Holiday Traditions of Hanukkah Jewish Celebration

Holiday Traditions in Israel: Hanukkah

The history of Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, dates back over two thousand years to the holy Temple of Jerusalem. The Temple was the spiritual center of the Jewish faith, housing the Torah, which contained the teachings of Moses as well as the laws and customs of Judaism. Over time, the Temple was controlled by different rulers, some of whom did not respect the Jewish faith and placed statues of their own gods in the sacred space.

The Miracle of Hanukkah

In 165 B.C., after years of war and persecution, the Jews regained control of the Temple. However, the Temple was in ruins and needed to be rededicated. According to legend, the Jews found only a small amount of oil to light the Temple’s lamp—enough to last just one or two days. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days and nights, allowing the Temple to be rededicated with proper ceremony. Hanukkah, meaning "dedication," celebrates this miracle of the oil. The holiday begins on the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar, which can fall anywhere between late November and late December.

The Lighting of the Menorah

One of the central traditions of Hanukkah is the lighting of the Menorah, a special candelabrum with nine branches. Eight of the candles represent each day that the oil burned, while the ninth candle, called the Shamash (helper candle), is used to light the others. Each night after sunset, one additional candle is lit using the Shamash, until all eight candles are glowing on the final night of Hanukkah. Families often gather around the Menorah to sing traditional Hanukkah songs and watch the candles burn.

Hanukkah Foods

Foods fried in oil play a significant role in Hanukkah celebrations, symbolizing the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days. Latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts) are two of the most popular treats enjoyed during this time. These delicious foods are often served with a variety of toppings, from applesauce to sour cream for latkes, and powdered sugar or chocolate for sufganiyot.

Family Traditions and Games

Hanukkah is a joyous time for families to come together, celebrating with special meals, games, and songs. A favorite game played during Hanukkah is the spinning of the Dreidel, a four-sided top with Hebrew letters on each side. The letters stand for "Nes Gadol Haya Sham," meaning "A Great Miracle Happened There." Children and adults alike enjoy spinning the Dreidel and playing for small treats, coins, or candies.

A Time of Joy and Thanksgiving

Like many Jewish holidays, Hanukkah is a time for families to reflect, give thanks, and celebrate their faith. Whether through the lighting of the Menorah, the sharing of traditional foods, or the playing of games like Dreidel, Hanukkah is a special time for creating lasting memories and honoring the miracle of light.

Holiday Traditions in Israel

Video by Jumpin' Jerusalem

Traditional Israeli Holiday Recipes

During Hanukkah, families in Israel enjoy a variety of traditional dishes, many of which are fried in oil to commemorate the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. These recipes bring warmth and flavor to the holiday season, making family gatherings even more special. Here are a few authentic Israeli holiday recipes:

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1. Latkes (Potato Pancakes)

Latkes are crispy potato pancakes fried in oil, making them a staple dish during Hanukkah. They are often served with applesauce or sour cream.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1 small onion, grated
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup flour or matzo meal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying
• Applesauce or sour cream (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes and onion with the beaten eggs, flour (or matzo meal), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the potato mixture into the hot oil and flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form pancakes.
5. Fry the latkes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with applesauce or sour cream.

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2. Sufganiyot (Jelly Doughnuts)

Sufganiyot are sweet, jelly-filled doughnuts traditionally enjoyed during Hanukkah. They are deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar, making them a delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Oil for frying
• 1 cup strawberry or raspberry jam
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the eggs, warm milk, melted butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a round cutter or glass to cut out circles of dough.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat. Fry the doughnuts in batches until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
6. Drain the fried doughnuts on paper towels.
7. Once cool enough to handle, use a piping bag to fill the doughnuts with jam. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

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3. Kugel (Sweet Noodle Pudding)

Kugel is a traditional Jewish dish that is often enjoyed during holiday gatherings. This sweet noodle pudding is made with egg noodles, cinnamon, sugar, and raisins, making it a comforting dish during Hanukkah.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz wide egg noodles
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, cottage cheese, sour cream, sugar, eggs, and cinnamon. Stir in the raisins.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and toss until the noodles are well coated.
5. Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the kugel is set and golden brown on top.
7. Let the kugel cool slightly before slicing and serving.

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4. Israeli Salad

Israeli Salad is a refreshing side dish made with finely chopped vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, tossed in a simple lemon and olive oil dressing. It’s a great accompaniment to rich Hanukkah dishes.

Ingredients:

• 4 cucumbers, diced
• 4 tomatoes, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

These traditional Israeli recipes are perfect for celebrating Hanukkah and bring the warmth and flavors of the holiday season to your table. Enjoy preparing and sharing these festive dishes with your family and friends!

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