Ep 3. Hanukkah Latkes

Zoe Bakes Season 3 Episode 3, titled "Hanukkah Latkes," celebrates the Festival of Lights in a delicious and festive way. In this episode, host Zoe Francois teaches viewers how to make traditional potato latkes, as well as other creative variations that will impress any guest.

Latkes are a staple food during Hanukkah, and Zoe starts off by sharing the history behind the dish. She explains how the holiday celebrates the oil that miraculously lasted for eight days during the rededication of the Temple of Jerusalem, and how latkes are a symbol of that oil. Zoe shares her love for this holiday and emphasizes the importance of understanding the culture and history behind the food we eat.

Zoe then dives into the recipe and shows viewers how to make the perfect potato latke. She demonstrates how to form the patties, how to fry them in oil to achieve a crispy texture, and how to season them properly. Zoe also shares tips for making sure the latkes are perfectly cooked every time, including how to get rid of excess starch from the potato mixture and how to control the oil temperature.

While traditional potato latkes are delicious on their own, Zoe takes the dish to the next level by showing viewers several creative variations that will surprise and delight. She makes sweet potato latkes with a spiced apple sauce, adding a seasonal twist to the dish. Zoe also makes zucchini and feta latkes, which are a refreshing and savory departure from the traditional recipe. Finally, Zoe shares her recipe for potato latkes with smoked salmon and crème fraîche, which is perfect for a festive holiday brunch.

Throughout the episode, Zoe stresses the importance of using quality ingredients and taking the time to make the dish from scratch. She encourages viewers to make the latkes ahead of time and freeze them, so they can be served quickly and easily during the holiday season.

In addition to the latke recipes, Zoe also shares her recipe for homemade apple sauce, which is a classic accompaniment to the dish. She demonstrates how to make a simple and delicious sauce using apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar.

By the end of the episode, viewers will have learned how to make traditional potato latkes, as well as several creative variations that will impress any guest. With Zoe's guidance, making homemade latkes will feel easy and approachable, allowing cooks of all levels to participate in the Hanukkah traditions.