1. Home
  2. Food & Drink
  3. Kosher Food

Why do Jews eat kreplach on Purim?

By Giora Shimoni, About.com

Kreplach

Kreplach

Giora Shimoni
Question: Why do Jews eat kreplach on Purim?
Answer: Kreplach, a noodle dumpling filled with meat or potatoes, is traditionally served on the Jewish festival of Purim. Why do Jews eat kreplach on Purim?

Some say that kreplach, stuffed cabbage and other foods with fillings are eaten on Purim because the hidden filling is reminiscent of the surprises and secret meanings wrapped up inside the Purim story.

Another explanation for the Purim kreplach eating tradition centers on the chopped meat in the kreplach. Jews in Eastern Europe began to eat food that had been chopped or beaten on Purim to be consistent with the Purim tradition to make noise, stomp feet, clap hands whenever Haman's name is mentioned during the reading of the Book of Esther.

A final explanation for why Jews eat kreplach on Purim comes from Alfred J. Kolatch's The Jewish Book of Why. Kolatch writes that the kreplach's triangular shape symbolizes the three Jewish patriarch (Abraham, Isaac and Jacob). And it was from her antecedents that Esther derived the strength she needed to save the Jews from annihilation in Persia.

Explore Kosher Food

About.com Special Features

Conquering High Cholesterol

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Mornings Made Easy

Reclaim the morning and your sanity with these easy recipes, tips, and timesaving ideas. More >

  1. Home
  2. Food & Drink
  3. Kosher Food
  4. Holiday Cooking
  5. Purim
  6. Purim Food FAQ
  7. Why do Jews eat kreplach on Purim - Reasons Symbols Jewish Cuisine>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.