Traditional Hanukkah foods are not for the faint of heart since most are fried and/or loaded with cheeses. So, if you need to watch your cholesterol, eat sparingly of this holiday's special treats. These traditional and not so traditional variations of Hanukkah recipes are sure to please all, even if you're not Jewish.
Hanukkah Symbolic Foods
The traditional foods consumed during the Hanukkah holiday are symbolic of the events being celebrated. Most are fried in oil, symbolic of the oil that lasted eight days. Others contain cheese to celebrate Judith's victory.

Loukoumades are deep-fried puffs dipped in honey or sugar to represent the cakes the Maccabees ate, along with Soofganiyot (also Sufganiyot) and zelebi.

Pancakes are a traditional dish, serving as a reminder of the food hurriedly prepared for the Maccabees as they went into battle, along with the oil they are fried in as a reminder of the miraculous oil.

Latkes were originally symbolic of the cheesecakes served by the widow Judith, and later evolved to the potato/vegetable fried latkes most known today. Many cheese and dairy dishes are consumed in memory of brave Judith.

A newer tradition in the United States is the baking of butter cookies or pretzels in the shape of Hanukkah symbols while relating the stories. Children delight in helping and learn as they create, as well.
Hanukkah Recipes
The recipe collection includes many Hanukkah favorites such as latkes, bimuelos, cheese gilt coins, kugel, soft pretzels, brisket, tongue, and more. Although these foods are particularly significant during Hanukkah, you will enjoy them year-round.