Oil plays a significant role in the Chanukah story—a small jug of oil miraculously provided fuel for the Temple Menorah for eight days. As a result, Jews traditionally eat oily foods on Chanukah. Among the most popular Chanukah dishes are potato latkes (pancakes). Here are two vegan recipes you might want to try this year.

Potato Pancakes (from Meatless Meals for Working People)
Serves 6

3 cups cooked white potatoes, mashed
1 small onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 Tablespoons oil

Mix the mashed potatoes, onion, and seasonings together. Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Pour pancakes onto heated pan and fry on each side until light brown (about 8 minutes per side). Serve warm alone or with applesauce.

Quinoa/Sweet Potato Patties (from Conveniently Vegan)
Makes 8

1½ cups sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
4 cups water
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 teaspoons oil

Place sweet potatoes in a medium-size pot with 4 cups water over high heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium, and cook 35 minutes or until the potatoes are done. Drain and mash potatoes.

Meanwhile, place the quinoa and 2 cups water in a separate medium-size pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook 15 minutes.

Mix mashed sweet potatoes and cooked quinoa together along with the cinnamon. Form 8 patties and place in a lightly oiled large frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook 5 minutes on each side and serve warm.