From The Food Encyclopedia by Jacques Rolland and Carol Sherman
A crisp, golden "pancake" made from matzo meal, coarsely grated onions and potatoes tossed with beaten eggs, then fried in oil. Usually latkes are simply seasoned with salt and pepper. A tradition for the Jewish holiday Hanukkah, they arrive at the table piping hot, with applesauce and sour cream served on the side.
