A ROSH HASHANAH SIDE DISH

Rosh Hashanah refers to the Jewish New Year, a celebration of the creation of the world. It is also a 2-day event for devout followers of Judaism to re-examine their life and repent for any transgressions.

After the prayer service, Jews eat a festive meal. This includes their special Challah bread baked in a round to symbolize the cycle of time. Another important food custom observed on the feast of Rosh Hashanah is eating a piece of apple dipped in honey signifying hope for a sweet year. On the second day, a new fruit not yet eaten this year is eaten. Worldwide, symbolic foods like dates and beets are eaten also, depending on which traditions are observed.

One universally popular holiday side dish is called Potato Kugel, which is like a savory pudding that goes well with poultry and fish dishes. I love it.

POTATO KUGEL

6 potatoes
1 medium onion, grated
2 egg yolks, beaten

4 tablespoons matzoh meal, or cracker meal
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons melted chicken fat or butter
2 egg whites, stiffly beaten

Preheat oven to 375F
Grate peeled potatoes into salted water, and then drain well.
Mix them in a big bowl with the onion, egg yolks, meal, baking powder, salt and pepper, and two tablespoons of fat. When thoroughly mixed, fold in the egg whites carefully.
Pour into a well greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish. Now pour the remaining fat on top.
Bake for 1 hour (mixture is set and lightly browned on top).

You don’t have to be Jewish to enjoy Potato Kugel. Enjoy anytime.

Shana Tovah (Happy New Year).