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Sukkot 2024 has come and gone, and now you’re left with a lovely but slightly wilted set of the Four Kinds . What to do? Tossing them in the garbage feels wrong, right? Halacha (Jewish law) says to treat these holiday heroes with respect, so at the very least, wrap your Four Kinds up before bidding them farewell. But why not have some fun instead? Here’s how you can keep the spirit of Sukkot alive and give your lulav and etrog a second life.
1. Clove-Studded Citrus
Turn your etrog into the most aromatic Havdalah spice box ever. Just poke cloves all over that citrusy delight until it's fully covered. It’s like giving your etrog a fabulous, fragrant armor. Bonus: It’s a great family project and an excellent excuse to start the weekly Havdalah ritual if you haven’t already.
2. Marmalade Madness
Got a sweet tooth? Your etrog is about to become your new best friend. Whip up some etrog jam or marmalade and enjoy that Sukkot flavor for weeks. Feeling adventurous? Etrog-infused vodka is a trend that’s worth a try. Cheers to creativity! And of course, if you’re looking to channel your inner Gordon Ramsay during Sukkot too, you’ll love our deliciously simple Sukkot recipes.
3. From Four Kinds to Chametz Conflagration
When Passover rolls around, burn your Four Kinds with your chametz (leaven). It’s like giving them a fiery farewell party. Sukkot and Passover, united in flames – who knew your Four Kinds had such a dramatic side? It’s like the grand finale of a fireworks show but with more religious significance and less risk of third-degree burns.
4. Myrtle Magic
Don’t let those hadassim (myrtles) go to waste. Use them as fragrant besamim for Havdalah. They’re practically begging to be part of your aromatic end-of- Shabbat ceremony. Your nose will thank you, and your friends will think you've turned into some kind of spice wizard. Bonus points if you can pull off a convincing magic trick while doing it.
5. Palm Branch Perfection
Got a knack for arts & crafts? Transform those palm branches into a nifty basket t o hold your spices. Functional and festive! Or if you’re feeling extra ambitious, make a palm branch hat and start a new fashion trend. You’ll be the talk of the town – or at least the talk of your living room.
6. Tu B’Shevat Treat
Fry up that etrog for a tasty treat on Tu B’Shevat (the New Year for Trees). Citrus never tasted so festive! Who knew that your humble etrog could make such a delicious addition to your Tu B'Shevat celebration? It’s like giving your etrog a second chance at life – as a culinary masterpiece.
7. Sabbath Jelly Joy
Etrog jelly on challah ? Yes, please! It’s a sweet way to bring a little Sukkot into your Shabbat. Spread that etrog goodness on thick and enjoy the taste of holiday nostalgia. Your taste buds will be doing the hora in no time.
8. Matzah-Making Marvel
Use your lulav to feed the fire that bakes matzah for Passover…talk about keeping the holidays connected.
So there you have it, your beloved Four Kinds might be looking a little less, well, kind these days, but instead of giving them a one-way ticket to the garbage can, think of it as an opportunity to unleash your inner domestic diva (or dude). After all, who says getting rid of holiday leftovers can't involve fire, glitter, and citrus-infused vodka?
Just remember, with great power (to repurpose your etrog into a fragrant party favor) comes great responsibility (to not burn down your house while attempting the aforementioned fiery farewell party).
