FAQ about Traditional Hamantaschen Purim Cookie

• Hamantaschen are traditional cookies eaten during the Jewish holiday, Purim. They consist of pockets of dough filled with poppy seeds or a variety of other fillings. The three corners of the hamantashen are thought to represent the three-cornered hat worn by Haman, the villain of the Purim story.

Why do we eat hamantaschen cookies on Purim?

• There are many different theories on the origin of hamantaschen. Some say that they represent Haman's ears while others think they represent his tri-cornered hat or even his pockets. No matter what version of the story is true, one thing remains the same: Hamantashen have long served as a reminder of the great victory over the villain Haman. These sweet cookies are more than just party treats; they're representative of the meaning of Purim itself.

What is the meaning of hamantaschen?

• The name comes from Haman, the villain in the Purim story and "tash", the Yiddish word for pocket. The original German name of the cookies refers to poppy seeds (mohn), giving a literal meaning of "poppy seed pockets".

When is Purim?

• The festival of Purim is usually celebrated on March 14, which is the day that Haman chose for the Jewish massacre.

How are hamantashen made?

• Hamantashen are made by folding small amounts of poppy seeds, preserves, chocolate or other filling in a circular piece of shortbread cookie dough. This creates a pocket of filling in a three-cornered cookie.