When preparing meals for Chanukah celebrations, some families may want to serve kugel. Kugel is a Jewish dish that is similar to a casserole or pudding. Kugel originated more than 800 years ago in southern Germany. Kugel soon became a staple within Jewish households throughout Eastern Europe and eventually the United States.

There are many ways to make kugel. Some recipes feature potatoes, bread, or rice as the main starchy ingredient. Kugel can also be sweet or savory. "Lokshen" (noodle) kugel is perhaps the most traditional. It blends light and airy egg noodles with moist and creamy dairy ingredients. Chanukah celebrants can try this recipe for "Noodle Kugel," courtesy of Taste of Home.

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Noodle Kugel

Serves 15

• 1 package (1 pound) egg noodles
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups sour cream
• 2 cups 4 percent cottage cheese
• Topping
• 3/4 cup cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (about 4 whole crackers)
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted

1. Cook noodles according to package directions; drain. Toss with butter; set aside. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, sour cream, and cottage cheese until well blended. Stir in noodles.

2. Transfer to a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish. Combine the cracker crumbs and butter; sprinkle over the top.

3. Bake, uncovered, at 350°F until a thermometer reads 160°F, 50 to 55 minutes. Let it stand for 10 minutes before cutting. Serve warm or cold.