As the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection, renewal, and feasting with family and friends. To kick off this special holiday, we’ve curated 18 delicious recipes that incorporate traditional flavors and ingredients, such as honey, apples, and pomegranates. From sweet treats like Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots and Lekach (Honey Cake) to savory dishes like Pomegranate Braised Brisket and Spiced Honey-Glazed Salmon, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of Rosh Hashanah recipes that combine classic flavors with creative twists. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main course or a sweet treat to end the meal on a high note, we’ve got you covered.
Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
Transform ordinary carrots into a delightful side dish with this simple recipe that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the earthy flavor of roasted carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large or 8-10 small carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp pure honey
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. If using apple cider vinegar, drizzle over the carrots during the last 2 minutes of roasting.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple and Honey Challah
Elevate your brunch game with this sweet and savory challah recipe infused with the warmth of apple and honey. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped apples (Granny Smith or Fuji)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
3. Add warm water, melted butter, egg, chopped apples, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough, shape into a braid or round loaf, and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pomegranate Braised Brisket
Rich and flavorful, this Pomegranate Braised Brisket is a perfect dish for special occasions or everyday meals. The sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze adds a depth of flavor to the tender brisket.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and cumin.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the brisket from the pot and add the pomegranate juice, honey, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Return the brisket to the pot and cover with a lid. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
6. Remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Raisins
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Raisins Recipe
Summary: This classic Jewish dessert is a comforting and sweet treat, perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the warmth of noodles with the natural sweetness of raisins.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Add melted butter, eggs, and raisins to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
5. Add cooked noodles to the mixture and stir until coated.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Round Raisin-studded Challah
This classic Jewish bread gets a sweet twist with the addition of plump raisins throughout its soft, fluffy dough. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this round challah is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place raisins throughout the dough and shape into a round loaf.
5. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tzimmes with Sweet Potatoes and Prunes
This traditional Jewish stew is a delightful combination of sweet potatoes, prunes, and spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, prunes, onion, garlic, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Matzo Ball Soup with Fresh Dill
This classic Jewish soup is a staple of Passover and beyond, with tender matzo balls floating in a flavorful chicken broth infused with fresh dill. This recipe adds a bright and refreshing twist to the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup matzo meal
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, matzo meal, salt, and pepper.
3. Gradually add vegetable oil, mixing until a sticky dough forms.
4. Bring chicken broth to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer while making matzo balls.
5. Shape dough into small balls (about 1 inch) and gently place in boiling broth.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until matzo balls are cooked through.
7. Add chopped fresh dill, carrots, and celery to the soup. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Roasted Chicken with Apples and Onions
This hearty dish combines the comfort of roasted chicken with the natural sweetness of apples and onions, creating a perfect autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2-3 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss together sliced apples and onions, drizzling with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 30 minutes.
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and add it to the baking sheet with the apple-onion mixture. Continue roasting for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes
Date and Walnut Stuffed Apples
This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of apples with the rich flavors of dates and walnuts, perfect for a cozy evening treat. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be enjoying these delicious stuffed apples in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 apples (Granny Smith or other firm variety)
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Core the apples, leaving about 1/2 inch at the bottom.
3. In a bowl, mix together dates, walnuts, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Stuff each apple with the date-walnut mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lekach (Honey Cake)
A classic Jewish honey cake that’s perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, sugar, and oil until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in baking powder and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beet and Citrus Salad with Honey Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of beets and citrus with the warmth of honey, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or main course. The natural sweetness of the beets pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the citrus, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Roast the beets in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Peel the roasted beets and slice into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine the beet wedges, orange and grapefruit segments.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and apple cider vinegar to make the dressing.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (roasting time)
Gefilte Fish with Horseradish Sauce
Gefilte fish, a traditional Jewish dish, gets a boost of flavor from a tangy horseradish sauce. This recipe is a simple and delicious twist on the classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into small pieces
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Horseradish Sauce (recipe below)
Gefilte Fish:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until the mixture is uniform.
4. Add breadcrumbs and mix until just combined.
5. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
6. Shape each portion into a patty.
7. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Horseradish Sauce:
1. Mix together 1/2 cup prepared horseradish, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon sugar.
2. Serve sauce chilled, alongside cooked gefilte fish.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Stuffed Cabbage
Sweet and Sour Stuffed Cabbage Recipe
A twist on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, this recipe combines the classic flavors of ground meat and rice with a tangy sweet and sour sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet and Sour Sauce (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Remove the tough outer leaves from the cabbage head and blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and let cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Carefully separate the cooled cabbage leaves and place about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture onto the center of each leaf.
5. Roll the leaves tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining cabbage and filling.
6. Pour Sweet and Sour Sauce over the stuffed cabbage rolls and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Sweet and Sour Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Use immediately or store in refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Kugel
This kugel combines the natural sweetness of caramelized onions and mushrooms with the comforting warmth of egg noodles, perfect for a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions and mushrooms in olive oil over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked noodles, caramelized onion mixture, and beaten eggs. Mix well.
6. Top with grated cheese and chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Rosh Hashanah Honey Cookies
Celebrate the Jewish New Year with these soft, chewy cookies infused with the sweetness of honey and a hint of spice. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add honey and beat until combined.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Quince and Apple Compote
Sweet and tangy, this quince and apple compote is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite cheeses or yogurt parfaits. Made with the tart flavor of quince and the crunch of apples, it’s a delightful autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups quince fruit, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine quince, apple, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the fruit is tender and the mixture is syrupy (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the compote through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetable Medley
This vibrant medley of roasted root vegetables brings together a variety of colors and flavors, perfect for a side dish or main course. With a hint of sweetness from the carrots and parsnips, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the carrots, parsnips, bell pepper, and sweet potato.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the vegetable mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spiced Honey-Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and savory recipe! The perfect blend of spices, honey, and lemon creates a flavorful glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Ring in the new year with these delicious Rosh Hashanah recipes! From sweet treats like honey glazed roasted carrots and date and walnut stuffed apples, to savory dishes like pomegranate braised brisket and tzimmes with sweet potatoes and prunes, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a classic challah or kugel, or go bold with caramelized onion and mushroom kugel or spiced honey-glazed salmon. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a twist on tradition, these recipes are sure to make your Rosh Hashanah celebration a sweet one.
