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. 

In My Kitchen December 2025- Florida

Yikes. It's December already? Where is the time going? 

I'll be joining Sherry at Sherry's Picking and other bloggers for her IN MY KITCHEN  share... where anyone can join in.

Here's some of what's been happening in my kitchen this past month. 

Tofu Entree With Mushroom and Onion Gravy- Part of A Plant-based Thanksgiving Meal 2025

Wondering what I ate for a plant-based and gluten-free holiday entrée? This amazing tofu with mushroom gravy to start off a full plant-based holiday menu that even non-vegans loved.

A few people asked what I was planning to serve as my vegan Thanksgiving entrée this year. After thinking it over, I settled on tofu smothered in a rich flavorful onion-and-mushroom gravy. We ate it over warm rice, and the whole thing turned into one of those dishes that seems humble at first but somehow becomes the star of the plate—simple, satisfying, and surprisingly good. Paired with the butternut squash and fresh cranberry casserole, the dishes carried all the flavors of Thanksgiving.

I’ll admit, I took a shortcut with the mushroom gravy and grabbed a vegan, gluten-free mushroom gravy from Whole Foods. It turned out to be painfully bland, so I rescued it with freshly grated ginger, tamari, generous amounts of rice vinegar, and a little sugar. Honestly, I should’ve just made my own gravy with potato starch to begin with.

We spent the holiday with three other couples—none of them vegetarian—and yet not a single spoonful of the butternut squash casserole survived. Half the mushroom tofu disappeared too, even though there was plenty of turkey and other sides at the celebration at my friend's home.

People often ask what vegans actually eat for Thanksgiving, so I'm sharing a sample menu that I would serve if I were the host. 

Everything is vegan and gluten-free.

My entree is a mushroom and onion gravy with cubes of tofu over rice. 

Tofu mushrooms and onion over rice in a casserole

Ingredients:

1 large onion, peeled and sliced into 1/2 moons

2 containers of fresh white or portobello mushrooms, washed and sliced

1 block of organic firm tofu, drained well and cubed

Sauce 

1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger

2 tablespoons of potato starch (or cornstarch)

1/4 cup of water

1/3 cup of tamari sauce 

1/3 cup of rice vinegar

1 teaspoon of sugar (of your choice)

1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder

freshly grated black pepper 

Topping: sliced scallions

 

Directions: 

In a large rimmed skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms in 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth (or oil if your prefer) on a low flame until soft. Add tofu and continue to sauté adding a little more water or broth if needed to prevent burning. While sautéing, assemble sauce in a bowl. Add all ingredient and mix well. Pour over the sautéed vegetables and tofu and continue to cook on low for 5 minutes. Taste and add additional seasoning if desired. 

Place cooked warm rice in a pyrex casserole and flatten - add the tofu mushroom mixture to the top, decorate with scallions and serve. 

Take a look at my full plant-based Thanksgiving Menu Suggestions

A Plant-Based Thanksgiving Menu 2025

Entree:
Tofu smothered with mushroom and onion gravy, served over rice

Side:
Butternut Squash (or sweet potato), Apple, and Fresh Cranberry Bake

Vegetable:
Green Bean Medley — bright, crisp, and green

Salad:
Tasty Mediterranean salad with nuts or my grated carrot–cranberry salad — both are interesting company-worthy options

Dessert:
Vegan Pumpkin Pie — blender recipe, crustless

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That’s what I’m sharing for this holiday season — a hearty plant-based menu with ingredients that truly feel like Thanksgiving that everyone can enjoy!

How was your Thanksgiving? What did you make that you really enjoyed?

My Notes: 

1. Try quinoa in place of rice

2. Use butternut squash or sweet potato for the bake 

I was visiting Angie at her truly inspirational recipe blog at Angie's Recipes and saw this quote: I had to repeat.. thanks Angie.

 Americans have more food to eat than any other people and more diets to keep them from eating it. ~Anonymous 

Butternut Squash Apple Cranberry Bake with Oatmeal Streusel Topping

If you love butternut squash, this festive streusel-style holiday bake will quickly become one of your new easy seasonal favorites. The combination of tender butternut squash, tart cranberries, sweet apples and pumpkin pie spices, creates a bright, colorful fall side dish that looks beautiful on the table and tastes absolutely sweet tangy and delicious. 

Healthy Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Lighter Versions of Your Holiday Favorites

Why not start a new Thanksgiving tradition by making your favorite traditional holiday recipes a little healthier. 

We all would like to be thankful for better health- Right?  Healthier holiday eating is a good way to get started. As Ghandi said, "Be The Change You Want to See" 

A Book Review: A Maximillian Manatee Adventure

A Sweet New Children’s Book, A Maximillian Manatee Adventure,  Brings Manatees to Life for Little Readers

This beautifully illustrated paperback book includes an uplifting story about Maximillian and Minerva--two adorable manatees who meet out in the ocean and help each other feel safe. In addition to the story, there are also pages to color, pages with interesting fun facts, and an overall calm happy vibe that makes it perfect for bedtime reading.

Have you ever seen a manatee? 

I live In South Florida, where we actually get to see manatees floating in the warm Intracoastal waters, and on rare occasions we even see them near beach in the ocean. I can tell you that it is quite a thrill to see one!!! How many kids (or adults) actually get to see them? Have you? This book will introduce kids to these amazing docile creatures worth knowing/learning about.

I can still remember one of the books my mom read to me over and over when I was a young child. It was  about a puffin, an unusual bird, that I never forgot. Manatees are just as memorable, and Maximillian, the main character of the story book, gives young kids the same mix of wonder, warmth, and intriguing information that will stay with them for years to come.

I love the quality of this book. It is well written and the large joyful illustrations throughout are attractive to children and adults alike. Most of all, the book shares an the important environmental message.

Did you know ?  

Manatees grow to a massive 9 or 10 feet tall, can weigh thousands of pounds, while eating an entirely vegan diet. They are kind of cute and live peacefully even among sharks, alligators, and crocodiles. They have no known predators. Their greatest threats are from humans with boating accidents from the propellers, pollution, and damage to their habitats. They prefer warm waters. Florida manatees are considered an endangered species and boaters need to be especially careful not to hit them. 

This photo is not in the book. It is from free downloadable photos

This sign is in our neighborhood. I see the sign and other signs like it on my daily walks near the Intracoastal. 

My friends, Judi Berson-Levinson and Susan Beth Weizman, published this cute children’s book about manatees. After I reviewed it, I wanted to share it with my readers —especially those of you who might have kids or grandkids in the 2–6 age range. 

If interested, you can take a look at the book on Amazon.com: A Maximillian Manatee Adventure!:

Sharing this post on Saturday's Critters with Eileen 

Disclaimer: I was not asked to write a review and do not profit from its sales.  I really like the book after reading it and simply wanted to share it. All the opinions are my own, and I'll be giving it as gifts this holiday season to some special little ones. 

Birds, Birds, Birds....But No Turkey

Have you seen any turkey's lately? In Pennsylvania we have neighborhoods with lots of wild turkeys around. 

Even though I’m a complete amateur when it comes to bird-watching, (and I can barley identify one from the other) I’ve always loved spotting any feathered visitor that crosses my path. 

In Pennsylvania, I faithfully hang bird feeders in my backyard, hoping to attract interesting birds—though, if I’m honest, the squirrels seem to often clean us out before the birds get a chance. 

Easy Cauliflower Rice Recipe – Healthy Food Swap for Weight Watchers & Low-Carb Meals”

The holidays are coming and it's time to start thinking about how to balance out those extra high calorie treats with some lighter healthier "swaps." 

Have you tried cauliflower rice yet?

 It’s one of my go-to healthy low carb/low calorie food swaps instead of rice—and I rely on it for a light, flavorful, and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into my healthy lifestyle. I only like the frozen!!

Recently at my Weight Watchers Workshop, our leader talked about helpful strategies for weight loss and maintenance. Finding swaps for otherwise very fattening foods is a great strategy. You get to indulge without the guilt and weight gain.

Why Food healthier "Swaps" Matter

For me, food swaps have always been a vital part of healthy eating. I love finding creative ways to enjoy the foods I crave—without all the extra fat, sugar, or calories such as this fiesta cauliflower rice recipe below. It's very flavorful with the chopped tomato, fresh lime, and chopped xxxxxxxxxblack olives. 

Tomatoes, lime, and black olives recipe with cauliflower rice  
(link to recipe)

Here are a few of my favorites with links with recipe:

I like to use frozen fruit to make a frozen dessert instead of eating ice cream which I can otherwise never get enough of. It's a huge difference in calories, fat, and my health.

• Fresh fruit sorbets instead of high-fat ice cream

• Air-fried potato wedges, zucchini strips, or carrot fries instead of deep-fried French fries

• Peanut butter powder instead of full-fat peanut butter

  I like to sauté in vegetable broth or water instead of oil.

And of course, cauliflower rice tops my list as a substitute for rice.

Why Cauliflower Rice Is a Smart Choice

Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support your body’s natural defenses. It’s also a fantastic low-carb, low-calorie substitute for rice, making it ideal for anyone on a Weight Watchers, low-carb, or gluten-free plan.

The secret to perfect cauliflower rice? Cooking it so it’s light, fluffy, and never mushy. I only use frozen and think it cooks tastier than the fresh raw version.

My Easy Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Here’s my simple method for delicious cauliflower rice every time:

1. Open a bag of frozen cauliflower rice and pour it into a wide, high-rimmed skillet.(must be wide so the "rice' has room to spread out. )

2. Add ¼ cup of water or vegetable broth.

3. Heat on high for 1 minute.

4. Reduce to medium heat and cook for 5 more minutes. Add another 1/4 cup of liquid if needed to prevent burning. Watch it carefully.

For extra flavor and nutrition, I often add:

• ½ cup chopped red bell peppers

• 1 cup cubed tofu

• Season with turmeric, garlic powder, or fresh minced garlic, salt and cracked pepper or any seasoning of your choice.

If you add bell peppers, cook for about 7 minutes total and include an additional ¼ cup of water or broth halfway through the cooking if needed to prevent burning.

A Fast, One-Pan Meal You’ll Love

The result? A tasty, filling, and healthy side dish or entrée that’s light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. The best part—it’s a one-pot meal that comes together in minutes!

So next time you’re craving something warm and satisfying, try swapping your regular rice for cauliflower rice. It’s one of the easiest ways to make your meals healthier without sacrificing taste.

Do you have a plan to eat healthier for the holidays?  Any low calorie healthy suggestions for Thanksgiving?

My Notes: 

1. After cooking the cauliflower rice mixture, place in an oven proof bowl and bake in a preheated 375 degree oven for 5-7 minutes to crisp up the tofu and rice if desired.  

2. All recipes on this blog are gluten-free and since 2021 all recipes are vegan.

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