“Oh, Hanukkah, Oh, Hanukkah
Come light the menorah
Let's have a party
We'll all dance the hora” by Mordkhe Rivesman (1868 – 1924)
The Festival of Lights celebrates eight days and eight nights of special prayers, lighting the candles on the menorah, gathering of loved ones and special foods. It’s the only Jewish holiday mentioned in the bible and it celebrates a series of miracles that happened in the second century BC.
Then, the holy land was ruled by the Seleucids (Syrian-Greeks) who tried to indoctrinate Jews with their culture and religious beliefs ensuing in a battle. Beating the odds, a small and fierce band of Jews defeated the Seleucid army and drove them out of Israel. Upon lighting the Temple's Menorah (the seven-branched candelabrum), they found one clay pot of olive oil that would only last a day. Miraculously, they lit the menorah and the flame lasted for eight days. These miracles celebrate with the festival of Hannukah.
Of course, what’s a celebration without the food? To the pleasure of those who love all things fried, sweet and delicious, Hanukkah fare lauds the miracle that one clay pot of olive oil that burned the candles bright with many fried, delicious edibles. Certainly, every family has their traditional recipe, but sometimes it’s fun to step out and try new things. After all, you have eight days and eight nights to do it — so here are eight recipes sure to make it to your table. And however you celebrate, be sure to stock up on all your holiday spices and Hanukkah Sameach! — (Happy Hanukkah)!
Sufganiyot (Doughnuts)
Doughnuts
Three kinds here, chocolate, vanilla cream and strawberry filling. This recipe takes some time but the labor of love will be much appreciated.
Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich With Horseradish Cream and Radicchio
Hailing from Montreal-style Jewish deli, Mile End Delicatessen, this sandwich has spicy horseradish cream offset with bitter radicchio and complimented with a rich chicken schnitzel served on a beautiful challah. Yum!
Potato Jalapeno Latkes
Tradition with a spicy flair. Enjoy with horseradish crema.
Brisket With Mushroom and Onion Gravy
A delicious main meat course seasoned with savory mushrooms, garlic and onions.
Spinach-Garlic-Edamame Hummus
The trifecta dip. Enough said, try it!
Cauliflower Tempura
Try this fried starter with your favorite dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or even buttermilk ranch.
Grandma Rose's Kugel
Cheesy Caramelized Onion and Roasted Vegetable Tart
Easy to serve and a delicious starter or main course that everyone will enjoy.
Grandma Rose’s Jewish Noodle Kugel
See if Grandma Rose’s recipe rivals your traditional kugel.
Be sure to stock up on all the spices you’ll need this season. High Quality Organics Express has 15% off and free shipping for orders over $25. Happy Holiday!
