27 Traditional Purim Food Ideas for 2026
When celebrating this beloved Jewish holiday, Purim food plays a big role in the festivities. If you're new to Purim, it's a Jewish holiday celebrated on the 14th of the Hebrew month of Adar. This usually falls in March, although the date changes each year, much like Easter.
As Chabad.org explains, the holiday honors the story of Queen Esther and her uncle Mordechai, who played essential roles in saving the Jews of ancient Persia. According to legend, the villain Haman plotted to annihilate all the Jews at the time but was thwarted by Queen Esther’s bravery.
One of the integral parts of the celebration is a Purim feast marked by reading the Book of Esther, enjoying a meal with friends and family and sharing gifts of food known as mishloach manot.
Over the years, the observance has evolved from a minor festival to a significant celebration with traditional Purim food and drink enhancing the sense of joy, heritage and togetherness.
To find out more about Purim holiday foods, let's dive into this helpful guide, which covers a bit more about the significance and history of Purim, as well as offering insights into the delicious foods eaten during the momentous celebration.
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What Food Is Eaten on Purim?
Being a time of revelry and rejoicing, food and drink play a pivotal role in Purim celebrations. Specific types of Purim food carry symbolic meaning and reflect the themes of community, resilience, bravery and gratitude.
These include the iconic hamantaschen, representing Haman’s hat (or ears), and Purim recipes featuring nuts and legumes, honoring Queen Esther’s adherence to the kosher diet.
Traditional staples such as dumplings, enriched breads and fruit cakes, as well as poppy-seed-filled snacks and lots of wine and spirits, are also part of the Purim holiday food range.
27 Purim Holiday Food Ideas
1. Hamantaschen
These triangular cookies are the classic Purim food and a must-have on any celebration table. Hamantaschen are loved for their sweet fillings and symbolic shape.
As My Jewish Learning explains, these Purim cookies are said to represent the hat of the villain Haman (or the ears or his pockets stuffed with bribes, depending on the story being told).
The particular history of this food for Purim also reflects the movement of the Jews across Asia and Europe. The sweet treat took different forms as the community moved from region to region.
Traditionally filled with poppy seeds (mohn), prunes (lekvar) or fruit preserves, they bring a sweet touch to the Purim food table. Over the years, Hamantaschen recipes have become increasingly creative as well.
Today, you can find these Purim cookies filled with chocolate, caramel, cheesecake and even savory versions such as spanakopita (spinach and cheese) and even roast beef. Many bakeries offer ready-made options in numerous flavors, ensuring a perfect Hamantaschen for every taste.
2. Hadji Bada
A beloved Sephardi Jewish dessert, hadji bada is a light, fragrant almond cookie that is a classic Purim food. Originating from the Jewish community in Iraq, these sweet Purim treats are naturally unleavened, making them an ideal addition to the Passover feast and a great Hanukkah food.
Conventionally crafted with ground almonds or walnuts, egg whites and sugar, variations of this Purim food differ depending on its origins.
For example, Israeli Jews often add rose water to the cookie, while the European Jewish community leans towards cinnamon or cardamom versions. Some modern varieties include pistachios or coconut as well.
3. Kreplach
Often referred to as “Jewish wontons,” kreplach are triangular dumplings with deep symbolic meaning in Jewish traditions. According to Kabbalistic thought, the white dough exterior and red meat-filled interiors signify the balance of mercy and justice.
This Purim food is customarily served in a chicken soup or chicken broth, and the dumplings can be filled with beef, onions and vegetables. Modern versions include spices and herbs and are folded into half-moons or triangles.
Making Purim foods like kreplach from scratch can be laborious and time-consuming, so it is not unusual to find recipes that use store-bought wonton wrappers to simplify the process.
4. Purim Challah
Challah made for Purim is also known as keylitsh or koylitsh. These oversized, intricately braided loaves of bread are part of the customary Purim food menu, with the braids symbolizing the rope used to hang the villain Haman.
Challah consists of a dough that is enriched with eggs. Some versions come studded with raisins or a sprinkle of colorful candies to add to the charm.
Although not a universal belief, some consider the Purim challah closely related to the Russian kulich and the Czech kolach, which are also celebratory loaves of bread made for Easter, Christmas and other gatherings and holidays.
No matter the shape, size or history, challah is a Purim food showstopper on any festive table.
5. Lentils and Beans
Beans and lentils are essential to Purim food traditions, rooted in the fearlessness of Queen Esther. To adhere to kosher dietary laws and keep her Jewish identity a secret, she embraced a vegetarian diet. History reports that her meals primarily comprised nuts, seeds, legumes and grains.
As a nod towards her ingenuity and persistence, beans and lentils are featured prominently in Purim holiday food. While no strict rules exist for serving legumes during Purim, conventional recipes include salted beans or chickpeas seasoned sparingly with salt and pepper.
Today, in many parts of the world, Jewish communities celebrate with hearty stews or appetizing salads that add a flavorful dimension to the festive table. If you're looking for a hearty Purim meal that feeds many, making a vegan lentil soup is a good place to start.
6. Poppy Seeds
Your regular bagel topping takes on a whole new meaning during Purim. Poppy seeds are no strangers to being included in both sweet and savory foods in Central and Eastern Europe.
These tiny, crunchy seeds are also deeply rooted in the Purim food tradition and enjoyed by many during this period. One of the theories for this is that it's thought that Queen Esther survived on poppy seeds during her fast to save the persecuted Jews.
As a result, they have been part of Purim ceremonies ever since. One of the most well-known Purim food ideas that uses poppy seeds is the classic hamantaschen filled with mohn (a poppy seed paste).
In recent years, other Purim recipes such as poppy seed cakes, breads, salads and pastas have also been popularized.
7. Oven-Fried Tofu
Along with feasting, sharing gifts (mishloach manot) and giving to charity, the story of Queen Esther is a vital part of Purim. Another relevant story that is equally as fascinating is that many traditional Purim foods are plant-based.
In honor of her steadfast commitment to a kosher diet without revealing her Jewish identity, Queen Esther was essentially a vegan, thus leading the way for the innovative vegan Purim menus enjoyed today.
If you want to make the most of this versatile ingredient, this crispy baked tofu is an ideal starting point for several delicious plant-forward dishes. Use these crispy bites in a fresh salad, add them to a pilaf or dunk them into a spicy sauce for an easy side dish. Making air fryer tofu is another tasty and convenient idea.
Recipe Steps: 9
Total Recipe Time: 55 minutes
8. Boulukunio
There are items on a Purim food menu that date back centuries. One such historical treat is boulukunio.
Originating from Medieval Spain, this gluten-free almond and sesame brittle is a tasty, chewy confection traditionally enjoyed during Purim and Hanukkah by Rhodesli Jews.
To make this Purim treat, sesame seeds are toasted and then cooked with honey, cinnamon and almonds to create a syrupy paste. This paste is shaped into bite-sized diamonds before cooling into a crunchy and satisfying snack that is often added to Purim food baskets for gifting.
9. Brisket
If there is one dish that usually dominates a traditional Jewish table, it’s brisket. This humble cut of meat from the front of the animal, has consistently appeared as part of Jewish feasts at special occasions since the 1700s.
Its affordability and kosher status made it popular, but its inherent toughness demands a certain level of patience and skill when cooking it.
The trick is to cook this cut of meat as low and slow as possible, after which it transforms into something delicious and meltingly soft. There are several ways to flavor this Purim food, such as adding sauces, root vegetables, spices, vinegar and even brewed coffee or cola.
It’s usually served with dried fruits, potatoes and other vegetables. Nowadays, Purim foods like savory hamantaschen stuffed with brisket are even available. For another delicious idea on how to serve brisket (or leftovers), check out this brisket taco recipe.
10. Sambusak
This Purim, get inspired by the Middle Eastern Jewish community and indulge in a popular Sephardic snack. Sambusaks are pastry turnovers which fall into the same family as samosas, empanadas and bourekas.
These crescent-shaped, fried (or sometimes baked) pastries have been part of the culinary lexicon since the 1300s. Sambusaks are usually filled with spiced meats or lentils, but as with other Purim foods, the fillings have been seen to be more creative and unique in recent years.
If your Purim food choices call for a vegetarian menu, classic cheese-filled sambusak will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Made with feta and fresh parsley, the creamy, tangy interior perfectly matches the crunchy exterior.
No matter the filling, sambusak are usually sprinkled with sesame or poppy seeds for an extra nod toward Purim food traditions. As a snack, it's also versatile since it stays fresh for days in a sealed container, making it an ideal addition to mishloach manot.
11. Chickpeas
In keeping with Queen Esther’s commitment to vegetarian food (and her secret Kosher diet), several communities prefer to plan Purim food with a purely plant-focused menu. Therefore, chickpeas, which are nutritious, tasty and affordable, are a key ingredient in many Purim food recipes.
You can serve chickpeas in various ways. To keep it simple, serve them boiled and seasoned with just salt and pepper. Alternatively, add cooked chickpeas to a vegan stew, make coconut curry chickpeas or even whip up a nourishing bowl of soup with chickpeas as a star ingredient.
12. Menenas/Ma’amoul
Purim is a time for traditional delicacies and lots of creativity. While the lineup of classic Purim food may have evolved, the spiritual significance behind each dish always befits the holiday’s theme of joy and deliverance.
Hamantaschen will continue to be the go-to Purim treat, but buttery, nutty cookies like menenas or ma’amoul (traditionally associated with Arab cuisine) are also gaining popularity among sweet Purim food items. The specific shape of ma’amoul is usually achieved with intricate wooden molds or tweezers.
While these delicate pastries may be challenging to make at home, they are definitely worth the effort. The traditional recipe calls for a flavoring of rosewater and pistachios, but versions using dates or walnuts are also available.
13. Hummus
Hummus, a creamy spread made from blended chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste) and garlic, together with olive oil and lemon juice, has deep roots in Middle Eastern cuisine. Its rich, nutty flavor makes it an irresistible addition to any celebration — including as part of your Purim feast.
Consider adding this Purim food to your mishloach manot to add extra layers of flavor and texture. Those looking for finger food ideas will also find hummus to be a top choice. It's a delightful snack dish that pairs well with various accompaniments, such as fresh carrot sticks, crispy kreplach, pita chips and tangy pickles.
Hummus can be jazzed up or toned down to match the rest of your Purim food menu as well. Some of our favorite hummus recipes with a twist include black bean hummus and spicy hummus.
14. Beef Ribs
Many types of Purim food mimic the rejoicing and celebrating associated with the festival. Friends and family coming together and creating a holiday meal to remember is a huge part of Purim, which is seen as a time for costumes, music, drinking and feasting.
One way to make an unforgettable Purim meal is to curate a selection of standout main dishes. One great standout dish to go for is beef back ribs, which will elevate your menu and keep your guests returning for more.
Easy to make at home, most of the work is done in the oven, where the meat roasts slowly until it is melt-in-the-mouth tender. Serve with root vegetables, challah or even some crispy kreplach for an addictive Purim meal.
Recipe Steps: 8
Total Recipe Time: 3 hours and 20 minutes (most of which is cooking time)
15. Kale Soup
There is no wrong time for this white bean and kale soup! It's a simple yet flavorful dish that comes together quickly, making it an ideal Purim food. This soup is soothing and delicious, with a perfect combination of creamy and brothy textures, as well as additional hints of spice and citrus.
The blended beans make the broth rich and satisfying without adding dairy or nuts. Kale, of course, adds nutritive value and a pop of color. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread for dipping as the perfect accompaniment to this nourishing bowl of Purim food.
Recipe Steps: 6
Total Recipe Time: 35 minutes
16. Lamb Shanks
If you're feeling adventurous this Purim (depending on how orthodox you are and where you live), you may be open to celebrating with a delicious, slow-roasted lamb shank. Some communities embrace the inclusion of lamb as a Purim food, while others stay away.
If you are okay with eating lamb, this recipe offers a great way to make the most of a budget cut of meat, elevating the flavor by cooking it with herbs and spices. The result is a tangy meal that's best served on a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or earthy red skin mashed potatoes.
Recipe Steps: 12
Total Recipe Time: 3 hours and 15 minutes (most of which is cooking time)
17. Spatchcock Chicken
If time is not on your side and you need a crowd-pleasing main course (although not a traditional Purim food) for your menu, look no further than this practical and easy recipe for spatchcock chicken.
Spatchcock refers to the way the bird is prepared before roasting. In this case, the backbone is removed and the meat is flattened. You can do this yourself or ask your butcher to do the work for you. No more wrestling with carving the chicken, as the meat in the dish falls apart once cooked.
As a bonus, the pan drippings from the preparation of this Purim food make an incredible gravy. In keeping with the drinking traditions of Purim, pair this meal with your favorite white wine for a perfect meal.
Recipe Steps: 13
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (most of which is cooking time)
18. Falafel
A typical Middle Eastern food, falafel is also a popular Purim food choice. These deep-fried balls or fritters are made from chickpeas (or broad beans).
Usually flavored with spices and herbs, Levantine cuisines have these delicious bite-sized foods served with a cooling yogurt dip.
Preparing a falafel sandwich wrapped in a pita or any other bread you like is also a good option. Add pickled vegetables for extra crunch, and you will have one of the most satisfying and appetizing Purim food ideas.
19. Lentil Chili
If you want a big-batch recipe to feed a crowd (and keep for leftovers), lentil chili ticks all the boxes. You can also keep it entirely vegan if needed by using plant-based sour cream and cheese toppings.
Comforting, spicy and nourishing, it’s the perfect contemporary Purim food to serve with toppings such as crispy kreplach that double up as tortilla chips, pickled vegetables and lime slices.
Recipe Steps: 5
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
20. Keto Beef Stew
Cooking for a crowd means juggling various dietary requirements and restrictions. If you're cooking for people who like to keep their meals low-carb, this keto beef stew recipe is sure to impress.
No dairy is used in this Purim food either, making it a great recipe if you have guests who avoid dairy but still eat meat.
The texture of this Purim dish is rich and indulgent thanks to the slow cooking of the meat and vegetables. One top tip is to try not to skimp on the meat quality, as it does have an impact on the final dish.
Adding a sprinkling of herbs of choice for extra layers of flavor is also recommended.
Recipe Steps: 9
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour and 35 minutes (most of which is cooking time)
21. Braised Chicken Thighs
This recipe for braised chicken thighs is steeped in ancient flavors and heavily influenced by Persian culinary heritage. The chicken is simmered in a sauce of saffron and yogurt, along with warming spices like turmeric and cinnamon, adding a rich and aromatic touch to Purim food traditions.
Serve this juicy chicken dish with dry fruit-studded rice or warm flatbread.
Recipe Steps: 6
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
22. Chicken and Yellow Rice
There are a good number of chicken-based recipes for Purim. Another one we love is chicken and yellow rice, which is kind of like an easy version of pilaf.
It's a one-pot dish that comes together quickly and will surely please all tastes. Use bone-in chicken thighs for the best flavor, and add dry fruit and nuts to make it more Purim-appropriate.
Recipe Steps: 7
Total Recipe Time: 40 minutes
23. Lentil Tabbouleh
If you're searching for vegan and vegetarian Purim food ideas, lentil tabbouleh should be near the top of your must-cook list. In this recipe, lentils replace traditional bulgur wheat for a refreshing twist on Purim's food heritage.
This vibrant dish notably features chilled cooked lentils tossed with fresh parsley, mint and tomatoes, as well as cucumbers and a tangy lemon dressing. It beautifully aligns with the festival’s themes of vegetarianism, health and heritage.
Recipe Steps: 6
Total Recipe Time: 30 minutes
24. Dark Chocolate Truffles
Are you wondering what sweetness to add to your mishloach manot? Try these dark chocolate truffles for an indulgent little Purim treat. They are deceptively easy to make, store well and are deliciously decadent.
The trick is always to use the highest-quality chocolate you can find. Aim for those with 70% cacao solids for the best results. Coat the truffles with your choice of nuts for an extra nod to Purim food traditions and pack them in pretty packaging for maximum impact.
Recipe Steps: 9
Total Recipe Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
25. Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins
Leaning into the custom of using poppy seeds in Purim foods, this recipe is an ideal addition to a gift basket. While it isn't tied to the deepest Purim roots, lemon poppy seed muffins are also an easy-to-make breakfast treat if you have family staying over this festive season.
The tart lemon glaze adds oomph to a buttery muffin, brightening your day. If you prefer loaf cakes, whip up some lemon poppy seed bread instead.
Recipe Steps: 9
Total Recipe Time: 40 minutes
26. Pear Galette
With all the other Purim food planning, a complicated, structured pie can sometimes be too demanding. Instead, try an easier-to-prepare galette.
This pear galette, for example, is a freeform tart assembled by placing the filling in the center of a rolled-out dough and folding the edges over the fruit.
Instead of a pie’s polished look, a galette has a rustic charm, with uneven, imperfect edges highlighting its simplicity. If you're new to baking (or short on time), you can swap the homemade cornmeal dough for store-bought pie dough to whip up a show-stopping Purim dessert with minimal hassle.
Adding a galette to your Purim food spread is an easy and delicious way to elevate your festive table. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for maximum indulgence.
Recipe Steps: 14
Total Recipe Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
27. Moscato Sangria
As a festival, Purim is one of celebration, joy and generosity. Wine plays a symbolic role in observing these themes, and the obligation to drink is taken quite seriously.
Many communities believe that when we drink, we are encouraged to see the humanity in others, which fosters a sense of empathy. To play into this while enhancing your Purim food and drink spread, serve a vibrant Moscato sangria.
A perfect Purim libation, the white wine combines with juicy grapes and berries and is not too strong either. Incorporating such a festive beverage is a delightful way to complement your Purim food table and embrace the holiday spirit.
Recipe Steps: 5
Total Recipe Time: 10 minutes
Learn To Cook the Best Purim Foods
Cooking classes, whether in-person or online, offer excellent opportunities to enhance your skills and expand your repertoire of recipes under the guidance of a professional chef.
If you're ready to take your gatherings to new heights, check out cooking classes near you, which can help you explore culinary traditions and holiday recipes.
If you can't attend in person, online cooking classes provide the same hands-on experience and expert tips as in-person classes. Learning from your own kitchen, you'll discover ways to refine techniques and confidently recreate traditional Purim foods.
Accessible and engaging, both options are a fantastic way to celebrate food, gain knowledge and enjoy cooking with expert support.
Beautifully encapsulating the festive spirit of this cherished holiday, Purim food plays a pivotal role in the celebration. Every dish tells a story of joy, courage and community, from the iconic hamantaschen to hearty vegetarian mains, comforting stews and light, tangy salads.
Modern Purim foods now incorporate creative twists on heritage recipes and showcase diversity while honoring the values of gratitude and unity.
As you gather around the festive table, let these recipes inspire a feast that delights the palate and pays homage to Purim's profound traditions and triumph.
For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
