Planning a special occasion? Whether it’s a holiday, a life milestone, or just a reason to gather with loved ones, food plays a central role in making the day truly memorable. When it comes to kosher cuisine, there are countless options that are both delicious and adherent to Jewish dietary laws. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouth-watering recipes perfect for special occasions, from classic matzo ball soup to sweet noodle kugel with raisins.
From comforting, slow-cooked beef brisket with red wine to crispy potato latkes with applesauce, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings. Whether you’re looking for a traditional challah bread or a creative twist on a classic dish like honey-glazed roasted carrots, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of kosher cuisine, sharing recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for your next special occasion. From soups and salads to main courses and desserts, these 19 recipes will provide endless inspiration for any Jewish holiday or celebration.
Classic Matzo Ball Soup
This comforting soup has been a staple of Jewish cuisine for generations, and its simplicity is part of its enduring charm. Made with matzo balls, vegetables, and chicken broth, it’s a perfect remedy for a cold winter day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup matzo meal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 matzo balls (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Prepare the matzo balls according to package instructions or recipe.
4. Add the matzo balls to the soup and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket with Red Wine
Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket with Red Wine: A Hearty, Flavorful Dish Perfect for Weeknight Dinners or Special Occasions
This classic slow-cooked beef brisket recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with the tender meat infused with rich flavors from red wine and aromatics. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low heat.
2. Season the brisket with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, brown the brisket on both sides over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion to the skillet and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the brisket and onions to the slow cooker. Add red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Cover and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Crispy Potato Latkes with Applesauce
Start your Hanukkah celebration with a classic Jewish dish: crispy potato latkes served with creamy applesauce. This recipe yields a batch of golden-brown, crunchy latkes that pair perfectly with the sweet and tangy applesauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Applesauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes using a box grater.
2. In a bowl, combine the grated potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the beaten eggs to the potato mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Heat 1/2 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the oil. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the latkes are golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve hot with applesauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Traditional Challah Bread
This classic Jewish bread is a staple of Shabbat and holiday meals, known for its sweet, soft, and braided loaves. This recipe yields two large challahs or four smaller ones.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar.
2. Add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs and melted butter until smooth.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into two or four pieces, depending on desired loaf size.
7. Shape each piece into a long rope, then braid and tuck ends under.
8. Place loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them.
9. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots
Sweet and savory, these Honey-Glazed Roasted Carrots are a delicious side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate the humble carrot to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey and olive oil until well combined.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the honey glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrot mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Gefilte Fish
Gefilte fish, a classic Jewish dish, typically consists of ground fish and grains, formed into patties or balls and poached. This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make homemade gefilte fish from scratch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or carp), boned and scaled
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup matzo meal
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for poaching
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish, onion, garlic, and matzo meal.
2. Mix well until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
3. Shape into patties or balls, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Poach the gefilte fish for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as horseradish sauce or potato salad.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sweet Noodle Kugel with Raisins
This sweet noodle kugel is a traditional Jewish dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy custard-like filling, soft noodles, and sweet raisins, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz wide egg noodles
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 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 and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, eggs, and raisins to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the sweet mixture and stir until coated.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Savory Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Hearty and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe
These cabbage rolls are packed with a savory blend of rice, ground beef, and spices, making them a perfect main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the cabbage leaves from the head, blanch in boiling water for 5 minutes, then refresh with cold water.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up the cabbage to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the cabbage rolls on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the browned cabbage rolls to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Israeli Salad with Tahini Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Israel with a creamy tahini dressing, perfect for hot summer days or as a light lunch. A simple and flavorful recipe that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, parsley, cilantro)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and chickpeas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Creamy Dairy-Free Mushroom Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a perfect comfort food option for anyone looking for a dairy-free alternative. Made with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a blend of herbs, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup non-dairy creamer (such as soy or almond milk)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, thyme, and paprika. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and non-dairy creamer. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Charoset with Apples and Walnuts
A twist on the traditional Jewish holiday dish, this charoset combines sweet apples and crunchy walnuts for a delightful autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apples, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the mixture is syrupy (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped walnuts and ground cinnamon.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate or freeze for later use.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fluffy Matzo Brei with Cinnamon Sugar
A classic Jewish dish gets a sweet twist with the addition of cinnamon sugar – perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert! This recipe yields a moist and airy matzo brei that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 matzos
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for cinnamon sugar topping)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, soak the matzos in milk for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Drain and tear the matzos into small pieces. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and salt.
4. Add the melted butter, cinnamon, and torn matzo to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the top with granulated sugar and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Braised Short Ribs in Pomegranate Sauce
This rich and flavorful dish is a perfect blend of tender short ribs and sweet pomegranate sauce, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs in batches, then remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add pomegranate juice, red wine, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Crispy Schnitzel with Lemon Wedges
Crispy Schnitzel with Lemon Wedges Recipe
Savor the flavors of Austria with this crispy and delicious schnitzel recipe, served with a tangy lemon wedge on the side.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemons, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the coated chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Warm Cholent with Beans and Barley
Cholent, a hearty and comforting stew, is a staple of Jewish cuisine. This recipe combines the richness of beans and barley with aromatic spices for a satisfying and warming meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pinto or navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 cup pearl barley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the soaked beans, water or broth, barley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 6-8 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Zesty Tomato and Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of tomatoes and cucumbers with a tangy zing, perfect for hot days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tbsp fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Stir in the chopped mint leaves.
4. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the salad.
5. Squeeze the white wine vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Roast Chicken with Garlic and Herbs
This classic recipe yields a juicy, flavorful chicken with a savory aroma. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Tzimmes
Tzimmes is a traditional Jewish stew that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This sweet and tangy version adds a delightful twist to the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or saucepan, combine carrots, onion, garlic, and apricots.
3. Pour in chicken broth, honey, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Hamantaschen with Fruit Filling
Celebrate Purim with these tender, flaky hamantaschen filled with a sweet and tangy fruit filling. This classic Jewish treat is easy to make at home and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Fruit filling of your choice (e.g., raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry jam)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., triangles or circles).
6. Spoon a small amount of fruit filling onto one half of each shape, leaving a 1/2 inch border.
7. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your senses with these 19 delectable kosher recipes, perfect for special occasions! From classic Matzo Ball Soup and Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket to Sweet Noodle Kugel and Braised Short Ribs in Pomegranate Sauce, there’s something for everyone. Try Crispy Potato Latkes with Applesauce, Traditional Challah Bread, or Homemade Gefilte Fish for a taste of tradition. Or, indulge in modern twists like Creamy Dairy-Free Mushroom Soup and Zesty Tomato and Cucumber Salad. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just want to spice up your meals, these recipes are sure to impress.
