Hanukah Celebration- Air Fryer Latke Recipe

          🎵Oh Hanukah oh Hanukah come light the menorah ! 🎵

                      

Tonight is the first night of an 8 day celebration for the Jewish holiday Chanukah/Hanukah. Did you ever wonder why Hanukkah falls on different dates each year? 

It’s because Jewish holidays follow the ancient over 5000 year old Hebrew lunar calendar dating back to biblical days. Therefore, Jewish holiday dates shift each year on our regular solar Gregorian calendar that is now used. (Actually Hindu/Sikh, Islam, and Chinese follow a lunar cycles too for their holidays so their holidays fall on a different solar calendar day each year too)

Hanukkah is celebrated to commemorate a key moment in Jewish history: the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem more than 2,000 years ago.

The History of Hanukkah

In the 2nd century BC, the Jewish people, led by the courageous Maccabees, revolted against the Syrian-Greek rulers who had invaded and banned Jewish religious practices and desecrated the Jewish holy Jewish Temple. 

After the Jewish fought back and attained a victory against this oppression, the holy Temple was reclaimed and purified. According to tradition, when they went to light the Temple’s menorah, they found only a small amount of pure oil—enough for just one day. Miraculously, that little bit of oil didn't go out after one day, it burned and shed light for eight full days. 

Because of this, Hanukkah—also called the Festival of Lights—is celebrated for eight nights, with candles lit each evening. This tradition honors religious freedom, perseverance, and the idea that even a small light can push back a great deal of darkness.

 Meaningful Traditions and Symbolic Objects of Hanukkah 

The Hanukkiah (Hanukkah Menorah)

A nine-branched candle holder, called a hanukkiah or menorah, is lit over the eight nights of Hanukkah. One candle is added each evening and lit with the tallest candle called shamash, or helper candle. The growing light represents hope, resilience, and the miracle that took place on Hanukkah. It is customary to place the menorah in a window to share the story of Hanukkah publicly. Some families also display an electric Hanukkiah/Menorah. 

Oil and Traditional Hanukkah Foods
Because oil is central to the Hanukkah story, it is customary to eat foods fried in oil during the holiday. Popular Hanukkah foods include potato latkes (pancakes) and jelly-filled donuts known in Hebrew as sufganiyot. 

Since I don't eat fried foods, I came up with an air-fryer version for crispy air-fryer vegan potato latkes . 

The Dreidel

A dreidel is a four-sided spinning top with Hebrew letters on it—Nun, Gimel, Hey, and Shin—which stand for “Nes Gadol Haya Sham,” meaning “A great miracle happened there.” Playing dreidel is a traditional Hanukkah game, especially enjoyed by children. Children often play with Chanukah gelt.

Hanukkah Gelt
Gelt, often chocolate coins or small amounts of money, is given to children during Hanukkah. It symbolizes reward, generosity, and remembrance of Jewish history. It is often used to play dreidel. When I was young (60 years ago), we used nuts with shells to play. People didn't eat as much candy. 

Blessings and Hanukkah Songs
Each night, families recite blessings before lighting the candles, followed by traditional Hanukkah songs that celebrate joy, gratitude, and the miracle of light.

Together, these Hanukkah traditions and symbolic objects help us remember the story of the holiday and reinforce its timeless message: even a small light can overcome darkness.

Like Christmas, in modern times, it has become customary to exchange gifts during Chanukah.

I live in South Florida where there is a substantial Jewish population. Many of the local parks and beaches will be having festivals tonight and candle lightings (with light bulbs) on giant outdoor menorahs. 

In our condo building with over 600 units about 30% is of the Jewish faith. Since many of us are snowbirds and not near our families, we will celebrate with neighbors - first we will have an outdoor pot-luck get together near the pool area, and then when it gets dark, a candle lighting ceremony (electric bulbs) in our condo lobby. We will say the blessings and sing Hanukah songs. Of course there is also a large Christmas tree in the lobby and we will have other activities for Christmas as we get closer to Christmas. 

Some Added Thoughts: 

The neighbors in our condo have gotten together in previous years to celebrate Hanukkah and it always amazes me because we have a very diverse group of people in South Florida. They come from countries such as Venezuela, Columbia, Cuba, Russia, Ukraine, Morocco, Syria, Egypt, Paris, Mexico etc) Some barely speak English, yet, the Jewish people all know the same Hebrew prayers for the candle lighting and many of us know and sing the same songs for the holiday. It is quite amazing and very fun and unifying. 

A popular song in English ; This song is translated from Yiddish and it is also translated into Hebrew.

Translated from an originally Yiddish song from Europe called, OY Chanukah!

Part of the Hanukkah decoration in a nearby park in Sunny Isles, Florida

Chanukah this year is December 14- Dec 22, 2025

Japanese Inspired Kabocha Miso Soup -Rich, Creamy, Comforting

Tis the season for winter squashes! Meet "kabocha squash" also known as Japanese pumpkin. Have ever tried it? 

While most people are familiar with butternut squash, acorn squash, spaghetti squash, or orange pumpkin, one variety that is more unusual is kabocha squash—a sweet, flavorful squash that’s perfect winter cooking .

What Is Kabocha Squash?

If you’ve never tried kabocha squash, imagine the sweetest, creamiest squash you’ve ever tasted—then make it even better. Kabocha has a deep orange interior and a soft, almost chestnut-like flavor that shines whether you roast it, mash it, or slip it into soups. 

Also known as Japanese pumpkin, kabocha squash has a dark green, exterior and rich orange flesh. Its naturally sweet, nutty flavor and velvety texture make it ideal for soups, roasting, or mashing. You can find it at most grocery stores throughout the winter and farm stands in the fall, including places such as Whole Foods Market and local produce markets.

Why You’ll Love the flavors in this Roasted Kabocha Miso Soup

Personally, I love the rich sweet flavor of roasted kabocha squash all by itself as a side dish. However,  I also enjoy it blended into a warm, creamy soup and flavored with miso, rice vinegar, and tamari. But WAIT!! 

This soup can be prepared 2 different ways!

1. Japanese flavors: You could eat the soup with the miso, rice vinegar and tamari flavorings which are not added until you serve it in each bowl. The soup will be Asian flavored and tangy.

2. Plain and soothing:  Serve it without the miso, tamari, and rice vinegar and this soup will be mild, cozy, and soothing.  

Either way, this soup is completely plant-based, rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants, and potassium.

It's cold outside, maybe even snowy, or icy.  

Turn on the oven, roast the squash, and warm up the house. Then follow the direction to make a warm and cozy piping hot bowl of winter squash soup. 

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🥣 Roasted Kabocha Miso Soup (Vegan)

Serves: 4 | Prep time : 15 min | Cook time: 40 min

🧄 Ingredients

• 1 medium kabocha squash (about 2 ½–3 lbs), seeds removed and sliced into sixths.

• 1 medium onion, chopped

  1 large white russet potato, peeled and chopped

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger

• 4 cups vegetable broth or water (your choice) 

  The following ingredients (seasonings) get added to each bowl before serving.  

• 1–2 tbsp white or yellow miso paste (to taste)

• 1 tbsp tamari or gluten-free soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 

• Optional: ½ cup coconut milk for extra creaminess

• Garnish: scallions, roasted squash, toasted sesame seeds, or chili oil.

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🔥 Directions

1. Roast the squash:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Cut kabocha into 4-6 large wedges (wash well, but no need to peel—the skin softens beautifully).

   • Roast on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized on the edges. (spray with oil spray if desired)                 

2. Sauté vegetables:

   • In a large pot, heat 1/4 cup of water

   • Add onion and saute, stirring for 5 minutes until soft.

   • Stir in garlic and ginger, cook 1 minute more.

3. Simmer:

   • Add roasted squash, chopped uncooked potato and vegetable broth or water.

   • Bring to a simmer for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are soft.

4. Blend:

   • Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth. 

5. Add miso, tamari, and rice vingar mixture only to the individual bowls when serving:

   • In a small bowl, whisk miso paste with a ladle of warm soup to dissolve it, tamari, and rice vinegar. 

   • Add 1 tablespoon of miso mixture to each bowl before serving.

   • Stir in coconut milk if desired.

6. Taste & adjust seasoning:

   • Add more miso or broth as needed for saltiness and consistency. Do not heat the miso- it destroys all the benefits. 

7. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup and miso mixture into bowls and top with scallions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil.

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🌿 Tips & Variations

• Add a handful of spinach or bok choy before serving for extra greens..

• Swap kabocha for butternut if needed — roasting brings out the same sweetness.. 

  Don't have miso and don't want to buy it?  Leave out the miso, tamari, and vinegar. The soup will taste different but good.

  
  
  

  What is  Miso ?: 

  Miso can be found in the refrigerated cases in Whole Foods Markets or Asian markets. Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans, sea salt, and a starter culture called koji, often mixed with grains like rice or barley. (For gluten-free be sure to read labels and get one that is made with rice or a container labeled gluten-free) 

  This slow fermentation process—ranging from a few months to several years—creates a nutrient-rich paste with a deep, savory umami flavor. 

  Keep miso refrigerated and use in soups, marinades, dressings, and sauces. Because it is a fermented food, miso contains beneficial probiotics that can support gut health and digestion. It’s also rich in essential minerals, B vitamins, and antioxidants

  

Kabocha squash soup with or without  the miso mixture is a great choice for anyone looking for low-calorie, nutrient-dense, plant-based meals that may support immune health, eye health, and glowing skin.

Early Morning Ocean Walk - South Florida

The ocean walk is located directly across the street from my condo. The walk itself is beautiful, filled with small surprises every day. I frequently spot all kinds of birds, iguanas, insects, squirrels, and other little creatures that bring the path alive. 

Cabbage Carrot Broth: Simple, Soothing, Delicious

Sometimes you are just in the mood for something simple, light, and soothing. This nourishing easy cabbage carrot broth will hit the spot, especially if you add some cooked rice or (gf) noodles to the pot.

It comes together quickly and has a clean, broth-like feel rich in veggies. Nothing fancy—just an easy, wholesome soup that tastes good and feels good.

There’s something almost magical about the way cabbage  and carrots transform a simple pot of broth. I find that they bring a gentle sweetness and depth that makes any soup instantly comforting—

The Backstory: ( Got the backstory idea from Jeff the Chef)

The other night, I didn't have much time to make dinner, but I still wanted a warm bowl of light soup- something flavorful but not overly heavy.

As I stood in the kitchen, I remembered how my own mother used to make a simple traditional broth and add rice or noodles to it.

 I didn't have her exact recipe —just the memory of how much I loved it -  that was enough to inspire me to create my own. I improvised with what I had on hand, and the result was everything I was craving: light, soothing, and full of flavor. In fact, my husband couldn't get enough of it.

Simple broths like this one are perfect for chilly evenings or days when you want something warm, quick, and nourishing. 

Enjoy it as a light detox-style soup, or turn it into a complete meal by adding cooked rice or (rice) noodles at the end.

Why Is Cabbage Carrot Broth A Healthy Choice? 

Cabbage broth is a quiet nutritional powerhouse. Cabbage supplies vitamins C and K along with antioxidants that may support immunity and help reduce inflammation. The combination of cabbage and carrots adds gut-friendly fiber that’s gentle on digestion. The broth is naturally low-calorie yet satisfying, making it perfect for light or “reset” meals. Chickpeas contribute plant-based protein, minerals, and steady energy, and the turmeric—especially when combined with black pepper- may add an extra anti-inflammatory boost.

This broth is vegan, gluten-free, and delicious. I set it to pressure cook in the Instant Pot for only 5 minutes. It took about 30 minutes from prep to finish. 

Can you make it on the stove top? - of course, but it will just take a little longer and may need additional liquid. I make it both ways.

Ingredients to make the soup

• 4 cups chopped cabbage

• 4 medium organic carrots, sliced

• 1/2 cup chopped organic curly parsley

• 1 small organic onion, chopped

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/2 cup chopped scallion

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• Cracked pepper

• Water or vegetable broth to cover the vegetables plus 3 extra cups water

• Optional: cooked rice or rice noodles

• Optional: fresh lime juice for serving

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Instant Pot Directions

1. Add all ingredients (except rice/noodles and lime) to the Instant Pot.

2. Set to Pressure Cook for 5 minutes.

3. When done, carefully release steam according to manufacturer instructions.

4. Once pressure is fully released, remove the lid and stir in cooked optional rice or rice noodles if desired.

5. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.

6. Ladle into bowls and finish with a squeeze of lime juice.

Makes about 6 bowls.

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My Notes: 

It's difficult to predict how much seasoning you will need. It will depend on how sweet your carrots are and how rich tasting a cabbage you have. You may need to add some bouillon flavoring if its too bland.