Hanukkah, the Jewish festival of lights, takes place over eight days and eight nights. The winter holiday, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple.
In the second century, Seleucids ruled Israel. The rulers attempted to force the Jewish people to accept other religious beliefs, killing many who attempted to fight back to maintain their traditions. Jewish Veg explains that a group of poorly-armed Jewish people, led by Judah the Maccabee, fought back and against all odds, defeated the Seleucid army.
When they reclaimed the Holy Temple of Jerusalem and attempted to rededicate the temple by lighting the Menorah, they only found enough olive oil to last one day. But, by a miracle, the oil lasted for eight days.
7 Simple Steps for the Ultimate Vegan Hanukkah Celebration
Many Hanukkah dishes are not vegan, but it’s easy to make traditional food without using any animal products. Here are seven vegan recipes to try during the festival of lights.
1. Vegan Matzo Ball Soup
Making matzo balls without eggs is easy. This ultra-comforting recipe uses quinoa flakes as a binder and they’re baked in the oven to prevent them from falling apart. It’s also packed with celery, potatoes, carrots, and fresh dill.
Get the recipe here.
2. Vegan Challah
Packed with fruit and nuts, you’ll want this vegan challah on your dessert table. This fluffy, braided bread is traditionally enriched with eggs. But, this recipe uses dairy-free yogurt with a thick texture instead. Save the leftovers to make vegan French toast.
Get the recipe here.
3. Vegan Sufganiyot
Nothing beats homemade donuts. These Hanukkah sufganiyot are classic yeast donuts made without eggs or dairy. They have a light, fluffy texture, are filled with delicious jam, and are topped off with orange zest.
Get the recipe here.
4. Vegan Brisket
Brisket is part of the Hanukkah tradition, and it’s easy to make it vegan. This plant-based brisket is made from a blend of chickpeas and seitan, so you’ll need a food processor or powerful blender to get the job done. It’s tender, juicy, and perfectly spiced.
Get the recipe here.
5. Vegan Latkes
Made from potatoes and sweet potatoes, these vegan latkes are crispy and easy to make. Instead of eggs, they use potato starch and chickpea flour. Serve with fresh dill and dairy-free sour cream.
Get the recipe here.
6. Vegan Gelt
It’s not Hanukkah without gelt. Vermont-based brand Lake Champlain Chocolates makes Organic Dark Chocolate Gelt. Not only is it vegan, but it’s also made from fair-trade chocolate.
7. Vegan Kugel
Looking for a vegan kugel recipe? You’ve come to the right place. This egg-free potato and carrot kugel is crispy on top, just the way it should be.
Get the recipe here.
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