8 Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah (on GAPS diet)
Are you looking for ways to celebrate Hanukkah while on a special diet, such as GAPS? Well you’ve come to the right place!
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a joyous celebration that holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Jewish community. It commemorates the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days in the ancient Temple of Jerusalem.
As we embrace this festive season, let’s explore the traditions and discover how to celebrate Hanukkah while adhering to a special diet.
8 Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah
1. Light Menorah Candles
The lighting of the menorah is a central ritual during Hanukkah. Each night, an additional candle is lit, representing the miracle of the oil.
Set up your menorah in a central location and gather your loved ones to kindle the flames. This beautiful tradition symbolizes hope, faith, and the importance of spreading light in the darkness.
For those with children, a lovely pre-Hanukkah tradition is to have the kids make their own menorahs. This is something even older children will love, and you are able to use an abundance of recycled materials to make a sustainable and unique menorah for each holiday.
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2. Sing Hanukkah Songs
Hanukkah songs, or Hanukkah melodies, are a delightful way to engage in the festivities. Gather around the menorah and sing traditional songs such as Ma’oz Tzur (Rock of Ages) and Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah.
These tunes bring a sense of unity and joy to the celebration. Even without any additional celebration, kids will appreciate this as a central part of celebrating Hanukkah.
3. Play Dreidel
Dreidel, a four-sided spinning top, is a beloved Hanukkah game. It is a fun activity for all ages and adds an element of excitement to the festivities.
Gather your family and friends, spin the dreidel, and follow the rules of the game. It’s a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories and bond with loved ones.
You can also purchase wood dreidles to decorate yourself, or make dreidles out of legos!
4. Eat Chocolate Coins (Gelt)
Indulging in chocolate coins, also known as gelt, is a delicious Hanukkah tradition. These golden treats symbolize both the ancient coins and the concept of giving.
While enjoying this sweet treat, it’s important to be mindful of your dietary needs. If you are on a GAPS or Paleo diet for Hanukkah- check out my recipe for chocolate coins made with honey!
5. Make and Eat Latkes
Latkes, crispy potato pancakes, are a quintessential Hanukkah dish. Traditionally fried in oil, they symbolize the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days. If you want to know how to enjoy Hanukkah while supporting your health goals, here are some tips.
A Note on Cooking Oils
For frying you could use ghee, a light olive oil (generally not recommended for heating, but I would be ok with this as a special occasion one time deal), or avocado oil (same deal as olive oil, in the US use Chosen Foods brand only, as it is not adulterated). Learn more about healthy fats here.
Latkes on GAPS Diet
Modify the classic recipe to accommodate your dietary preferences. For GAPS, the best choice would be to use rutabaga, as the color and flavor are closest to potatoes which are not allowed on GAPS.
- For Stage 4, you can bake instead of fry your rutabaga latkes. Serve with homemade soured cream.
- For Stage 5, you can serve with homemade apple sauce!
- For Stage 6 and Full GAPS, you could actually fry your latkes!
Latkes on Paleo diet
If you’re on an Autoimmune Paleo diet consider using sweet potatoes, or for normal Paleo or Whole30 diet, make them from potatoes. Serve with unsweetened apple sauce, such as this one.
6. Make and Eat Sufganiyot
Sufganiyot, jelly-filled doughnuts, are another delightful Hanukkah treat. While the traditional version may not align with your special diet, fear not!
Explore recipes for gluten-free, dairy-free, or sugar-free sufganiyot. Fill them with homemade fruit compotes or use natural sweeteners to keep them both delicious and nourishing.
Honestly, I do not have any good sufganiyot recipe to recommend for GAPS at this time. Once you are on Coming Off GAPS and are able to incorporate small amounts of starches, there are plenty of paleo donut recipes on the internet!
And note, that since GAPS is a temporary protocol, hang tight for a couple of years, and you may be able to have this as a treat in the not so distant future.
7. Gifts!
Gift-giving has become an integral part of Hanukkah, representing the joy and gratitude of the season. When selecting presents, consider options that align with your special diet.
Treat yourself or your loved ones to cookbooks with healthy recipes, kitchen gadgets to make meal preparation easier, or wellness-related gifts that support their overall well-being.
Get inspired by some of our Favorite GAPS Kitchen Gear
8. Family Activity
Hanukkah is a time to come together as a family and create cherished memories. Engage in activities that promote togetherness and well-being.
Consider organizing a family cooking session to prepare a special Hanukkah meal, or embark on a group outdoor adventure to enjoy the winter festivities. These shared experiences strengthen bonds and enrich the celebration.
We always incorporate some sort of outdoor activity during Hanukkah and my kids look forward to it.
Tips for Celebrating Hanukkah While on a Special Diet
Here are some tips for celebrating Hanukkah when on a paleo or GAPS diet.
- Plan ahead: Research and find suitable recipes that cater to your dietary needs. Stock up on ingredients and ensure you have alternatives available.
- Incorporate healthier cooking methods: Opt for baking, air frying, or grilling instead of frying to reduce oil consumption. Choose better fats.
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods: Prioritize incorporating vegetables and proteins, before you go to a hosted Hanukkah meal. This will support your health goals, while reducing the temptation to indulge in foods that are off-plan for you.
- Mindful indulgence: Enjoy traditional Hanukkah treats in moderation, finding healthier versions (such as these chocolate coins) or making modifications to align with your dietary requirements.
- Seek support: Consult with a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner who can guide you in making balanced choices and offer personalized advice throughout the holiday season.
Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah on the GAPS Diet
Hanukkah is a time of celebration, light, and unity. By incorporating these traditions and tips into your festivities, you can embrace the joy of the season while adhering to your special diet.
Remember, it’s about finding balance, nourishing your body, and sharing meaningful moments with loved ones. Wishing you a happy and healthy Hanukkah filled with light and love!
