Hanukkah is just around the corner! It’s time to get out the schmaltz and start frying up some delicious latkes!  

No, latkes aren’t just hash browns and yes, they will be the best thing you have ever eaten. This is a European Jewish (Ashkenazi) dish that is essential for any good Hanukkah celebration. Even though you think “potato” when you hear latke, there are many variations on how to make them, including substituting with cheese or turnips. If you are adhering to a Kosher diet, the potato is the way to go when using chicken schmaltz (rendered fat) to fry. Make them thin and crispy or thick and full of flavor! 

What you need: 

• Sour cream (as dip) 
• Apple sauce (as dip) 
• 1 ½ lbs. Baking potatoes 
• 2 tbsp. Matzo meal 
• 1 Egg 
• Kosher salt (to taste) 
• Ground black pepper (to taste) 
• 1/2  Yellow onion
• 12” skillet 

To get started:  

1. Wash and peel potatoes. 
2. Grate potatoes and onions. 
3. Squeeze out excess moisture of potatoes and onions with a cheese cloth. 
4. Heat chicken schmaltz in pan.  
5. Mix in egg, matzo, and salt and pepper. 
6. Take even amounts of mixture and shape into patty. 
7. Let patty fry on each side until golden brown. 
8. Remove from pan and let rest on a paper towel. 

Carla

Born in the Mahoning Valley and lived in Washington D.C and Pittsburgh. I love learning new skills and cultivating hobbies. I’m usually sitting in front of a computer, which is my favorite place to be. I love teaching coding, 3d design and getting people of all ages to enjoy technology. You can see me at the Austintown and Michael Kusalaba libraries.

Mary Kelly

Mary Kelly is an adult services librarian currently based at the Austintown and Michael Kusalaba branch libraries. She’s a big fan of all things mystery and thriller. When she’s not at the library, she enjoys walking her dogs, practicing yoga and true crime podcasts.