Hanukkah at NetCost Market

Hanukkah is the Jewish festival that celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem in a victory over the Syrian-Greeks in 165 BCE. It is celebrated for eight days and nights and includes a wide range of food fried in oil that results in a rich, indulgent feast. At NetCost Market we stock a selection of kosher foods that are perfect for celebrating Hanukkah. So, if you’re looking to put together a kosher banquet to celebrate this year’s festivities, here are some great food ideas brought to you by NetCost Market!

Challah – Challah is a special braided bread that is typically eaten at Jewish festivals. The egg-rich recipe means this bread has a rich, sweetened flavor and fluffy inner consistency. The loaf is ceremonially salted before it is served, salt is an important element of Jewish culture through Israel’s close links with the Dead Sea.

Gefilte Fish – Made using poached fish such as carp, pike or whitefish, this traditional starter has been part of the Hanukkah tradition for many centuries. The tradition of not eating fish and meat in the same meal should be observed at Hanukkah, which is why this dish is often eaten by itself or as a starter to another fish meal. Since the Second World War, gefilte fish has become more widely available, being sold in cans or jars that are then easily prepared.

Sufganiyot – These sweet, jelly or custard filled donuts are often the favorite for children at Hanukkah. They are deep fried, giving them a crispy outside layer but keeping the center fluffy and soft. The tradition of deep frying foods at Hanukkah is a custom that commemorates the miracle associated with the burning of the Temple oil. They are finished by being topped with powdered sugar, making them a great, tasty festive snack!

Rugelach – Rugelach is a Jewish pastry that resembles a croissant. The dough is made using cream cheese or soured cream, and they are filled with various sweet combinations of raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, chocolate, marzipan or preserved fruit. More recent innovations include savory versions of these pastries, which include fillings such as salted cream cheese, smoked salmon or chicken.

Pomegranate Juice – Pomegranate fruits are native to the region of Israel, and their juice and punches made from their juice are often drank at Hanukkah. The fruit is often harvested in Fall, making it perfect for early Hanukkah preparation. Why not try experimenting with making some Hanukkah influenced cocktails using pomegranate this year?

NetCost Market has an array of prepared kosher foods and raw ingredients with which you can prepare you and your family the perfect Hanukkah feast. With a great selection of imported and locally sourced goods, you can make the choice between the traditional food eaten at Hanukkah or take a slight twist with an American influence. Head down to your local NetCost Market to check out our great selection of kosher foods and to get prepared for the perfect Hanukkah experience this year!