Our Hanukkah Celebration Music, Symbolic Foods and Art

Traditional Hanukkah Foods

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish festival celebrated with various traditional foods. While not all these foods have explicit symbolic meanings, some are tied to the holiday's themes of oil, victory, and the miracle of the Temple. Here are traditional Hanukkah foods and their connections:

1. Potato Latkes

These fried potato pancakes are the best-known Hanukkah food. The oil used to fry them commemorates the oil in the temple lamps. Made of shredded potatoes and onions, like hash browns, they are traditionally topped with applesauce and served as a side dish.

2. Kugel

Kugel is a sweet casserole from Central Europe. It consists of egg noodles baked with sugar, eggs, and sour cream. Raisins and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg can be added. This rich dessert tops many people’s favorite Hanukkah foods and provides the flavor of many beloved holiday memories.

3. Brisket

A slow-cooked beef dish that is a hearty and flavorful centerpiece for Hanukkah meals.

4. Rugelach

Rolled pastries with sweet ingredients like dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate represent the holiday's sweetness.

5. Sufganiyot

Jelly-filled donuts topped with powdered sugar. They are fried and commemorate the importance of oil in the Hanukkah celebration. The filling can be flavored in several ways; though fruit jelly is standard, sweet custard can be substituted if preferred.

6. Matzo Ball Soup

A traditional Jewish soup featuring matzo balls, symbolizing comfort and sustenance.

7. Applesauce

Often served as an accompaniment to latkes, providing a sweet contrast to the savory pancakes.

8. Gelt (Chocolate Coins)

In the dreidel game, the gelt symbolizes the coins distributed to children during Hanukkah.

In 17 century Europe, it became customary for parents to donate small sums of money to their children to their teachers. The students learned how to give charity in light of commemorating the events of Hanukkah. In the 20th century, an American confectionary manufacturer came up with the idea of making Hanukkah “Gelt” from chocolate. They made the first chocolate-wrapped coins specifically for Hanukkah. The Hanukkah gelt symbolizes the tradition of giving charity to commemorate the Miracle of Light. 

9. Cheese Platter

Judith, a Jewish heroine associated with Hanukkah, fed cheese to an Assyrian general, making him thirsty for wine, which she gave him until he fell asleep.

Our Favorite Hanukkah Songs

Yes We Can

Telly from Sesame Street shows 
us how to play the Dreidel Game.

December 14, National Bouillabaisse Day, A Traditional Fish Stew

Bouillabaisse is a traditional fish stew originating in Provence. Commonly used vegetables include leeks, onions, tomatoes, celery and potatoes. The vegetables are simmered together with the broth and served with the fish. What makes a bouillabaisse different from other fish soups is the selection of herbs and spices in the broth and the way the fish are added one at a time, in a certain order, and brought to a boil.

Bouillabaisse

Serves 6 (about 3 cups each)

Ingredients
8 cups water
3 (1 1/4-pound) whole lobsters
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups chopped onion
2 cups coarsely chopped celery
1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped carrot
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups coarsely chopped tomato (about 1 1/2 pounds)
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, crushed
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 bay leaves
1-pound skinned halibut fillets cut into 2-inch pieces
22 small clams, scrubbed
30 small mussels, scrubbed and debearded
1/2 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions
1. Using an 8-quart stockpot, bring water to a boil.
2. Plunge lobsters headfirst into the water. Return to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 12 minutes.
3. Remove lobsters from water (do not drain); cool. Remove meat from cooked lobster tails and claws; cut into 1-inch pieces, reserving shells.
4. Cover and refrigerate lobster meat.
5. Return reserved shells to water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes. Drain through a colander over a large bowl, reserving broth; discard shells. Wipe pan dry with a paper towel.
6. Heat oil in pan over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic; sauté 5 minutes.
7. Add reserved broth, tomato, saffron, thyme, pepper, and bay leaves; bring to a boil. 

8. Reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Discard bay leaves.
9. Bring to a boil; add halibut, reduce heat, and simmer 4 minutes. 

10. Add clams; cook 1 minute. 

11. Add mussels; cook 2 minutes. 

12. Add shrimp; cook 3 minutes. Bring to a boil. 

13. Add reserved lobster meat; cook until thoroughly heated. 

14. Discard unopened shells.

Nutritional Information

Ensure accurate nutritional analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 25 years experience. A great service for Recipe Bloggers, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will benefit from the Nutrition information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Dietitians-Online.com; Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, FAND at recipenews@gmail.com

Sip, Savor, Celebrate Hot Cocoa!

Taste pure coziness with a cup of steaming hot cocoa.

Save Calories and fat using Skim (non-fat) Milk 

instead of Whole Milk. You still receive the

benefits of calcium and vitamin D.

Skim /NonFat Milk

90 Calories

0 g Fat;

250 mg Calcium

124 IU / 3.2 mcg Vitamin D

Whole Milk

149 Calories

8 g Fat;

276 mg Calcium
124 IU / 3.2 mcg Vitamin D

The Difference Between Hot Cocoa and Hot Chocolate

Hot cocoa and hot chocolate differ in the type of chocolate used, consistency, and taste.

Hot cocoa
Made from cocoa powder, powdered milk, sweetener, and water or milk. Hot cocoa is thinner and sweeter than hot chocolate.

Hot chocolate
Made from grated chocolate, milk, cream, or water. Hot chocolate is thicker and creamier than hot cocoa.

The Polar Express, "Hot Chocolate Song" 

The Edible Hanukkah Menorah

The Hanukkah, also known as the Hanukkah “menorah,” is a candelabra designated specifically for the Hanukkah candles. The Hanukkah lamp contains room for nine candles — one for each night, plus the shammash or helper candle.

Menorah is the Hebrew word for a lamp. Lighting the candles is Hanukkah’s most central ritual. One candle is added on each night of the eight-night holiday until it is ablaze with light on the eighth evening.

Hanukkah menorahs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The eight candles should be the same height and at the same level, but the shammash is often placed higher or set off to the side.

Fruit and Vegetable Menorah

A fun project and a healthy snack for all. 
I used the following ingredients (but you can use your favorite fruits and vegetables):
1/2 cucumber
1/2 yellow squash, diced
1/2 zucchini diced
4 red seedless grapes
1/2 cup watermelon, diced
1/4 cup raspberries

1/4 cup cantaloupe, cubed
1/4 cup blueberries
4 strawberries, chopped
9 golden raisins

The Gingerbread House Building Sweet Memories

The holiday season is filled with traditions, and one of my favorites has always been building gingerbread houses. It’s a joyful activity that combines creativity, delicious treats, and the warmth of family. Over the years, Jake and I have shared many fun moments creating these edible works of art, each unique and filled with love.

The History of Gingerbread Houses

Gingerbread houses have a long and fascinating history that dates back to 16th-century Germany. Initially crafted into intricate shapes and decorations, gingerbread gained popularity at fairs and festivals. By the 19th century, the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale Hansel and Gretel had imbued gingerbread houses with a magical association, turning them into a beloved holiday tradition.

Our Gingerbread Houses Through the Years

1. The Sweet and Healthy Gingerbread House
One year, Jake and I decided to give our gingerbread a healthy twist. We decorated it with peanut butter, raspberries, blueberries, dried apricots, and yogurt-covered raisins. It was colorful, delicious, and perfectly snackable—we made sure it was okay to nibble on the decorations as we worked!

2. The Hanukkah Gingerbread House

In another year, we created a Hanukkah-themed gingerbread house. Adorned with blue and white decorations, it blended the joy of gingerbread houses with the traditions of Hanukkah, making it a beautiful way to celebrate the season.

Tips for Creating Your Gingerbread House

1. Start Clean and Fresh
Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly and ensure all fresh fruits and vegetables are cleaned. Keep perishable items in the refrigerator until it’s time to use them.

2. Let Your Creativity Shine
There’s no right or wrong way to build a gingerbread house. Experiment with candies, fruits, nuts, or savory elements to make it your own. The fun is in the process!

3. Enjoy the Journey
Building gingerbread houses isn’t just about the final result—it’s about spending time together, laughing, and creating memories that last long after the holiday season.

Why Gingerbread Houses Are Special

Gingerbread houses are more than just holiday decorations. They’re a way to connect with loved ones, honor traditions, and express creativity. Every house we’ve made has a story, a memory, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

If you’re inspired to build your own gingerbread house this year, I encourage you to dive in, have fun, and savor every moment. After all, it’s not just about the house—it’s about the memories you build along the way.

Happy Holidays! 

#GingerbreadHouses
#HolidayTraditions
#BuildingSweetMemories

Healthy Christmas and Seasonal Snacks Kids Will Love

Looking for fun, festive snacks that feel special without relying on loads of sugar? These simple Christmas snack ideas are cute, nutritious, and easy enough for toddlers, preschoolers, or big kids to help make. Perfect for school parties, family gatherings, or cozy afternoons at home!

🎄 1. Banana Snowmen

Layer banana slices, strawberries, and grapes on a skewer. Add mini chocolate chips and a tiny carrot nose for a cute, vitamin-rich holiday treat.

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🎄 2. Pita Christmas Trees

Spread mashed avocado on pita triangles and decorate with colorful veggies. Add a pretzel trunk and a cheese star for a fun, fiber-filled snack.

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🎄 3. Apple Christmas Sandwiches

Use mini cookie cutters to press festive shapes out of apple slices. Fill with peanut or almond butter for a nutritious, crunchy “cookie.”

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🎄 4. Kiwi Wreaths

Slice a kiwi into circles and add a strawberry “bow.” Simple, adorable, and packed with vitamin C.

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🎄 5. Holiday Toast

Cut whole-grain toast into shapes and top with cream cheese, nut butter, or avocado. Decorate with fruit, veggies, coconut, or chocolate chips.

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🎄 6. Celery Reindeers

Fill celery sticks with nut butter, add pretzel antlers, candy eyes, and a raspberry nose. A crunchy, fiber-rich Rudolph!

🎄 7. Frosty Yogurt Cups

Draw snowman faces on clear cups, fill with yogurt or cottage cheese, and top with fruit. A festive snack with probiotics and protein.

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🎄 8. Penguin Crackers

Spread cream cheese on whole-grain crackers. Add olive “wings,” carrot feet and nose, and peppercorn eyes for the cutest savory bite.

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🎄 9. Grinch Fruit Kabobs

Stack a grape, a banana slice, a strawberry, and a mini marshmallow on a toothpick. A colorful, easy treat kids love assembling.

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🎄 10. Christmas Tree Fruit Platter

Arrange raspberries or kiwi slices in a tree shape. Add pretzel “trunks” and a cheese star for a beautiful holiday centerpiece.

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🎄 11. Christmas Pancakes

Use fruit, pretzels, yogurt, and nut butter to decorate pancakes like snowmen, reindeer, or Christmas trees.

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🎄 12. Watermelon Christmas Trees

Cut watermelon into triangles and decorate with a yogurt drizzle or coconut sprinkles.

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🎄 13. Christmas Fruit Wreath

Arrange kiwi, strawberries, and pomegranate into a wreath shape. Light, bright, and naturally sweet!

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🎄 14. Cucumber Christmas Tree Sandwiches

Spread cream cheese on bread and layer cucumber slices like tree branches. Add a carrot star for the perfect veggie snack.

Reference

1. Healthy Christmas and Seasonal Snacks Kids Will Love. @ElysiaRD https://www.hauteandhealthyliving.com/8-healthy-christmas-snacks-for-kids/

December 10, Human Rights Day Providing Nourishment is a Human Right

Human Rights Day presents an opportunity every year to celebrate human rights, highlight a specific issue, and advocate for the full enjoyment of all human rights by everyone everywhere.

"It is absolutely clear that we need to regain the universality of human rights, the indivisibility of human rights, and we need to find a new energy that motivates young people around the world." - Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

2022 Theme: 

Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All

In the decades since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, human rights have become more recognized and more guaranteed across the globe. It has since served as the foundation for an expanding system of human rights protection that today also focuses on vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and migrants.

However, the promise of the UDHR, of dignity and equality in rights, has been under a sustained assault in recent years. As the world faces new challenges and ongoing – pandemics, conflicts, exploding inequalities, morally bankrupt global financial system, racism, climate change – the values and rights enshrined in the UDHR provide guideposts for our collective actions that do not leave anyone behind.

The year-long campaign seeks to shift the needle of understanding and action toward greater knowledge of the universality of the UDHR and the activism associated with it.

Imagine - Human Rights

Universal Declaration of 

Human Rights, Article 25 

(1) Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and his family, including food, clothing, housing, medical care, and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control. 

(2) Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.

  

Lard: The Old-Fashioned Fat Making a Modern Comeback

For generations, lard was a staple in home kitchens. Grandmothers used it to make the flakiest pie crusts, the crispiest fried chicken, and the most tender tamales. Then, somewhere along the way, lard developed a reputation as one of the “unhealthy” fats—pushed aside in favor of margarine and vegetable shortening.

But today, cooks and nutrition experts alike are giving lard a second look. And as it turns out, this traditional fat is far more interesting—and far less scary—than its reputation suggests.

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What Exactly Is Lard?

If you’ve ever saved bacon grease in a jar, you’ve already worked with lard.

Lard is simply rendered pork fat that’s been gently melted, strained, and cooled into a smooth, white fat. It has:

• A high smoke point (great for frying)

• A clean, subtle flavor

• A silky texture that creates unbelievably flaky baked goods

In Latin American cuisine, lard is essential for tamales, refried beans, and empanadas. In Southern cooking, it’s the secret behind buttery biscuits and perfect pie crusts.

And yes—some people even spread it on toast (it’s more common than you might think!).

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Is Lard Healthy or Unhealthy?

Lard is pure fat—but that isn’t automatically a bad thing. Your body needs fat for:

• Energy

• Hormone production

• Brain health

• Absorbing vitamins A, D, E, and K

• Slowing digestion to prevent blood sugar crashes

The real story lies in the types of fat it contains.

Here’s the breakdown for 1 tablespoon of lard:

• 5 g saturated fat

• 5.8 g monounsaturated fat

• 1.4 g polyunsaturated fat

Compare that to butter:

• 7.2 g saturated fat

• 3 g monounsaturated fat

• 0.4 g polyunsaturated fat

Surprise: Lard has less saturated fat than butter and more heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.

It also contains naturally occurring vitamin D, something hard to find in foods.

So...is lard healthy?

It depends on what you’re comparing it to.

• Healthier than: vegetable shortening, margarine, and many processed solid fats

• Similar to: some animal fats

• Not as healthy as: olive oil or avocado oil

The key is moderation and context—no single fat will make or break your diet.

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Why Lard Fell Out of Favor

In the mid-20th century, saturated fat became public enemy #1, and lard took the hit. But the “healthier” replacements—especially partially hydrogenated oils—turned out to be loaded with trans fats, which are significantly more harmful.

Ironically, in trying to avoid lard, many people ended up using far less healthy alternatives.

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Fresh vs. Shelf-Stable Lard: What’s the Difference?

Not all lard is created equal.

1. Fresh or refrigerated lard

• Made from pure rendered pork fat

• No added hydrogenated oils

• Best texture and flavor

• No artificial trans fats

2. Shelf-stable lard

• Often has hydrogenated fat added for stability

• May contain small amounts of trans fats

• Lasts longer but is less nutritious

Verdict: Choose fresh lard whenever possible.
Look for it at Hispanic markets, butcher shops, or the refrigerated section of your grocery store.

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When Lard Is the Better Choice

There are some dishes where olive oil simply won’t cut it. Lard excels when you need:

• Flaky pastries (pies, biscuits)

• Moist tamales

• Crispy fried foods

• Authentic Latin dishes

• A clean, neutral flavor

And in many cases, choosing lard is healthier than opting for vegetable shortening, which is highly processed and may contain trans fats.

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Can You Render Your Own Lard?

Absolutely! If you buy pork back fat from a butcher, you can make your own clean, additive-free lard at home:

1. Chop fat into small pieces

2. Heat gently in a pot until it melts

3. Strain through cheesecloth

4. Cool until solid and creamy

Homemade lard stays fresh in the refrigerator for months or frozen for a year.

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So, Should You Use Lard?

Like most traditional foods, lard is neither a miracle ingredient nor a villain. It’s:

• A natural fat

• A source of vitamin D

• A mix of saturated and unsaturated fats

• Lower in saturated fat than butter

• Healthier than shortening

• Perfect for certain culinary techniques

In moderation—and within a balanced diet—lard absolutely has a place in the modern kitchen.

Key Takeaways

Lard

• Less saturated fat than butter

• No trans fats when fresh

• Natural source of vitamin D

• Great for flaky pastries and high-heat cooking

• Should still be used in moderation

Butter

• Highest in saturated fat and cholesterol

• Distinct flavor for baking

• Not ideal for high-heat frying

Olive Oil

• Highest in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat

• Best overall choice for everyday cooking

• Not suitable for recipes needing solid fat texture (pie crusts, tamales)

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Bottom Line

Lard is a misunderstood ingredient with deep cultural roots and culinary value. It’s an excellent choice for specific recipes and often a more natural, less processed alternative to commercial shortenings. Used wisely, it can be part of a healthy, delicious cooking routine.

References.

• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), FoodData Central. Nutrient profile for lard, butter, and olive oil. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov

• American Heart Association. Dietary Fats and Cardiovascular Disease Guidance.

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The Truth About Fats: Saturated, Unsaturated, and Trans Fats. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu

• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Trans Fat Regulations and Food Labeling Requirements.

• American Culinary Federation. Traditional Applications of Lard in Regional and Cultural Cuisine.

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Evidence Analysis Library: Dietary Fats and Health Outcomes.

My Sunflower's Journey

My First Sunflower

This year, my garden witnessed a little miracle—my very first sunflower bloomed. 

For years, I had tried and failed to grow sunflowers. Each season brought hope, effort, and no sunflower -  but I never gave up. My persistence was rewarded this year with a flower that feels nothing short of magical.

The sunflower stands tall and proud in my garden, its delicate yellow petals radiating against the sun. At its center lies the intricate disc florets—a stunning spiral of tiny flowers holding male and female reproductive organs. These florets will mature into seeds and fruit, completing the sunflower’s life cycle.

One of the most captivating moments was watching the bees dance around the sunflower, drawn to its abundant pollen and nectar. These hardworking pollinators are vital in transferring pollen from one flower to another to ensure the sunflower produces seeds. The synergy between the sunflower and the bees is a beautiful reminder of nature’s interconnectedness and harmony.

This sunflower is more than just a plant; it symbolizes resilience and hope. It taught me that the most extraordinary beauty sometimes comes from the patience to keep trying, even when success feels out of reach.

Every time I look at its vibrant petals and elegant grace, I’m reminded of the magic that perseverance can bring. 

If you’ve ever doubted your ability to grow or achieve something, let this sunflower be your reminder: don’t give up. The bloom is worth the wait.

National Handwashing Awareness Month Resources

A Guide to Handwashing

Will Sawyer, MD, is a Family Physician and the creator of the Henry the Hand Foundation and Henry the Hand Champion Handwasher.

Goal: To improve health by making us more aware of our hands' role in spreading disease.

Mission: To propagate Henry the Hand's 4 Principles of Hand Awareness throughout the United States and the world!
1. WASH your hands when they are dirty and BEFORE eating.
2. DO NOT cough into your hands.
3. DO NOT sneeze into your hands.
4. Above all, DO NOT put your fingers into your eyes, nose, or mouth!

Henry the Hand Champion
Handwashing School Visit

Dr. Will has created a wonderful website for children and educators. The site contains posters, coloring books, school programs, tips on Food Safety, and a lot more. Visit Henry the Handwashing Champion.

Why Handwashing with Soap?

Handwashing with soap is the most effective and inexpensive way to prevent diarrheal and acute respiratory infections, which take the lives of millions of children in developing countries every year. Together, they are responsible for the majority of all child deaths. Yet, despite its lifesaving potential, handwashing with soap is seldom practiced and difficult to promote.

Turning handwashing with soap before eating and after using the toilet into a habit could save more lives than any single vaccine or medical intervention, cutting deaths from diarrhea by almost half and deaths from acute respiratory infections by one-quarter. A vast change in handwashing behavior is critical to meeting the Millennium Development Goal of reducing deaths among children under five by two-thirds by 2015.

Global Handwashing Day focuses on children because they suffer the most from diarrheal and respiratory diseases and deaths. Still, research shows that children can also be powerful agents for changing behaviors like handwashing with soap in their communities.

When should you wash your hands?
·         Before, during, and after preparing food
·         Before eating food
·         Before and after caring for someone who is sick
·         Before and after treating a cut or wound
·         After using the toilet
·         After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has               used the toilet
·         After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
·         After touching an animal or animal waste
·         After touching garbage

It's In Your Hands

Resources and References

1. CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives

2. Global Handwashing Day

3. Partnership for Food Safety Education, Fight BAC!

4. The Scrub Club is a fun, interactive, and educational Website that teaches children how to wash their hands properly. The site contains interactive games, academic music, downloadable activities for kids, educational materials for teachers, and program information for parents.

5. Healthy Schools, Healthy People is a joint initiative between the American Cleaning Institute (ACI) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dedicated to supporting school systems nationwide with tools to help reinforce hand hygiene and cleaning practices to prevent the spread of infectious disease and reduce related absenteeism.

   

updated 12/9/2024

December 6, National Gazpacho Day Gazpacho with Feta Cheese and Tabouli Salad

Gazpacho with Feta Cheese and Tabouli Salad

Serves 8

Ingredients 
2-1/2 cups peeled and diced (1/4 inch) hothouse cucumber 
2-1/2 cups diced red and green bell pepper 
2-1/2 cups diced ripe tomato 
1/2 cup diced red and white onion 
2 cups tomato juice, low sodium 
1/4 cup red-wine vinegar 
2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 
1 dash Tabasco sauce
Garnish
4 Tbsp Feta Cheese
1/2 cup Tabouli Salad
 
Directions 
1. Place all of the vegetables in a large bowl. Add the tomato juice, vinegar, oil, and Tabasco. Toss.
2. Transfer half of the mixture to a blender or food processor and pulse on and off until coarsely puree. 

3. Return puree mixture to the bowl and stir to combine. Refrigerate for 5 to 6 hours before serving.
4. Combine Feta cheese and Tabouli Salad.
5. Top Gazpacho with 1-1/2 Tablespoon of Feta Cheese and Tabouli Salad

Nutrition Information

Ensure accurate nutritional analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 25 years experience. A great service for the Recipe Blogger, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will benefit from the Nutrition information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Dietitians-Online.com; Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, LN at recipenews@gmail.com