Latkes are a popular breakfast item for Passover.
Pesach, or Passover, commemorating the exodus of the Hebrew slaves from Egypt, celebrates the religious, physical, and spiritual freedom of all humanity. For eight days, special foods are eaten and some foods are forbidden, such as milk from grain-fed animals and anything prepared with a leavening ingredient (baking soda, baking powder, yeast and flour). During the Passover Sabbath, work is prohibited so cooking isn't allowed. This has lead to breakfast foods that can be prepared the evening before and served without work.
Matzo
Instead of bread, matzos, which are unleavened, are traditionally served during Passover. They commemorate the Israelites, who had only enough time to bake flat bread using hot stones. In order for matzos to be kosher for Passover, they can't be exposed to water for longer than 18 minutes, which is the time it took to walk a Roman mile according to the Bible.
Kugels
Since kugels get their fluffiness from beaten eggs and matzo meal, instead of a leavening ingredient, they're perfect to make the night before and serve at room temperature the following morning. Kugels are a baked dish made of noodles, vegetables or potatoes. Variations can be sweet or savory and often include fruits and vegetables.
Latkes
Latkes are fried potato pancakes that are also popular during Chanukah, which falls in December. Latkes are made with shredded potato and matzo meal and topped with fruits and cheeses. To make latkes for Sabbath, they can be fried the night before, dried on paper towels, and stored in an airtight container. When storing overnight, be sure to place paper towels in between each latke to keep them from getting soggy. Topping them with fresh fruit will complete the morning's breakfast meal.
Chremslach
Chremslach are thick pancakes made from egg, matzo meal and spices. They're traditionally served with yogurt or sour cream. Chremslach have been on Passover menus for centuries, and are a regular at Sabbath breakfast tables. Variations include sweet potatoes, potatoes and matzo as main ingredients. Nutritional needs can be completed by adding fruit and vegetables to this fried pancake.
Tags: matzo meal, leavening ingredient, night before, paper towels, Passover Sabbath