Purim 2020 was, for many of us, the last event attended before the Pandemic stepped in and changed the way we do everything. Now, as Purim approaches once again, Mishloach Manot is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday while also remaining socially distant.

Mishloach Manot, if you’re unfamiliar, is the giving of food or drink to celebrate the holiday of Purim — a mitzvah that comes directly from The Book of Esther. There are a few rules when giving Mishloach Manot, but mainly it is asked that the gift be composed of two different types of ready-to-eat food or drink. If you’re looking for a few ideas to make your Purim celebrations something special, look to Mishloach Manot and give to your loved ones this holiday.

Here, we’ve rounded up some great Mishloach Manot ideas to help get your own inspiration started:

Mishloach Manot For:

The Sports Lover: Jamie Geller is always blogging about great Kosher recipes, but she also has some fabulous Mishloach Manot ideas! Check out this blog for eight creative sports-themed baskets. From chips and salsa to hot dogs or homemade pretzels and cheese sauce, any sports fan would love to get one of these baskets.

 

Teachers: This idea comes from Kosher.com and they have lots of fun Mishloach Manot ideas in their roundup – including one for celebrating teachers. If you’ve got a teacher or two you’d like to honor this Purim, try a basket with some coffee, some tea and chocolate inside a nice little travel mug. Add an apple (of course) and it’s a great gift for any teacher.

 

Healthier Choices: If you’re trying to avoid the usual sugary snacks and salt-filled treats, you can still give a great Mishloach Manot gift while staying on the healthy side. As Chabad.org offers, try a basket filled with some whole-wheat hamantaschen, a small jar of honey, some fruit or veggies or even a veggie platter with some homemade dressing.

 

Creatives: Here is another fabulous idea from Jamie Geller – Mishloach Manot in a jar! Simply stock up on some inexpensive mason jars and fill them with themed goodies. Try a salad-in-a-jar, a breakfast package with yogurt and granola or try some pickled veggies, jams and more. Add a cute label and you’ve got a perfect Mishloach Manot for your friends or family.

 

Home Chefs: If you are handy in the kitchen, then Aish has some fabulous recipes to go in your Mishloach Manot baskets. Try making some homemade basil pesto or hot pepper salad. Or go for cold sesame noodles or even a barley salad with cumin and mint. There several really tasty ideas here, so pick a couple and make a truly homemade (and gourmet) gift.

Want to learn about other Purim Mitzvot? Contact us to reach one of our educators!