From shallow-fried potato latkes to deep-fried jelly doughnuts, traditional Hanukkah foods hinge on oil. Typically falling in December, the Jewish holiday, also called the Festival of Lights, celebrates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. As the story goes, the Maccabees had enough oil to last just one night, but somehow, someway, it lasted for eight.
Today’s tradition of lighting the menorah for eight consecutive evenings and, yes, eating lots of crispy fried foods, pays homage to that magical flame. But there’s much more to Hanukkah than potato pancakes and sufganiyot. Below we’re sharing 31 all-star Hanukkah recipes, like juicy brisket, noodle kugel, pillowy challah, and more. Just make sure you save room for dessert.
