Crispy, Tasty, Kosher
What is the first food item that comes to mind when someone mentions Hanukkah? Latkes of course! They come in all sizes, flavors, varieties, and degree of crispiness - and are quite a mess to make.
We love latkes and are always on the lookout for a great new recipe or ready–made latke product. Much to our delight, a KosherEye Friend told us about Linda's Gourmet Latkes and suggested we try them. And try them we did!
Based in Los Angeles, CA, Linda's Gourmet Latkes was founded in 2004 by Linda Hausberg, a stay–at–home mother. We spoke with Linda and she shared her "latke journey" with us. It started with a casserole food sale at her daughter’s school. Linda made and contributed 120 tins of potato latkes – the latkes were a great success. She has always loved to entertain and enjoyed cooking for family and friends; so it was a natural progression from entertaining and making latkes for her family to opening a business that specialized in homemade latkes. "I approached a local store in February, 2005 and sold regular sized potato latkes." At the time, it was only Linda and one helper. Fast forward to today – the latkes are prepared in a commercial kitchen and shipped around the country. She told us, " I still love latkes and eat them... I also "dream" about latkes !" So, what is in the "latke" pipeline? "Possibly curry latkes" said Linda.
These are the perfect latkes to serve if you do not have the time, energy, or inclination to make your own. Actually, you don't need a reason! They are virtually fuss–free and do taste homemade. They are all natural, KSA kosher certified, kosher for Passover, available in two sizes—regular and mini–and five flavors: Potato (original), Sweet Potato, Green Onion, Southwest, and Gluten-Free Potato.
We are happy to say, we tasted each flavor and they are not your average pre–made latke. We followed the package baking directions, which suggested placing the latkes on a rack placed on a baking sheet. It took no time, maybe seven minutes at the most, to bake a perfectly crisp, moist, tasty latke. Everyone will think you made them yourself!
For many people at Hanukkah, the latke is the star of the meal and Linda suggests serving them with sour cream or applesauce (we love homemade). Have some fun and serve the mini latkes topped with smoked salmon, crème fraîche and a snip of chive. If you really want to impress, top with sour cream and a dollop of caviar. The mini latkes, "dressed with toppings", are a perfect hors d'oeuvre any time of the year! Use your imagination– the combinations are endless!
Another item for the KosherEye "gift yourself, gift others" list! Apparently, Oprah agrees, as Linda's Gourmet Latkes were selected for Oprah's Magazine 2010 Holiday "O" List.
For more information, to order, or to find a store locator, please visit LindasGourmetLatkes.com.