Traditional Purim Foods : What’s Eaten and When

Understanding why and when we eat traditional Purim foods

Purim is a celebration and commemoration of the survival of the Jewish people who were marked for death in the 5^th century. The story, narrated in the Book of Esther, recounts Queen Esther's bravery in saving her people from Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews.

Purim is a traditional Jewish holiday that holds a special place in the hearts of those who celebrate it. Each year, Purim is a time for festivities, celebration, reflection, and unity within Jewish communities and families. Throughout the celebration, many traditional Purim foods and pastries are served and enjoyed.

How to celebrate Purim

Purim is traditionally celebrated with food, charity, and gatherings. Central to this celebration are the four key observances: the reading of the Book of Esther, the giving of charity to at least two individuals in need, sharing the gift of food with at least one friend, and partaking in a festive meal. These traditions form the celebration of Purim as they combine the acts of remembrance, generosity, and communal spirit in a celebration of faith and resilience.
 

What food do you eat on Purim?

Purim celebrations are often accompanied by a variety of foods, many of which are crafted to mock the antagonist of the Purim story, Haman. Some of the most traditional Purim foods include:

• Hamantaschen : triangular cookies filled with poppy seeds, chocolate, jelly, or other fillings
• Hadgi Badah : almond cookie
• Kreplach: stuffed triangular dumplings
• Kulich : a sweet challah
• Nuts and legumes
• Dishes with poppy seeds

At Purim meals, it is common to find appetizers and sides that incorporate poppy seeds, chickpeas, beans, lenites, and a variety of nuts. These appetizers and sides are typically eaten before the Purim meal. These Purim appetizers pay homage to the legend that Esther adhered to a kosher diet by consuming only nuts, seeds, and legumes while residing in the palace to avoid violating the laws of kashrut.

What are the pastries eaten on Purim?

A variety of traditional pastries are served and given as gifts during the celebrations of Purim. One of the most popular Purim pastries is hamantaschen, a triangular cookie that is filled with poppy seeds, chocolate, jelly, or a variety of other fillings. At Broadway Basketeers, our Purim Gift Set includes delicious fruit filled hamantaschen along with an assortments of nuts and other sweet and savory Kosher snacks.

These pastries get their triangular shape because of the triangular hat that was worn by Haman, the antagonist in the story of Ester.

Can you drink alcohol on Purim?

Drinking alcohol on Purim is allowed, and it is even encouraged as part of the festivities because Purim is to be celebrated with drinking and rejoicing. Many wines and other drinks pair well with the pastries and foods that are consumed during the Purim celebration.

The foods enjoyed during Purim play a significant role in the celebration. From traditional pastries like hamantaschen to hearty dishes with beans, lentils, and nuts, each delight carries its own symbolic meaning. Whether it's indulging in sweet treats or savoring savory delights, the act of sharing these foods with loved ones fosters a sense of community and celebration.