What is Passover and why is it celebrated?
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Passover, or Pesach, is a Jewish holiday that commemorates the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their liberation from slavery. The story is recounted in the Haggadah and is observed through a Seder meal, where symbolic foods like matzo and bitter herbs are eaten.
How long does Passover last?
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Passover lasts seven days in Israel and eight days in the diaspora (outside of Israel). The extra day is observed by some Jewish communities following traditional rabbinic customs.
What foods are forbidden during Passover?
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During Passover, chametz (leavened grain products) is forbidden. This includes bread, pasta, beer, and anything made with wheat, barley, rye, oats, or spelt that has been allowed to rise. Instead, Jewish families eat matzo, which is unleavened bread.
What is chametz and why is it prohibited?
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Chametz refers to any food made from the five grains (wheat, barley, rye, oats, spelt) that has been allowed to ferment and rise. According to Jewish tradition, the Israelites left Egypt in such a hurry that they did not have time to let their bread rise, so eating matzo symbolizes their escape to freedom.
What is a Passover Seder?
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The Passover Seder is a ritual meal held on the first (and sometimes second) night of Passover. It follows the Haggadah, which tells the story of the Exodus, and includes symbolic foods, the four cups of wine, and the tradition of hiding the afikoman.
What are the symbolic foods on the Seder plate?
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The Seder plate holds six symbolic foods: Maror (bitter herbs) – represents the bitterness of slavery. Charoset – a sweet mixture symbolizing the mortar used by enslaved Israelites. Karpas (vegetable, usually parsley) – dipped in salt water to symbolize tears. Zeroa (shank bone) – represents the Paschal sacrifice. Beitzah (egg) – symbolizes mourning and renewal. Chazeret (second bitter herb) – another reminder of slavery.
What is the afikoman and why is it hidden?
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The afikoman is a piece of matzo broken off and hidden during the Seder. Children search for it, and the finder usually receives a prize. The afikoman represents the Passover sacrifice and serves as the last food eaten at the meal.
What are the Four Cups of Wine?
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During the Passover Seder, participants drink four cups of wine, each symbolizing different stages of the Israelites' redemption from Egypt. The wine must be kosher for Passover, meaning it contains no chametz or leavening.
What is matzo, and why is it eaten on Passover?
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Matzo is an unleavened flatbread eaten during Passover to commemorate the Israelites' hasty departure from Egypt, where they had no time to let their bread rise. There are different types, including shmurah matzah, which is carefully guarded to avoid fermentation.
What is the best way to make matzo ball soup?
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Matzo ball soup is a classic Passover dish made with matzo meal, eggs, oil, and water. To make fluffy matzo balls, refrigerate the dough before shaping and cook them in boiling broth or salted water.
Are there gluten-free Passover foods?
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Yes! Many Passover foods are naturally gluten-free, including quinoa, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, and some types of matzo made from gluten-free grains like oat or almond flour. Look for "gluten-free kosher for Passover" labels.
What are some good Passover dessert ideas?
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Popular Passover desserts include flourless chocolate cake, coconut macaroons, and charoset truffles. Since traditional flour is not used, many desserts rely on almond flour, coconut, or potato starch.
What does "Dayenu" mean in the Passover Seder?
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Dayenu is a song sung during the Seder that means "It would have been enough." It expresses gratitude for all the miracles God performed for the Israelites. The song has many verses, each listing blessings that would have been sufficient on their own.
What are some fun ways to celebrate Passover with kids?
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Engage children with Passover crafts, storytelling, and interactive Seder games like hunting for the afikoman. Some families also enjoy Passover-themed shirts and gifts, such as "Deck the Halls with Matzo Balls" sweaters.
Are there funny Passover t-shirts and memes?
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Yes! Many people enjoy Passover-themed t-shirts and hoodies, often with phrases like "Let My People Go," "Matzo Ballin'," and "Deck the Halls with Matzo Balls." Passover memes featuring Frogs from the Ten Plagues or the Haggadah’s long storytelling are also popular.
Where can I buy Passover gifts?
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Passover gifts can be found at Jewish bookstores, online retailers, and specialty shops. Popular options include kosher wine gift baskets, personalized Haggadahs, and Seder plate sets.
What should I bring to a Passover Seder as a guest?
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Great gift ideas for a Passover Seder include kosher wine, a box of shmurah matzah, a Haggadah, or a Passover-themed dish towel or apron. Many hosts appreciate thoughtful, holiday-themed gifts.
Where can I find kosher wine for Passover?
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Many grocery stores, liquor stores, and online retailers carry kosher for Passover wine, including popular brands like Manischewitz, Herzog, and Bartenura. Be sure to check for the "Kosher for Passover" certification.
How do I clean my house for Passover?
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Jewish families thoroughly clean their homes before Passover to remove all chametz. This process, known as Bedikat Chametz, includes checking pantries, deep cleaning kitchens, and selling or disposing of any leavened products.