Celebrating Jewish Holidays with Food and Tradition
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Passover
Passover is one of the most beloved Jewish holidays. It traditionally commemorates the Israelites’ Exodus from Egypt. For eight days, it is celebrated with a variety of foods, such as matzah, a type of unleavened flatbread. Eating matzah is a reminder of the unleavened bread the Israelites ate when they fled Egypt. During the Seder meal, many families will partake in drinking four cups of wine. The four cups are a healthful tribute to God’s four expressions of redemption throughout the Seder.
Rosh Hashanah
Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the Jewish New Year. It is celebrated by gathering with family and friends, eating traditional foods, and exchanging well wishes. During Rosh Hashanah, people eat sweet foods such as honey cake, apples and honey, and sweet-spiced challah. Pomegranates are a traditional symbol of Rosh Hashanah because they are said to symbolize having the desire to do good deeds. Other popular items on the Rosh Hashanah menu include raisin-filled borekas, kreplach (dumplings) and tzimmes (a mixture of vegetables and sweet fruits).
Hanukkah
During the eight days of Hanukkah, Jews commemorate the Maccabee’s rededication of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem. It is customary to light a menorah, which symbolizes a guiding light, and to enjoy traditional treats such as latkes (potato pancakes) and sufganiyot (jelly-filled doughnuts). A type of card game called “Dreidel” has become a favorite way to pass the time. Everyone plays with chocolate coins, and the winner takes all of them.
Shavuot
Shavuot is an important spring harvest celebration. On Shavuot it is traditional to decorate your home with bright and colorful fruits and vegetables to remind us of the bountiful fruits of the land. Dairy foods are especially popular - cheesecakes, blintzes, and knishes are just a few of the delicious Shavuot foods. In many communities pizza and ice cream parties are held as the traditional delicacies. All of these dishes are meant to keep the Jewish tradition of celebrating the harvest alive.