With Hanukkah fast approaching, there’s no better time to compile a list of classic Jewish recipes to observe the Festival of Light. Below you’ll find lightened up versions of traditional favourites such as latkes, kugel, and sufganiyot as well as matzo ball soup, apple cake, and homemade rugelach. With the holiday spirit in mind, we wish you Hanukkah Sameach!
Latkes
Golden, crispy, and delicious, are three words that describe latkes, also known as potato pancakes, to a tee. Traditionally fried in oil, these WW-friendly latke recipes scale back on this integral component, while still yielding a familiar result. We’ve also included variations made with apple and cauliflower, and recommend experimenting with other root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. Most importantly, don’t forget to top your latkes with a dollop of low-fat sour cream, plain Greek yogurt or homemade applesauce.
Make Space for These Latkes on Your Hanukkah Menu:
Starters and Sides
Before sitting down to the big dinner, there’s no better way to set the celebratory mood than with smoked salmon canapés and individually plated seared foie gras. Kugel, a traditional Jewish casserole made with noodles and served as a side dish, is often made with sweet and warming add-ins such as apples and raisins, but we’ve also included savoury versions made with broccoli and spinach. Roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts round out the side dish selection, leaving you and your guests plenty of room for the main event.
Try These Celebratory Starters and Sides:
Mains
From a classic recipe for roasted brisket to an easy-peasy sheet pan version of chicken or beef smothered with tzimmes (a traditional stew made from root vegetables and dried fruit such as prunes or raisins), these main event recipes are sure to nourish and impress in equal measure. Brisket and pot roast can be made the day before, slow-roasted until meltingly tender, and gently reheated before dinner is served.
Make the Meal Memorable with These Comforting Main Dishes:
Sweet Treats and Baked Goods
Whether your favourite Hanukkah dessert is apple cake or rugelach, we’ve got all your bases covered in this selection of end-of-the-meal sweets and baked goods. For fans of sufganiyot, the beloved jelly-filled donuts served during Hanukkah, you’ll find a baked version below that’s just as rich and satisfying as its deep-fried counterpart. Rugelach, a type of filled Jewish pastry, is made simple thanks to the use of crescent roll dough in place of homemade pastry.