Well, it’s the Jewish New Year once again and it’s also that time of year for us Jewish folk to let out all that guilt!
The good news is, everyone is usually super sweet to each other during this time (maybe it’s the apples & honey. Or maybe it’s something about that whole “On Rosh Hashanah it is written, on Yom Kippur it is sealed” thing). And, what’s more, the FOOD is incredible! In fact, it’s really pretty difficult to go sit at a table in a Jewish household and be dissatisfied by the food – it’s all SOOOOO good! Bubby doesn’t want you going hungry!
So I’ve thrown together a little list of these wonderful Jewish classics that are perfect for not only Rosh Hashanah, but for Yom Kippur’s huge breaking the fast meal too! Who says you only need dairy and bagels? We can get a little more exciting than that!
Enjoy these fabulous recipes for any Jewish gathering or for ANY occasion regardless of your religion! (Because food knows no religion)!
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To Nosh
Potato Pancake Pillows
When I saw everyone going nuts over thesesilicone pod trays (you can get themhereorheredepending on availability), I just knew I had to re-invent the potato pancake for the IP! And, bubbalah, I am here to report that I did it with success! The end result is something that is so fluffy, potatoey, soft and delightful that it tastes like a latke, knish, dumpling AND potato croquette all in one! Did it in my homemade Applesauce. PEOPLE ARE GOING TO GO CRAZY OVER THESE! (They’re so good, it will cause That Ole Grinch to steal your idea).
Horseradish Deviled Eggs
These babies are DY-NO-MITE! Such a little crowd pleaser because they aren’t only adorable to look at and pop in your mouth, they also taste absolutely AWESOME! Maybe it’s that Gold’s horseradishmixed with the creaminess of some fluffy, mayo-infused egg yolks but this is one that will go fast so make plenty and use these awesomeegg caddies (especially if traveling and taking them to someone else’s house)!
Chopped Liver
The next time someone asks “What am I, CHOPPED LIVAH?!” tell them “OBVIOUSLY!” and that it’s actually a huge compliment. If you’ve ever been to a gathering in a Jewish household, chances are you’ve seen this delicious dip-like spread. Not only is this one a staple in my house, but people tend to fight over the last schmear! It also goes perfect with veggies, crackers, matzoh or Tam Tams.
Soups
Chicken Noodle Soup
Oy Gevalt! My chicken noodle soup is one of my most requested dishes by family and friends alike! It provides a flavor that is so homemade and so comforting, not only will everyone “mmm” and “ahh” while eating it at the table, they’ll also want it when they’re feeling under the weather or curled up on the couch watching Netflix on a chilly evening or snowy day!
Jewish Wedding Soup
What happens when an Italian marries a Jew with an overbearing mother? You get Jewish Wedding Soup! The most perfect Mini Matzo Balls in the most wonderful chicken broth with little pasta stars!
Matzoh Balls
How about some Matzoh Balls to go with that Chicken Noodle Soup to give it a Bar Mitzvah? While there is a debate on the proper way to make a Matzoh Ball (Soft or firm? Sinkers or floaters?), you cannot go wrong with these as they are a little of everything all rolled into one happy ball! I guarantee you’ll just love these little additions!
The Big Meal
Jewish Brisket
One of my most POPULAR dishes, not only is my Jewish Brisket is so tender and full of such a deep, rich, flavorful and sweet & tangy sauce, but it is also SO EASY TO MAKE! I guarantee you that if you make this, the entire table will beg you for the recipe, have seconds and have their eyes on the last piece. But make sure you’re a mensch and offer it to Nana or Pop Pop!
Stuffed Cabbage
My Grandma Lil knew what she was doing when she made this one. Not only is it also one of my most popular recipes because of how incredibly delicious and homemade they taste, but it is a special treat to sit down and make them with a loved one while swapping stories of yore (and maybe a little gossip). A true family legacy, from mine to yours!
Pastrami
A Jewish staple, so many places claim to have the best Pastrami, and I’ve had my share (the roller coaster that is my waistline will tell you so). And if you love NYC’s own Katz’s Delicatessen, you’ll know it’s the GREATEST Pastrami on the face of this earth. Served tender, juicy, full of astounding mouth-watering flavor with every bite, the thing that also sets this Pastrami apart from all the others is that it’s also served hot and thick-cut. And we are going to channel that here and it’ll be much easier than you think!
Chicken Shawarma
Totally unconventional and deviated from a typical Shawarma, it’s the flavor and quality that counts. This is one of my most beloved dishes and it will be a GREAT thing to serve family style at the table with it being devoured within minutes! Don’t forget to grab some pita and tzatziki!
Just A Little Side
Israeli (Pearl) Couscous
Applesauce
The Jewish High Holidays signify a foray into a sweet new year. And you’re going to get exactly that with the most wonderful, homemade (and healthy) applesauce. NOTHING beats it this way. Also goes great with the Potato Pancake Pillows!
Blintz Soufflé
The mother of sweetness, my Blintz Soufflé will not only become the topic of conversation due to how beautiful it looks, it will also possibly be the dish that everyone talks about the most. Guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth and trigger happiness.
Noodle Pudding
This dish is a real sweet one and not like your traditional kugel! It can be served chilled or taken out to set at room temperature and then eaten. It will make for a sweeter side or a dessert and that graham cracker crust at the top is enough to make you want to fiddle on a roof!
Israeli Couscous. Light, fluffy, simple and super satisfying. This couscous is larger and more pasta-like that Moroccan Couscous – I just really love it this way. And it just doesn’t get easier than making this in yourInstant Pot!Serve it hot or cold. Whichever you choose, you cannot go wrong with this wonderful and simple dish.
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So there you have it! Some WONDERFUL goodies to complete any Jewish household. But I’ll let you in on a little secret – just like I’m a Jewish fella who loves Italian and Chinese, YOU don’t need to claim an ounce of Judaism to enjoy these. In fact, you may smack your lips more than once!
L’Shana Tova (that means “Happy New Year” in Hebrew)!
-Jeffrey ?
