**Traditional Foods Associated with the First Day of Winter**

Winter marks a significant seasonal change in various cultures around the world, often accompanied by specific culinary traditions. Different nations have their unique ways of marking the onset of winter, with food playing a central role in the celebrations. The first day of winter may not have universally recognized food customs, but in some cultures, specific dishes are prepared to commemorate this time. This article explores some of the traditional foods associated with the first day of winter as observed in Jewish and Korean cultures.

### Hanukkah Foods (Jewish Tradition)

In Jewish culture, while there is no particular tradition of celebrating the very first day of winter with specific foods, the period often coincides with Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights. Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish holiday that typically occurs in late November to December, frequently aligning with the early days of winter. The festival commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century B.C., where Jews rose against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt.

#### **Donuts (Sufganiyot)**
One of the most popular foods eaten during Hanukkah are donuts, known as sufganiyot. These are deep-fried doughnuts that are typically filled with jelly, custard, or other sweet fillings, and then topped with powdered sugar. The tradition of eating oily foods is symbolic, commemorating the miracle of the Temple oil that lasted for eight days.

#### **Latkes**
Another traditional Hanukkah food is the latke, a type of potato pancake. Latkes are made from grated potatoes mixed with onion, egg, and flour, then fried in oil. This food also honors the miracle of the oil, integral to the Hanukkah celebration.

### Winter Foods in Korean Tradition

In Korea, the first day of winter is marked more distinctly with specific foods believed to bring health, good fortune, and protection from evil spirits. This celebration can be particularly seen in rural areas where agricultural communities observe age-old traditions linked to farming and seasonal cycles.

#### **Shirutteok**
Shirutteok is a type of Korean rice cake made from glutinous rice and red beans. The red color of the beans is considered auspicious and is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits. Eating shirutteok on the first day of winter is thought to protect individuals and ensure a prosperous season ahead.

#### **Chueotang**
Chueotang is a spicy fish stew that is commonly consumed during the colder months, but it holds particular significance at the start of winter. Made primarily from mudfish that are ground and boiled down into a thick, hearty soup, chueotang is believed to offer strength and vitality during the harsh winter months.

#### **Kimchi and Other Kimchi-Based Soups**
Kimchi, a staple in Korean cuisine, is especially relevant in winter. This fermented vegetable dish, typically made from cabbage and radishes, is rich in vitamins and minerals, and its probiotic qualities are excellent for health. The beginning of winter is a traditional time to start the kimchi fermentation process, known as Kimjang. Additionally, kimchi is often used to make various warming soups, which are perfect for cold weather.

#### **Mussels**
Mussels are another food item traditionally consumed on the first day of winter in Korea. They are believed to be at their most delicious and nutritious during the cold months. Soups and stews made with mussels are common in winter, providing essential nutrients and warmth.

### Conclusion

While the customs differ significantly, the underlying theme is that food serves as a medium for celebration, health, and communal well-being during the transition into winter. In both Jewish and Korean traditions, these foods are not only a treat to the palate but also carry deep cultural and symbolic meanings, marking the season change in a way that ties the past with the present, celebrating heritage and seasonal rhythms.