As the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah is a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration. For many families, this holiday marks the start of a new cycle of life, filled with hope and promise. One of the most meaningful ways to mark this occasion is by gathering around the table to share in traditional dishes and flavors that evoke warmth, comfort, and joy.
In this article, we’re excited to share 18 mouthwatering Rosh Hashanah recipes that will transport your taste buds to a world of sweet and savory delights. From classic honey-glazed roast chicken to innovative quinoa-stuffed peppers, each dish is carefully crafted to delight the senses and bring people together around the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Honey Glazed Roast Chicken
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this show-stopping roast chicken, perfectly glazed with a sticky honey mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and brush the honey glaze all over the bird, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apple and Honey Challah
Elevate your bread game with this scrumptious Apple and Honey Challah recipe, perfect for a cozy brunch or snack time. The combination of tender apples, honey, and flaky challah dough is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup 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 large egg
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Roll out the dough to a 12×9-inch rectangle. Spread apples and honey evenly over the center third of the dough.
6. Fold the sides and roll the dough into a tight log shape; place seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tzimmes with Carrots and Sweet Potatoes
Tzimmes is a classic Jewish stew that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots and sweet potatoes with the savory flavors of beef broth and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4-5 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine sweet potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour in beef broth, tomato paste, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Cover the pot and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven and stir in honey (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Round Raisin-studded Challah
Create a sweet and indulgent challah with the added delight of round raisins, perfect for a special occasion or breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup round raisins
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add warm milk and mix until dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs and melted butter.
4. Knead the dough on floured surface for 10 minutes.
5. Place raisins in the dough and knead until well distributed.
6. Form into a round loaf and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Matzo Ball Soup
Matzo ball soup, a staple of Jewish cuisine, is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields a delicious and hearty soup with tender matzo balls and a rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, melted butter, eggs, salt, and pepper.
3. Drop the mixture by tablespoonfuls into boiling water and cook for 20-25 minutes or until matzo balls are cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, and garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add cooked matzo balls to the soup and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pomegranate Braised Brisket
This recipe combines the rich flavors of braised brisket with the sweet and tangy taste of pomegranate, resulting in a tender and juicy dish perfect for special occasions.
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. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and cumin to the pot; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the pomegranate juice and honey to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Return the brisket to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 3-4 hours, or until tender.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Sweet Noodle Kugel
This sweet and comforting noodle kugel is a staple of Jewish cuisine, perfect for holidays and everyday treats. With its creamy custard-like filling and crispy noodle topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
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
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, flour, and salt. Add melted butter, beaten eggs, and milk; mix until smooth.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the wet ingredients; stir until noodles are well coated.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Honey Garlic Salmon
Roasted Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe
Discover the sweet and savory combination of roasted honey garlic salmon that’s perfect for a quick and impressive dinner.
Ingredients:
• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together honey and garlic.
5. Brush the honey-garlic mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serves: 4
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Apple Cake with Cinnamon Glaze
Moist and flavorful apple cake topped with a sweet and sticky cinnamon glaze, perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
– Cinnamon glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and diced apples; mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. While cake is still warm, prepare cinnamon glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon.
7. Drizzle glaze over warm cake; serve and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Beet and Pomegranate Salad
A sweet and earthy combination of beets, pomegranate, and mixed greens makes for a refreshing and healthy salad perfect for any occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare and can be served as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (dried)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange mixed greens on a platter. Top with beet wedges, pomegranate arils, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
A classic Eastern European dish, these tender cabbage rolls are filled with a savory mixture of ground pork and rice, and simmered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage head for 5-7 minutes, or until leaves are slightly softened.
3. Remove cabbage from water and let it cool. Cut out the thick center rib and separate the leaves.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Roll up the leaves tightly and secure with toothpicks or staples.
7. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the rolls on all sides.
8. Transfer rolls to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date and Walnut Rugelach
These flaky pastry triangles are filled with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a delightful addition to any gathering. With the natural sweetness of dates and the crunch of walnuts, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh dates
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together dates, walnuts, honey, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Spoon the date mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush with egg wash and cut into triangles.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lekach (Honey Cake)
A traditional Jewish honey cake recipe that’s perfect for Rosh Hashanah or any special occasion. This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of honey, making it a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix 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.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Tart
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory tart that combines the depth of caramelized onions and mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook onions and mushrooms over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the cooked onion and mushroom mixture on the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Sprinkle cheese evenly over the top.
6. Fold the crust edges up to form a border and brush with beaten egg for glaze.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers. Quinoa adds protein and fiber to the dish, while the bell peppers provide a sweet and crunchy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup black beans, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked quinoa mixture, followed by mashed black beans and shredded cheese.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Root Vegetables with Honey
Roasted Root Vegetables with Honey: A Sweet and Savory Twist
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of root vegetables by roasting them to perfection, then finishing them off with a drizzle of honey. The result is a deliciously balanced side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 parsnips, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato with the olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and drizzle with honey. Toss to coat.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gefilte Fish with Horseradish
A traditional Jewish dish, gefilte fish is a flavorful and aromatic delight. This recipe combines the classic filling with a kick of spicy horseradish for an added depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), boned and skinned
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons horseradish sauce
– Water, for poaching
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine fish, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Process until smooth.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size.
4. Poach each portion in simmering water for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from water and let cool slightly.
6. Serve with a dollop of horseradish sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spiced Apple Cider
Warm up with a cup of Spiced Apple Cider, perfect for chilly fall days or cozying up by the fireplace.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Remove from heat and stir in nutmeg and salt.
5. If desired, add brown sugar and stir until dissolved.
6. Strain the cider into mugs or a large pitcher.
7. Serve warm, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is just around the corner! To help you celebrate with delicious eats, we’ve gathered 18 traditional recipes that are sure to impress. From sweet treats like Apple Cake with Cinnamon Glaze and Date and Walnut Rugelach, to savory dishes like Pomegranate Braised Brisket and Roasted Root Vegetables with Honey, these recipes offer a taste of tradition. Plus, don’t miss the honey-glazed goodness of our Honey Glazed Roast Chicken or the sweet and satisfying Apple and Honey Challah. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got you covered!
