10 Jewish-Inspired Recipes for Rosh Hashanah

The edible symbols of prosperity and abundance in the Jewish New Year fall in line with common Southern food concoctions. Black-eyed peas, a Southern staple and one of the seven simanim, deliciously bridge the two cultures. But it doesn’t stop there: apples and honey for a sweet new year, leeks for a fresh beginning, pomegranates for abundance, and fish for forward motion, all play starring roles at the Rosh Hashanah table while also appearing in Southern kitchens. 

These 10 Jewish inspired recipes from restaurants from across the South fuse Mediterranean and Southern flavors to honor both Jewish Holiday and the comfort of Southern cooking! 

Apple and Fennel Salad and Candied Pecans

This apple and fennel salad, bright with scallions, pecans, and orange juice, offers a sweet and refreshing start to any holiday feast. Ideal for Rosh Hashanah or as a light counterpoint to a rich meal, it’s a versatile dish for any occasion.

Herbed Rice Stuffed Delicata Squash

These vibrant rice-stuffed delicata squash halves, adorned with fresh mint and pomegranate seeds, make a visually appealing and equally delicious appetizer.

Sweet Tahini Borekas

This traditional Jewish dessert from Saba Restaurant in New Orleans features tahini, a Mediterranean staple and delicious flavor profile in any context, sweet or savory. 

Pomegranate and Almond Tabbouleh

Pomegranates hold significant meaning around the world as an emblem of abundance. This Middle Eastern-inspired tabbouleh complements the feast as a symbolic contrast to the heavy main courses. 

Challah

This traditional braided Jewish bread is the inspiration behind the King Cake Challah tradition– a tradition that crosses Jewish culture and the New Orleans Cake and is typically eaten during Mardi Gras.

Halloumi with Pumpkin and Dates

A palatal tour of the Mediterranean is brought to the feast with halloumi, pumpkin, dates, and warm spices. Chefs Michael Shemtov and Jonathan Ory of Butcher and Bee bring the flavors of Israel to the South through this recipe. 

Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

This black-eyed pea hummus offers a twist on a classic dip, blending Southern comfort with Mediterranean flair. It’s a flavorful and symbolic addition to any meal, especially fitting for celebrations emphasizing prosperity and abundance.

Black-Eyed Pea and Collard Green Curry

This curry combines Southern staples—black-eyed peas and collard greens—with aromatic spices, creating a comforting and hearty multicultural dish .

Warm Roasted Beets with Leeks, Toasted Caraway, Apple, and Hard-Boiled Egg

This lively dish combines the sweet, warm, and peppery ingredients of the Mediterranean together for a balanced and earthy side dish.

Gottlieb’s Cinnamon Rugelach

No holiday meal is complete without something sweet. This recipe for traditional rugelach comes from Gottlieb’s Bakery in Savannah, Georgia. Whether for Rosh Hashanah or as a finish to a rich meal, Gottlieb’s cinnamon rugelach is the perfect confection to bring the meal to a delightful close.

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