The convergence of Hanukkah and Christmas in 2024 presents a unique opportunity for families to blend holiday traditions, especially in the culinary realm. Erica Holland-Toll, culinary director at the Culinary Edge, a culinary innovation agency, shared her perspective on navigating this special occasion, often referred to as "Chrismukkah."

Growing up in a mixed-faith family, Holland-Toll has always cherished Hanukkah. With this year marking the fourth time in her life that Hanukkah and Christmas coincide, she reflects on the joy of merging customs. Her family's celebrations beautifully intertwine lighting the menorah, preparing her grandmother's latkes, enjoying her mother-in-law's pepperoni toasts, and using toffee as gelt for the dreidel game.

Both Holland-Toll and her husband are chefs, embracing holidays as a chance to explore new culinary creations while honoring cherished family recipes. This year, their Chrismukkah celebration will feature a delightful fusion of Italian cuisine and her grandmother's traditional latkes. She playfully suggests referring to the latkes as "potatoes rosti" for a touch of Italian flair.

Grammie's Best-Ever Latkes

Ingredients

• 5 pounds Russet potatoes, washed
• 1 large yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 eggs
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Olive oil, for frying

Directions

1. Grate the potatoes and onion using a box grater.
2. Combine the eggs, salt, pepper, and flour with the grated potatoes and onion.
3. Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Test the oil temperature with a small amount of the mixture.
4. Once hot, fry two-tablespoon-sized portions until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve immediately with sour cream and applesauce.

This recipe, courtesy of Erica Holland-Toll, offers a delicious way to incorporate a beloved Hanukkah tradition into a combined Chrismukkah celebration.