Step 1 : Introduction to the question "What are latkes?"
...Hanukkah is a Jewish celebration that marks the re-dedication of Jerusalem's Second Temple and celebrates the Miracle of the Oil. To commemorate the small amount of oil that burned for eight days to keep the flame alight in the holy temple, the holiday table showcases food items made with and cooked in oil. Those celebrating Hanukkah enjoy potato pancakes, called latkes, during this time. In keeping with the tradition, cooks prepare latkes by cooking them in oil. Source: Parents.com
