Lag Ba'Omer: Bonfire Snacks

Lag Ba'Omer: Bonfire Snacks

You have a fresh new hair cut., the fire is already roarin’, and your uncle is telling you stories about the one time he went to Meron. It’s officially Lag Ba’Omer. The only thing that’s missing is the perfect bonfire snack.

Whether you’re headed to the big community bonfire, creating your own, or just live-streaming the fun in Meron, no Lag Ba’Omer would be complete without campfire treats. So we compiled a list of our favorites. 

What is Lag Ba’Omer?

Lag Ba'Omer, the 33rd day of the Omer count between Passover and Shavuot, is a day filled with joy, tradition, and of course, bonfires. But what is Lag Baomer, and why do Jews gather around flames to celebrate? 

The origins of Lag Ba'Omer are rooted in the commemoration of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, a revered sage and mystic who passed away on this day. R’ Shimon Bar Yochai was the author of the Zohar, and the first to publicly teach the Kabbalah, the mystical dimension of the Torah. 

The bonfires are meant to recognize “the fiery spirits of the mystical teachings”

Major celebrations occur around the world, but none are biggest than the festivities in Meron, a mountain village in northern Israel where R’ Shimon Bar Yochai is buried. Tens of thousands make the trip every year. 

But what are they eating? 

Our Favorite Lag Ba’Omer Bonfire Goodies

S'mores

Obviously. They’re a bonfire classic for good reason. S'mores are gooey, chocolatey, and all around delightful. 

Ingredients:

• Marshmallows
• Pareve chocolate bars (because who doesn’t want hot dogs too?)
• Graham crackers

Instructions:

1. Roast marshmallows over the fire until golden brown.
2. Sandwich the marshmallow and a piece of chocolate between two graham crackers.
3. Let the heat melt the chocolate slightly and enjoy!

Fire-Roasted Potatoes

Simple, hearty, and crowd-pleasing, fire-roasted potatoes can be wrapped in foil and tossed right into the coals.

‍Ingredients:

• Small russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Optional: garlic powder, rosemary, paprika

‍Instructions:

1. Rub potatoes with oil and seasonings.
2. Wrap each potato tightly in foil.
3. Place in the coals for about 45 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Carefully unwrap and serve with a dollop of pareve sour cream or garlic aioli.

Roasted Hot Dogs

For many, Lag Baomer wouldn’t be complete without a hot dog sizzling over an open flame.

Ingredients:

• Hot dogs
• Buns
• Toppings:, mustard, sauerkraut, pickles

Instructions:

1. Spear the hot dog with a skewer and roast over the fire until crispy.
2. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.

Campfire Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a delicious, fun-to-eat addition to any Lag Baomer menu.

Ingredients:

• Corn on the cob (still in the husk)
• Olive oil or margarine
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Soak corn (with husks on) in water for 30 minutes.
2. Place directly on the fire or grill.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
4. Peel back husks, brush with margarine, season, and enjoy.

Sweet Cinnamon Apples

These foil-wrapped apples are the perfect campfire dessert for those who want something warm, sweet, and easy.

Ingredients:

• Apples (any variety)
• Brown sugar
• Cinnamon
• Raisins or nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Core each apple and fill the center with brown sugar, cinnamon, and extras.
2. Wrap tightly in foil.
3. Place near hot coals for 20-30 minutes.
4. Carefully unwrap and serve with a spoon.

Celebrate with Meaning

As you gather around the flames this Lag Ba’Omer, take a moment to reflect on the holiday’s deeper meaning. Whether you're dancing in Meron or toasting marshmallows in your backyard, let the light and warmth of this special day bring joy.