If you're looking for a delicious and filling breakfast or snack that won't break the calorie bank, 2 pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes may be just what you need. These savory potato pancakes are a traditional favorite during Hanukkah, but can be enjoyed all year round! Each serving of 2 pancakes packs in approximately 140 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence that won't derail your healthy eating goals.

In addition to being relatively low in calories, Traditional Latkes are also a good source of nutrients. Each serving of 2 pancakes contains approximately 5 grams of fat, 19 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein. They are also a good source of micronutrients such as vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional profile of Traditional Latkes, explore their potential health benefits, and learn how to make them at home.

Calorie count of Traditional Latkes

As mentioned earlier, each serving of 2 pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes contains approximately 140 calories. This makes them a great choice when you want something tasty and filling but don't want to go overboard on calories. The exact number of calories can vary based on the recipe you use and the size of your pancakes.

Fat content of 2 Pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes

Each serving of 2 pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes contains approximately 5 grams of fat. Most of the fat comes from the oil used to fry the pancakes. If you want to reduce the fat content, you can try using a non-stick pan and minimizing the amount of oil you use. Alternatively, you can bake your pancakes in the oven instead of frying them.

Carbohydrate content of Traditional Latkes

Each serving of 2 pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes contains approximately 19 grams of carbohydrates. Most of the carbs come from the potatoes used to make the pancakes. If you're watching your carb intake, you can try using sweet potatoes or cauliflower instead of potatoes.

Protein content of 2 Pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes

Each serving of 2 pancakes (75 g) Traditional Latkes contains approximately 2 grams of protein. The protein comes from the eggs and flour used in the recipe. If you want to boost the protein content, you can try adding some cooked chicken or tofu to the pancake batter.

Micronutrient content of Traditional Latkes

In addition to being relatively low in calories, Traditional Latkes are also a good source of micronutrients. Each serving of 2 pancakes contains approximately 26% of the daily value (DV) for vitamin C, 6% of the DV for iron, and 7% of the DV for potassium. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage, iron is important for healthy blood function, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure.

Potential Benefits of Traditional Latkes

While Traditional Latkes are typically thought of as a tasty holiday treat, they may actually offer some potential health benefits. For example, the potatoes used to make the pancakes are high in fiber, which can promote healthy digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels. The eggs in the recipe are also a good source of protein, which can support healthy muscles and bones.

How to make Traditional Latkes

If you want to try making Traditional Latkes at home, there are plenty of recipes available online. In general, the recipe involves grating potatoes and onions, binding the mixture with eggs and flour, and frying the pancakes in oil until they are golden brown and crispy. You can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences by adding spices like garlic or cumin, or by using different types of potatoes.

Traditional Latkes vs. Other Pancakes

Compared to other types of pancakes, Traditional Latkes have a unique flavor and texture. They are typically denser and more savory than fluffy buttermilk pancakes or sweet crepes. If you're used to eating sweet pancakes, you may find Traditional Latkes to be an acquired taste. However, if you enjoy savory breakfast foods, you'll likely love them!

Traditional Latkes as a Gluten-Free Option

If you have celiac disease or are sensitive to gluten, Traditional Latkes can be a great option for you. Since the recipe typically contains potatoes instead of wheat flour, it is naturally gluten-free. However, make sure to read ingredient labels carefully, as some recipes may include wheat flour or breadcrumbs in the batter.

Traditional Latkes as a Hanukkah Tradition

In the Jewish tradition, Traditional Latkes are typically eaten during the holiday of Hanukkah. According to legend, Hanukkah celebrates the miracle of a small amount of oil burning for eight days in the Temple. To commemorate this miracle, Jews around the world light candles on a menorah and enjoy foods fried in oil, such as latkes and sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts).