In honor of the first night of Hanukkah, I made a batch of latkes (potato pancakes). This is no easy feat. The batter is wet, and as it fries, it sprays oil over the stove, my forearm and nearby counters. Even today, my place reeks. But served with a dollop of apple sauce and sour cream, this could be my favorite meal of the year. After all the effort, I poured a martini, lit the menorah (candles) and savored a holiday moment, that despite experiencing alone, felt utterly complete.
Sounds like a content moment. Wishing you many more this season whether your with friends or alone.
Thanks, Kathleen.
Contentment comes in many configurations. . Your moment sounds blissful and yummy. And your latkes look fabulous.
Happy Hanukkah to you!
And I’m having leftovers tonight. Yay!
Boil cinnamon sticks in a pot and it takes any it helps with the smell. I do it everytime I fry bacon or any other smelly-fried food.
I’ve never heard of that. How many sticks?
I usually do like 2-3 and keep in on for a while to release the smell.
I’ll definitely try this next time.
I tried the cinnamon sticks after cooking bacon last night. Works like a charm! Thanks so much Itzel! I hadn’t heard of this before. Love bacon but not the lingering smell.
Now, if there was just an easy fix for cleaning up the stove.
You weren’t truly alone, you had your joy in your traditions. And you shared it with all of us! I bet they were delicious!
And Leyla’s comment makes me realize that you are not alone in another way: by participating in that tradition you are joined with everyone else who is celebrating. It’s kind of a comforting thought.
Plus sounds delicious!
That’s part of what I love about rituals and traditions.
They were so good, and I’ve banked a few in the freezer.
I love this post so much. Happy Hanukkah!
It was a very happy Hanukkah, indeed.
I love that you savored tradition joyfully. Solitary holidays can be lovely and meaningful. And, as Leyla and Robin note, you weren’t alone.
Btw, those latkes look divine!
It has taken me a long time to be able to appreciate a “solitary” holiday. It’s not that I make a habit of it, but when it happens, I can still feel the joy.