Kugel is a traditional Jewish dish that is often served during the holiday season, particularly during Hanukkah and Christmas. This dish has been enjoyed for generations and is a staple in many households. While there are many variations of kugel, one of the most beloved and classic versions is the Christmas kugel. This dish is not only delicious, but it also holds a special place in many families' hearts and is often passed down from generation to generation. In this article, we will dive into the history and ingredients of this beloved dish, as well as provide a step-by-step guide on how to make your very own Christmas kugel at home.
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Extra Large Eggs, Half And Half
Noodle kugel is a classic Jewish dish that has been passed down from generation to generation. It's a comforting and delicious casserole made with egg noodles, cottage cheese, and a touch of sweetness. It's the perfect side dish for any holiday or family gathering. Here are 20 different variations of noodle kugel to try out and add to your recipe collection.
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My Family’s Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Eggs, Sugar, Cottage Cheese, Unsalted
This recipe has been in my family for generations and it's always been a hit. The secret ingredient? A touch of sour cream mixed in with the cottage cheese. It gives the kugel a tangy and creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet noodles. This is a must-try for any kugel lover.
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Vanilla Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Vanilla Pudding, Egg Noodles, Cream Cheese, Sugar
If you have a sweet tooth, this vanilla noodle kugel is for you. A hint of vanilla extract and a sprinkle of cinnamon gives this kugel a delicious dessert-like taste. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
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Lokshen Kugel (Savory Noodle Kugel)
Main Ingredients: Sour Cream, Cottage Cheese, Unsalted Butter, Eggs
This savory version of noodle kugel is a great alternative for those who prefer less sweetness in their dishes. With the addition of sautéed onions and garlic, this kugel has a depth of flavor that will have you going back for seconds. Serve it alongside a roast chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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Peach Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Butter, Lemon, Sugar, Cinnamon, Salt
Summer may be over, but you can still enjoy the flavors of peaches in this delicious kugel. Sliced peaches are layered in between the noodles and cottage cheese, giving this dish a burst of fruity sweetness. It's the perfect side dish for a fall brunch or dinner party.
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Savory Noodle Kugel with Leeks and Mushrooms
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Vegetable Oil, Leeks, Button Mushrooms, Large
This kugel is loaded with savory flavors thanks to the addition of leeks and mushrooms. The vegetables are sautéed until golden brown and then mixed in with the noodles and cottage cheese. It's a hearty and delicious dish that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
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Vegan Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Soft Tofu, Vegan Sour Cream, Agave Nectar
For those who follow a vegan diet, this kugel recipe is a must-try. Instead of using eggs and dairy, this kugel uses tofu and almond milk to create a creamy and flavorful dish. It's a great option for those who still want to enjoy the comfort of a traditional noodle kugel without the animal products.
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Throw Together Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, Vanilla, Margarine, Cottage Cheese, Sugar
Don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen? This throw-together kugel is perfect for you. All you need are a few pantry staples like egg noodles, cottage cheese, and canned peaches. Mix it all together and bake for a quick and easy side dish that will impress your dinner guests.
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Gluten-Free Jewish Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Eggs, Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, Honey
For those who are gluten intolerant, this kugel recipe is a game changer. It uses gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free flour blend to create a dish that is just as delicious as the traditional version. No one will even know it's gluten-free!
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Cinnamon Apple Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Wide Noodles, Large Eggs, Large
Apples and cinnamon are a classic fall flavor combination, and they work beautifully in this kugel. Sliced apples are mixed in with the noodles and cottage cheese, and then topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar. It's like a warm and comforting apple pie in a casserole dish.
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Sweet Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Wide Egg Noodles, Large Eggs, Sour Cream
If you prefer a sweeter kugel, this recipe is for you. It's made with cream cheese, condensed milk, and a touch of honey, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor. It's perfect for a special occasion or when you just want to treat yourself.
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This Cauliflower Kugel Might Be Better Than Noodle...
Main Ingredients: Large White Onion, Cauliflower, Eggs, Black Pepper, Sea
This unique kugel recipe replaces the noodles with cauliflower for a healthier twist. The cauliflower is boiled and then blended with eggs, cottage cheese, and cheddar cheese to create a creamy and flavorful dish. It's perfect for those who are watching their carb intake.
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My Ultimate Sweet Apple Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Butter, Granny Smith Apples, Cream
This recipe takes the classic apple kugel to the next level. The noodles are mixed with a custard-like mixture made with cream cheese and apple cider, giving it a creamy and rich texture. It's the ultimate indulgence for any kugel lover.
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Grandma Rose's Jewish Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Butter, Large Eggs, Cottage Cheese, Sour
There's nothing like a recipe passed down from your grandmother, and this kugel is just that. Made with simple ingredients like egg noodles, cottage cheese, and eggs, it's a no-fuss dish that will take you back to your childhood. Make it for a taste of nostalgia and comfort.
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Salt and Pepper Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Eggs, Paprika
This kugel is anything but bland. The addition of salt and pepper adds a savory and slightly spicy kick to the dish. It's a great option for those who prefer a more savory kugel or for those who want to balance out a sweet main course.
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Savory Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Large Onion, Unsalted Butter, Kosher Salt, Black
Another savory kugel option, this recipe calls for the addition of bacon for a smoky and delicious twist. The bacon is cooked until crispy and then mixed in with the noodles and cottage cheese. It's a hearty and filling dish that is sure to satisfy.
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Creamy Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Unsalted Butter, Raisins, Eggs
If you love creamy and indulgent dishes, this kugel is for you. Made with heavy cream, cream cheese, and eggs, it's like a decadent pasta dish in casserole form. Serve it as a side dish or add some protein like chicken or salmon to turn it into a main course.
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Spinach Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Full Fat Sour Cream, Xtra Large Eggs, Extra Virgin
This kugel is a great option for those who want to incorporate some greens into their meal. Sautéed spinach is mixed in with the noodles and cottage cheese, giving it a boost of nutrients and a beautiful green color. It's a great way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters.
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Cream Cheese Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Margarine, Eggs, Milk, Sugar, Salt
If you love cream cheese, this kugel is a must-try. It uses a whole block of cream cheese, giving it a rich and creamy texture. It's like a cross between a cheesecake and a noodle casserole - two of the best things in the world.
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Pastrami Ramen Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Rendered Chicken Fat, Panko Bread Crumbs, Salt, Boiling
This recipe takes a unique spin on the traditional kugel by using ramen noodles and pastrami. The noodles are cooked in chicken broth and mixed with pastrami and a creamy sauce, giving it a delicious and unexpected flavor. It's a great option for those who want to try something different.
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Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Extra Large Eggs, Half And Half
Not your traditional kugel, this recipe incorporates tender chunks of chicken into a creamy, cheesy noodle casserole. The addition of beer adds a unique depth of flavor to this classic Jewish dish. Perfect for a Shabbat dinner or holiday meal, this noodle kugel is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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My Family’s Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Eggs, Sugar, Cottage Cheese, Unsalted
This family recipe has been passed down for generations and is a beloved tradition in many Jewish households. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, sour cream, and beer to create a rich and creamy kugel that will have your taste buds singing.
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Vanilla Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Vanilla Pudding, Egg Noodles, Cream Cheese, Sugar
This unique take on noodle kugel adds a touch of sweetness with the addition of vanilla extract and beer. The result is a deliciously fragrant and indulgent dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
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Lokshen Kugel (Savory Noodle Kugel)
Main Ingredients: Sour Cream, Cottage Cheese, Unsalted Butter, Eggs
This savory kugel is a staple in many Jewish homes and is often served as a side dish for Shabbat or holiday meals. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, onions, and beer to create a hearty and satisfying dish that will have your family coming back for seconds.
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Peach Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Butter, Lemon, Sugar, Cinnamon, Salt
This sweet and fruity kugel is the perfect way to incorporate summer flavors into your Shabbat or holiday meals. Fresh peaches are combined with chicken, egg noodles, and beer to create a delicious and unique kugel that is sure to be a hit.
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Savory Noodle Kugel with Leeks and Mushrooms
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Vegetable Oil, Leeks, Button Mushrooms, Large
This savory kugel is a delicious twist on the traditional noodle kugel. The addition of leeks and mushrooms adds a depth of flavor to the dish, while beer helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with delicious flavors.
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Vegan Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Noodles, Soft Tofu, Vegan Sour Cream, Agave Nectar
Vegans don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of noodle kugel! This vegan version uses tofu instead of chicken and non-dairy milk instead of sour cream to create a creamy and flavorful dish. The addition of beer adds a unique touch of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
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Throw Together Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Milk, Vanilla, Margarine, Cottage Cheese, Sugar
This easy and quick kugel recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to whip up a last-minute side dish. Simply mix together egg noodles, chicken, beer, and your favorite vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Gluten-Free Jewish Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Eggs, Cream Cheese, Sour Cream, Honey
Those with gluten sensitivities don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of noodle kugel. This gluten-free version uses rice noodles and gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a dish that is just as delicious as the traditional version. The addition of beer adds a unique twist of flavor.
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Cinnamon Apple Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Nonstick Cooking Spray, Wide Noodles, Large Eggs, Large
This sweet and comforting kugel is perfect for a chilly fall evening. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, apples, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The addition of beer adds a unique depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
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Sweet Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Wide Egg Noodles, Large Eggs, Sour Cream
This indulgent kugel is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, vanilla pudding mix, and beer to create a rich and creamy dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
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This Cauliflower Kugel Might Be Better Than Noodle...
Main Ingredients: Large White Onion, Cauliflower, Eggs, Black Pepper, Sea
For a healthier twist on traditional noodle kugel, try this cauliflower kugel recipe. Tender cauliflower is combined with chicken, egg noodles, and beer to create a dish that is just as delicious as the original but with fewer calories.
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My Ultimate Sweet Apple Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Butter, Granny Smith Apples, Cream
This recipe takes the classic apple and noodle kugel to the next level. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, applesauce, and beer to create a dish that is both sweet and savory. The addition of honey adds a touch of sweetness and bourbon adds a unique depth of flavor.
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Grandma Rose's Jewish Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Egg Noodles, Butter, Large Eggs, Cottage Cheese, Sour
This classic kugel recipe has been passed down for generations and is a staple in many Jewish households. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, cottage cheese, and beer to create a dish that is both creamy and satisfying.
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Salt and Pepper Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Garlic Powder, Salt, Pepper, Eggs, Paprika
This simple yet flavorful kugel is perfect for those who prefer a more savory dish. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, black pepper, and sea salt. The addition of beer adds a unique depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.
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Savory Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Large Onion, Unsalted Butter, Kosher Salt, Black
This savory kugel is perfect for those who prefer a more traditional version of the dish. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, sour cream, and beer to create a rich and creamy dish that is perfect for any occasion.
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Creamy Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Wide Egg Noodles, Unsalted Butter, Raisins, Eggs
This rich and indulgent kugel is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, cream cheese, and beer to create a dish that is both creamy and satisfying.
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Spinach Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Full Fat Sour Cream, Xtra Large Eggs, Extra Virgin
This healthy and flavorful kugel is perfect for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, spinach, and beer to create a dish that is both nutritious and delicious.
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Cream Cheese Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Margarine, Eggs, Milk, Sugar, Salt
This rich and creamy kugel is perfect for a special occasion or when you want to treat yourself. Tender egg noodles are combined with chicken, cream cheese, and beer to create a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying.
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Pastrami Ramen Noodle Kugel
Main Ingredients: Rendered Chicken Fat, Panko Bread Crumbs, Salt, Boiling
This unique twist on noodle kugel incorporates ramen noodles and pastrami for a deliciously savory and comforting dish. The addition of beer adds a unique depth of flavor that will have you coming back for more.
The History of Christmas Kugel
Origin
The word "kugel" actually means "ball" in German, and it is believed that this dish originated in Germany during the 12th century. However, it wasn't until the 17th century that kugel became a popular dish in Eastern European Jewish communities. It was a simple dish made with egg noodles, eggs, and rendered chicken fat, and was often served as a side dish during the Sabbath and other special occasions. It wasn't until the 19th century that kugel began to evolve into the sweet and decadent dish we know and love today.
Evolution
As Jewish communities spread throughout the world, so did the variations of kugel. In the United States, where many Jewish immigrants settled, kugel became a staple for holiday meals, particularly during Christmas. Over time, different ingredients were added to the dish, such as dried fruits, nuts, and spices, giving it a unique and festive twist. Today, there are countless variations of kugel, but the Christmas kugel remains a beloved classic.
Ingredients for Christmas Kugel
Main Ingredients
The main ingredients for Christmas kugel include egg noodles, eggs, and cottage cheese. These ingredients give the dish its signature texture and flavor. Other key ingredients include sugar, butter, and milk, which add sweetness and richness to the dish.
Optional Ingredients
While the main ingredients are essential for making Christmas kugel, there are also many optional ingredients that can be added to make the dish even more delicious. Some popular additions include raisins, dried cranberries, apricots, and almonds. You can also add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and cozy holiday flavor.
How to Make Christmas Kugel
Now that you know the history and ingredients of Christmas kugel, it's time to make your own! Here is a simple and delicious recipe to follow:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Cook 8 ounces of egg noodles according to package instructions and drain.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles with 4 beaten eggs, 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1/2 cup of milk. Add in any optional ingredients like dried fruits and nuts.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy your delicious Christmas kugel!
In conclusion, Christmas kugel is a beloved holiday dish with a rich history and delicious flavors. It's the perfect addition to any holiday meal and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not carry on the tradition and make your own Christmas kugel this holiday season? Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
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