Happy Hannukkah/Chanukah!
The not-so traditional sufganiyot -- doughnuts -- from my favorite Breads Bakery.
On Tuesday, December 12 -- the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar - Chanukah began. Chanukah means dedication and this festive holiday commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over Syria. The Temple in Jerusalem was rededicated and there was only enough oil to light the menorah for one day. Miraculously the oil burned for eight days.
There are two traditional foods for Chanukah and both involve oil. One is sufganiyot -- traditionally powdered jelly doughnuts -- but my favorite bakery put a modern spin on their holiday treats and the chocolate sufganiyot is filled with nutella. It was unexpected, but delicious.
The first night of Chanukah
On the first night of Chanukah one candle is lit and on each successive night an additional candle is added. On the last night all eight candles are lit. The candle in the center of the menorah, in a less conventional design, is called the "shammas" or helper candle. It is lit first and is used to light the other candles. On the left is the second traditional food, Latkes, potato pancakes. These were thin, crispy, delicious and worth every calorie.
It's been a lovely time of celebration -- friends, food, prayer and the traditional songs of Chanukah.
So grateful for this festival that is a celebration of light.
As ever, thanks for visiting and wishing you joy, light and miracles.
