Like many Jewish holidays, Hanukkah is all about the food. Celebrating the story surrounding the rededication of the Second Temple (circa 2 BC), where a day’s worth of oil lasted 8 days; long enough for more oil to be made for use in the temple’s menorah. Jews of course have traditionally used this as an excuse to eat as much deep fried food over an eight day period as possible. Here are some of my Hanukkah favourite treats!
Staying with the fried theme, potato latkes are sure to be found at any Hanukkah dinner party. Traditionally served with apple sauce or sour cream, this treat is effectively a fried potato and onion pancake.
For a bit of a change from the traditional, try making these sweet-potato latkes with some kicked-up sour cream on the side.
Traditionally, kids are given chocolate coins on Hanukkah known as ‘gelt.’ Often a game of dreidel (a variation of a spinning top) will be played to win more!
In recent years bakers have started making iced cookies in shape of traditional Hanukkah symbols. Menorahs, dreidels, and Stars of David are all popular over the holidays.
Looking for holiday inspiration? Visit the YMC Holiday Guide to find everything from sweet treats and delicious dishes to DIY décor and favourite family movies. If it’s holiday related, you’ll find it here.
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