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Hanukkah on the Menu: A Flavorful Journey Through Food & Wine's Holiday Favorites

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/08 .. urney-through-food-wine-s-holiday-favorites.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, December 8th 2025 at 13:28 GMT by Food & Wine

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Hanukkah on the Menu: A Flavorful Journey Through Food & Wine’s Holiday Favorites

When the festival of lights arrives, it’s not just about candles and prayers – it’s also a chance to indulge in a culinary tradition that has been evolving for centuries. Food & Wine’s in‑depth exploration of Hanukkah recipes offers a delicious guide to the most beloved dishes of the holiday, from the crisp, savory latkes that echo the ancient story of the oil miracle to the sweet, yeasty sufganiyot that bring a playful modern twist. Whether you’re a seasoned celebrant or a curious first‑timer, the article distills the essence of Hanukkah cooking into approachable, mouth‑watering recipes, complete with expert tips, cultural context, and a dash of seasonal flair.

1. The Historical Roots of Hanukkah Cuisine

The article opens with a brief history lesson that frames the food in the story of the Maccabean Revolt. It explains how the miracle of a single day's oil in the Temple became a symbol of endurance and divine favor. Food & Wine links to a reputable source on Jewish culinary traditions, which elaborates on how the frying of potato latkes and sufganiyot (jelly donuts) became a symbol of the miracle itself—an act of honoring both history and the senses.

2. Classic Latkes: A Must‑Have

Why Latkes?
Latkes, the iconic potato pancakes, are a staple at every Hanukkah dinner. Food & Wine’s recipe section breaks down the essentials: grated potatoes, onions, a touch of flour or matzo meal, and the right seasoning blend. It stresses the importance of the “right amount of oil” for a golden, crisp exterior, while preserving the fluffy interior. The article even includes a quick “Sour Cream Dip” suggestion, a perfect accompaniment that brings acidity to balance the dish.

Modern Tweaks
For readers who want to shake things up, the article offers a few creative variations. One suggestion swaps classic potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweeter profile, while another recommends adding chopped chives or smoked paprika for a smoky undertone. Food & Wine includes a link to an online video demonstration that showcases the proper technique for achieving a crisp, golden finish—something that many home cooks struggle with.

3. Sufganiyot: The Sweet Counterpart

The Traditional Sufganiyah
Sufganiyot are the donut-like, yeast‑raised pastries that have become synonymous with Hanukkah. The Food & Wine article shares a step‑by‑step guide to making a perfectly fluffy sufganiyah, with emphasis on the importance of using a warm, but not hot, environment for proofing the dough. The article also mentions the cultural significance of the jelly or chocolate filling, and it offers an optional “nutella & peanut butter” hybrid for those looking to indulge a bit more.

Healthier Alternatives
The author does not shy away from the “health-conscious” reader. Food & Wine links to a separate section on how to make a baked version of the sufganiyah using olive oil instead of butter, or a sugar‑free version that uses stevia or erythritol. The article also includes a side note on how to incorporate nuts or dried fruit into the dough for added texture and nutrition.

4. More Hanukkah Staples

Beyond latkes and sufganiyot, the article paints a complete picture of a Hanukkah table. It lists additional classic recipes such as:

• Kugel – a baked noodle casserole, often sweet but sometimes savory with onions and cheese.
• Brisket – a slow‑roasted, tender cut that’s a centerpiece for many celebrations.
• Matzah Brei – a savory, quick breakfast option that uses matzo and eggs.
• Roasted Salmon with Citrus – a lighter entrée that brings a bright contrast to traditional fare.

Each recipe link leads to a full page on Food & Wine’s website, complete with photo galleries and ingredient lists. The author notes that each dish is carefully paired with complementary side dishes or drinks, ensuring that the entire meal reflects the warmth and joy of the holiday.

5. Pairings and Presentation

Wine and Spirits
Food & Wine’s article goes beyond food, offering suggestions for wine pairings that work with the hearty and sweet flavors of Hanukkah cuisine. For example, a dry Riesling is paired with the briny brisket, while a lightly sweet Pinot Noir complements the latkes. The article even suggests a festive “Hanukkah cocktail” made from orange liqueur, spiced apple cider, and a touch of honey, echoing the golden light of the menorah.

Table Settings
The piece touches on how the décor can amplify the celebratory mood. The article links to a side section on “Menorah‑Inspired Table Settings” where you can find tips on arranging candlelight, using silverware that matches the light, and incorporating colorful napkins that echo the colors of the Israeli flag.

6. The Spirit of Giving: Food‑Based Gifts

An often‑overlooked element of Hanukkah is the tradition of gifting. Food & Wine offers a creative idea: create a “Hanukkah Gift Basket” filled with homemade latke mix, sufganiyah batter, and a small bottle of olive oil or a bag of honey. The article provides a quick guide on how to assemble the basket, including optional add‑ons like a recipe card or a small jar of local honey. It links to a “Gift Ideas” section that expands on this concept with printable cards and decorative suggestions.

7. Final Thought: From Tradition to Table

The article closes with an invitation to experiment. Whether you’re honoring tradition or exploring new flavors, the recipes are designed to bring families together, spark conversation, and celebrate a history of resilience. Food & Wine encourages readers to take the recipes to the kitchen, share them with loved ones, and maybe even add their own family twist. The article’s concluding quote—“Let the lights guide your plates, and may your hearts be as warm as the oil that once saved a temple”—reminds us that Hanukkah, while rooted in ancient tradition, is also a living, evolving celebration of community, faith, and culinary creativity.

TL;DR

Food & Wine’s Hanukkah recipe roundup offers a full menu for the holiday: classic latkes, sweet sufganiyot, and additional staples like kugel, brisket, and matzah brei. The article weaves in historical context, cooking tips, and modern variations, and it extends beyond food to include drink pairings, table décor, and creative gift ideas. For anyone looking to honor Hanukkah with a delicious, meaningful meal, this guide is a handy, flavorful starting point.