As the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer, the joy of Hanukkah fills our hearts with warmth and light. What better way to celebrate this eight-day festival of lights than by indulging in deliciously rich and flavorful foods? From classic potato latkes to sweet and savory treats, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering recipes to make your Hanukkah feast truly unforgettable.
Classic Potato Latkes with Sour Cream
Get ready to delight your senses with crispy, golden latkes and a tangy dollop of sour cream!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, grated
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, onion, egg, flour, and salt. Mix well.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
4. Fry latkes for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Applesauce for Latkes
Elevate your latke game with this simple and delicious homemade applesauce recipe, perfectly balanced to complement the crispy, savory potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart varieties work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the apple pieces, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Use a combination of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– Make ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Traditional Hanukkah Brisket
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a classic Jewish dish that’s sure to become a new family tradition – our tender and flavorful Hanukkah brisket. This slow-cooked masterpiece is perfect for the holiday season, and can be easily scaled up or down depending on your gathering size.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) beef brisket
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the brisket until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the brisket to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the oven.
7. Braise for 3-4 hours or until tender. Let rest before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Crispy Sweet Potato Latkes
Crispy Sweet Potato Latkes Recipe
Enjoy a delicious twist on traditional latkes with this sweet potato variation, perfect for a unique appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and grated
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine sweet potato, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a thick batter forms.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the sweet potato mixture into the hot oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain latkes on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes total
Cheesy Spinach and Mushroom Kugel
This creamy kugel combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and spinach with a rich, cheesy filling, making it a perfect side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of egg noodles
– 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until softened.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked noodles, mushroom mixture, and cheese mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Sufganiyot (Jelly Donuts)
These traditional Jewish donuts are a delightful treat for any occasion. With a light and airy dough, filled with a sweet jelly filling, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Jelly filling of your choice (e.g., strawberry, raspberry, or apricot)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add in milk and eggs, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat oil to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Drain excess oil and let cool.
6. Once cooled, fill the donuts with your chosen jelly filling.
Cooking Time:
– Rising time: 1 hour
– Frying time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Roasted Garlic and Herb Challah
This recipe combines the rich flavor of roasted garlic with the brightness of fresh herbs to create a unique and delicious challah bread perfect for sandwiching your favorite fillings or serving as a side.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cloves roasted garlic (see note), minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, melted butter, roasted garlic, parsley, and dill to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: To roast garlic, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut off the top of 2 whole heads of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and caramelized. Squeeze out the garlic cloves and use in the recipe.
Hanukkah Honey Glazed Carrots
Celebrate the miracle of Hanukkah with a sweet and savory twist on traditional roasted carrots. This recipe combines the warm spices of honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a delicious side dish perfect for your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrot pieces in a single layer.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the carrots and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Golden Matzo Ball Soup
Golden Matzo Ball Soup Recipe
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Golden Matzo Ball Soup, a classic Jewish dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 matzo balls (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Add the matzo balls and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Babka for Hanukkah
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with this rich and decadent Chocolate Babka, perfect for a sweet Hanukkah treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Spread melted butter and chocolate chips evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long side. Place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Savory Cheese and Onion Rugelach
Elevate your snack game with this savory take on the classic rugelach pastry. Flaky, buttery dough filled with a rich blend of cheeses and caramelized onions is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced and caramelized
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a small bowl, mix together cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture onto each square of dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
4. Top with caramelized onions and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Fold dough over filling to form triangles or squares, pressing edges to seal.
6. Place rugelach on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each pastry.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Hanukkah Gelt Brownies
Add a sweet and festive touch to your Hanukkah celebrations with these Spiced Hanukkah Gelt Brownies, featuring the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup of chopped gelt (Hanukkah coins)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and chocolate chips.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped gelt.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with the sweet and tangy taste of pomegranate, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, mix pomegranate seeds and honey.
5. Remove Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss with pomegranate mixture.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Hanukkah Challah Bread
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a delicious and traditional homemade challah bread, perfect for your Hanukkah dinner or as a gift to friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add the warm water, beating until a sticky dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs and oil until well combined.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Shape the dough into three long ropes, then braid together.
8. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds if desired.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Tzimmes
This sweet and savory tzimmes recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy texture of marshmallows, creating a unique and delicious side dish perfect for holidays or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: cinnamon stick or nutmeg for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine sweet potatoes and enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
3. Drain the sweet potatoes and add sugar, water, honey, and salt. Stir until dissolved.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with marshmallows.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Hanukkah Beef Stew
Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a hearty and flavorful beef stew that’s perfect for a chilly Hanukkah evening. This comforting dish is sure to become a new family tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
6. If using potatoes, add them to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Sweeten your day with these fluffy, soft, and utterly delicious homemade donuts coated in a crunchy cinnamon sugar mixture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the mixture rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Once risen, punch down the dough and use a piping bag or a spoon to drop small balls of dough into the hot oil.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. While still warm, toss donuts in cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including rising time.
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley Recipe
Get ready to warm up with a delicious medley of roasted root vegetables! This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large beets, peeled and chopped
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs and spices of your choice (e.g., thyme, rosemary, cumin)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, beets, sweet potato, and parsnips.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hanukkah Chocolate Chip Mandelbrot
Celebrate Hanukkah with a delicious and crispy mandelbrot infused with chocolate chips. This sweet treat is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts (if using).
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or diamonds).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Festive Hanukkah Apple Fritters
Ring in the Festival of Lights with these crispy, sweet, and tangy apple fritters, perfect for a Hanukkah celebration. These bite-sized treats are filled with tender apples, crunchy pecans, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup pecan halves
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped apples, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and apple cider vinegar to the apple mixture; mix until combined.
3. Fold in the pecan halves.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the apple mixture into the hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown; flip and fry for an additional minute.
7. Drain on paper towels; serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Hanukkah with these 20 delicious and festive recipes! From classic potato latkes with sour cream to crispy sweet potato latkes, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy traditional dishes like Hanukkah brisket and challah bread, as well as modern twists like cheesy spinach and mushroom kugel. Don’t forget the sweets – indulge in homemade sufganiyot (jelly donuts), chocolate babka, and cinnamon sugar donuts. And for a savory touch, try roasted Brussels sprouts with pomegranate or spiced Hanukkah gelt brownies. These recipes will make your Hanukkah celebration truly special.
