmother, who had stood in her own kitchen many years ago, making the same dish for her family.

As the aroma of the latkes filled the air, I knew that this recipe was more than just a dish - it was a connection to my past, a link to my ancestors. It was a way for me to honor their memory and keep their traditions alive.

I served the Matzo Meal Latkes for dinner that evening, and as my family gathered around the table, their faces lit up with joy. With each bite, they tasted not just the delicious flavors of the dish, but the love and history that had gone into making it. And as we shared stories and memories, I knew that this recipe would continue to be a cherished part of our family for generations to come.