Are you looking for delicious and traditional Jewish dishes to add some flavor to your Shabbat table or holiday celebration? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 mouth-watering kosher recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods like Matzo Ball Soup and Homemade Challah Bread, to flavorful twists on traditional dishes like Slow-Cooked Brisket with Root Vegetables and Crispy Potato Latkes with Applesauce, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a seasoned kosher cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight your family and friends. And the best part? They’re all made with love and care, just like Bubbe used to make!
Stay tuned for the rest of our article, where we’ll share the complete recipe list and give you some helpful tips and tricks for making each dish a success.
Classic Matzo Ball Soup
A comforting and traditional Jewish soup, matzo ball soup is a staple of many family gatherings and holiday meals. This classic recipe uses simple ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 matzo balls (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Meanwhile, prepare matzo balls according to package instructions or make homemade matzo balls (see below).
4. Once the soup has cooked for 20 minutes, add the matzo balls and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Challah Bread
Challah bread is a traditional Jewish bread known for its rich flavor, tender crumb, and beautiful braided appearance. With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious and visually appealing loaf in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add vegetable oil, beaten egg, and salt to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the dough into three equal strands and braid. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow-Cooked Brisket with Root Vegetables
Transform tender brisket and flavorful root vegetables into a hearty, comforting meal with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Season brisket with salt, black pepper, and thyme.
3. In the slow cooker, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, parsnips, and red bell pepper.
4. Place seasoned brisket on top of vegetables in the slow cooker.
5. Pour beef broth and tomato paste over the brisket.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
7. Serve hot with root vegetables and juices.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Crispy Potato Latkes with Applesauce
A classic Hanukkah treat gets a delicious twist! These crispy potato latkes are the perfect accompaniment to a sweet and tangy applesauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Applesauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. Grate the potatoes and onion using a box grater or food processor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated potatoes, chopped onion, eggs, flour, and salt. Mix well to combine.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the potato mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain latkes on paper towels and serve hot with applesauce.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total cooking time.
Fluffy Cheese Blintzes with Berry Compote
Treat your taste buds to a delightful combination of creamy cheese-filled blintzes and sweet-tart berry compote. This recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
For the Blintzes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Berry Compote:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, and salt.
2. Add melted butter and mix until smooth.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour in batter to form a thin crepe.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then flip and cook for another minute.
6. In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese with sugar until smooth.
7. Place 1 tablespoon of the mixture onto the center of each crepe.
8. Fold the crepe in half to enclose filling.
9. Serve with berry compote: combine mixed berries, honey, and lemon juice in a bowl.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Kugel with Caramelized Onions
Savory Kugel with Caramelized Onions Recipe
This hearty kugel is a twist on the classic Jewish dish, featuring caramelized onions and a savory mixture of eggs, cheese, and herbs. It’s perfect for a brunch or dinner gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 large eggs
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup matzo meal or all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked onion mixture to the egg mixture and stir well.
5. Pour the kugel mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle matzo meal or flour evenly over the top of the kugel.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlicky Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this garlicky, zesty, and aromatic recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Tzimmes with Honey Glaze
A traditional Jewish stew gets a sweet and tangy twist with the addition of honey glaze, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef 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 saucepan, combine carrot, potato, onion, and garlic.
3. Pour in beef broth, honey, apple cider vinegar, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Crunchy Gefilte Fish with Horseradish Sauce
A classic Jewish dish gets a crunchy twist! This recipe combines the traditional gefilte fish with a spicy kick from horseradish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Horseradish sauce for serving (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together fish fillets, breadcrumbs, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Shape mixture into patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and lightly browned.
7. Serve with horseradish sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Warm Lentil Soup with Fresh Dill
Warm Lentil Soup with Fresh Dill: A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly day. This recipe showcases the simplicity of lentils, combined with the brightness of fresh dill, to create a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh dill, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in chopped fresh dill just before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Golden Roasted Vegetable Medley
Elevate your meal with this vibrant medley of roasted vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of each vegetable, caramelized to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato, bell peppers, red onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spiced Honey Cake with Walnuts
This moist and flavorful cake combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of honey, topped with crunchy walnuts for added texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and honey until light and fluffy. Beat in milk and eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped walnuts.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Quinoa Salad with Pomegranate Seeds
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweetness of pomegranate seeds, all wrapped up in a fragrant herb bundle. Perfect as a light and refreshing side dish or a nutritious meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, mint, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Stir in pomegranate seeds and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rich Chocolate Babka Swirl Bread
This decadent bread combines the richness of chocolate with the flaky layers of traditional babka, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. With a simple dough and a rich chocolate filling, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and sugar. Add melted butter, egg, and mix until smooth.
3. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over low heat. Spread evenly over half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zesty Israeli Salad with Tahini Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Israel with a creamy and zesty tahini dressing, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tahini dressing (recipe below)
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 minced clove of garlic
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Pour the tahini dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, ready in just 10 minutes.
Flaky Spinach and Cheese Bourekas
These tender and flavorful pastry rolls are a delicious twist on traditional bourekas. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Mix chopped spinach and shredded mozzarella cheese together in a bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Fold pastry in half lengthwise, pressing gently to seal. Cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
5. Place bourekas on prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Rugelach with Apricot Jam
Rugelach is a classic Jewish pastry that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. This recipe combines the flaky, buttery goodness of rugelach dough with the sweet and tangy flavor of apricot jam.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup apricot jam
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread apricot jam evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Sprinkle granulated sugar and salt over the jam.
5. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush tops with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Eggplant Dip with Pita Chips
Elevate your snack game with this rich and flavorful dip that’s perfect for a quick gathering or as a tasty addition to your next BBQ. Smoky eggplant, combined with garlic, lemon, and herbs, creates a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
– Pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
5. Let cool, then scoop out the flesh and blend with Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and parsley/cilantro until smooth.
6. Serve warm with pita chips.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 18 delicious kosher recipes perfect for every occasion. From classic matzo ball soup to slow-cooked brisket, and from crispy potato latkes to rich chocolate babka swirl bread, there’s something for everyone. Other mouth-watering dishes include fluffy cheese blintzes, savory kugel, garlicky roasted chicken, sweet and tangy tzimmes, and more. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just looking for a tasty meal, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy!
