By Shelby Morrison
The Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, is right around the corner. This also means good eats are near. To get in the spirit of celebrating the Jewish New Year, consider adding some special, limited-time-only items to your menu. Not only will your Jewish customers be pleasantly surprised, but you may expose non-Jewish customers to some new and delicious food. These spins on traditional Rosh Hashanah foods below can be added to your menu to celebrate the Jewish New Year.
Pomegranate chicken
This fruit made up of tiny little seeds is traditionally eaten on Rosh Hashanah. It is said to have 613 seeds, which is the same number of mitzvoh (good deeds) found in the Torah. A delicious way to incorporate pomegranates into your Rosh Hashanah meal is to make pomegranate chicken. You can use pomegranate molasses as a glaze, and top the finished dish with fresh pomegranate seeds.
Challah bread pudding/French toast
Challah are typically braided, but on Rosh Hashanah, they are round. This is to symbolize the circle of life. Challah is a sweet bread made with eggs and can be used in sweet or savoury dishes. Consider swapping out your regular bread for challah during this time. It will add a lovely sweetness to the dish, while also remaining festive. This round challah can also be used to make bread pudding or French toast because of its sweetness and softness.
Apples and honey
Apples and honey are eaten on this holiday to represent a sweet new year. Cooking and baking with honey is a healthier alternative to regular sugar and adds depth to the dish. Whether you make an apple tart with honey drizzle, or a salad incorporating apples and a honey dressing, adding an apple-and-honey dish to your menu will definitely impress your Jewish (and non-Jewish) guests.
Matzo ball soup
Just like any good, classic Jewish meal, Matzo Ball soup is a staple. Whether you serve some sort of chicken soup all year around or just during this holiday, your guests are sure to love this comfort food.
Whether you celebrate Rosh Hashanah or not, it is definitely an excuse to enjoy some fabulous, traditional foods. Happy New Year!
