Rosh Hashanah Seder

In Sephardic and Mizrachi Jewish tradition, Rosh Hashanah is celebrated with special foods, inspired by foods discussed in the Talmud as bringing good luck and blessing in the new year.   In this unusual year as 5780 turns to 5781, this tradition offers us an opportunity to gather together, either around a table or at a distance with song, blessing, reflection, food and stories. As we make our way through this year of pandemic and social unrest we are especially in need of order – seder - to contain us, and ritual to strengthen our connection to community and our tradition. See below for resources to do your own Rosh Hashanah seder for the first or second night, or for lunch on any of the day of the holiday. Enjoy!

There are a number of Rosh Hashanah seders available online, with ideas for special foods and other rituals: these include a family-oriented seder published by the Sixth & I Synagogue in Washington, DC, and a seder full of “punny” food blessings put together by Rabbi Barbara Penzner and Brian Rosman.

You can read more about this tradition in an article on the Reconstructing Judaism website by Barbara and Brian (they also include links to some recipes and other resources). And here are some recipes for a variety of Rosh Hashanah foods:

• Sweet and Spicy Roast Chicken
• Honey and Lemon Glazed Roast Chicken
• Pomegranate Honey Glazed Salmon
• Roasted Beet and Cucumber Salad
• Ottolenghi Middle Eastern Inspired Rosh Hashanah Menu
• Tabbouleh with Apples, Walnuts and Pomegranates
• Plum Galette with Buckwheat Crust
• Apple Cake for Rosh Hashanah
• Apple Cake ( dairy free)

May your new year be sweet, with whatever spice you choose to add!