Hanukkah means two things to those that celebrate it - lighting the candles and food. As with many of the Jewish holidays, a large aspect of Hanukkah is gathering around the table with your closest family and friends and enjoying some delicious food. So without further ado, here are 7 classically Hanukkah foods.
1. Latkes and Applesauce
It simply does not get more Hanukkah than latkes. These potato pancakes are fried in oil in order to commemorate that miracle or Hanukkah - that the menorah was able to burn for 8 days straight. The sweetness of the apple sauce is the perfect compliment to the savoriness of the latke. Therefore, you will often find these two foods paired together.
2. Suffgoniot
Similar to latkes, suffgoniot are also fried in oil and are placed on the Hanukkah dinner table in order to remind those in attendance of the same miracle. Similar to jelly donuts, suffgoniot are often eaten as a dessert or as a snack during the holiday.
3. Brisket
Brisket is a dish served on many different Jewish holidays, but it is also perfect for Hanukkah. Since Hanukkah is celebrated during the winter months, brisket is the best comfort food to enjoy when it's cold outside. Brisket is often served as the main dish during a Hanukkah meal. It can be prepared in many different ways, but I think it is best when cooked in red wine.
4. Kugel
Kugel is another one of those dishes that can be enjoyed on many different Jewish holidays, but it is often found on the Hanukkah dinner table. Kugel can be made with a variety of different vegetables including broccoli, carrots, or potatoes. I personally like kugel best when it is made with egg noodles and raisins.
5. Chocolate Gelt
Chocolate Gelt was one of my favorite Hanukkah foods when I was little. It can be given as a gift, enjoyed as a dessert, or won while playing the Dreidel game. You can make chocolate Gelt yourself or buy it in a store, but always remember to grab all of the Gelt in the area if you spin a Gimmel while playing the Dreidel game.
6. Rugalech
Rugalech is probably my favorite Jewish dessert. It is a rolled pastry filled with either different fruit jellies or chocolate and topped with sugar. Rugalech can either be a sweet snack or the dessert to your Hannukkah dinner. Either way, it is sure to be delicious.
7. Matzoh Ball Soup
Matzoh Ball Soup is enjoyed on many different Jewish holidays ranging from Rosh Hashannah to Hanukkah to Passover. It is the warm and cozy perfect starter to your winter Hanukkah dinner. The great thing about Matzoh Ball Soup is that it can also be enjoyed days after your dinner.
Hanukkah is probably every Jewish child's favorite part of the year. Not only does it often involve presents, but Hanukkah means being able to share traditions, as well as, great food with all of your friends and family.