Rosh Hashanah, or the Jewish New Year, is a holiday to celebrate the happiness and prosperity to come with new beginnings. The traditional food served during Rosh Hashanah is bright, sweet, and uplifting, but unfortunately, not completely vegan. However, some may feel hesitant to swap out the animal-based items, as they all hold spiritual significance. We’ve compiled a list of vegan Rosh Hashanah foods so you can honor your heritage and your ethics. Shana tovahu’metukah! (A good sweet new year, in Hebrew).
7 Vegan Rosh Hashanah Recipes to Celebrate the Jewish New Year
1. Challah
Challah is a must on Rosh Hashanah; however, the traditional recipe is made with eggs and honey. The Challah Hub is a vegan challah delivery service in Los Angeles, and they have perfected the plant-based version of this Jewish staple. Create a simple braided round (as is customary during this holiday) or get inspired by these two outgoing bakers and create a challah sculpture!
Find the recipe here.
2. Apples & Vegan Honey
Apples play an important role within the Jewish faith, dating back to the Garden of Eden. During Rosh Hashanah, the fruit is traditionally dipped in honey. Swap in some Bee Free Honee, and you’re set! This vegan product is actually made with apples, so it’s absolutely holiday-approved!
Find it here.
3. Roasted Carrots
Carrots are another food traditionally eaten during Rosh Hashanah, both due to their natural sweetness and historical significance. Instead of gnawing on raw carrots, elevate the meal with this easy roasted carrot recipe. This is a time when you want to splurge on the multi-colored carrots; they make the meal look impressive, even if the recipe itself is simple.
Find the recipe here.
4. Kale Salad With Caramelized Leek Vinagarette and Carrot Bacon
This salad is a triple threat when it comes to traditional Rosh Hashanah fare. It features leeks, carrots, and pomegranates, which all represent a deeper spiritual meaning, according to biblical scholars. It’s also super satisfying. Prepare it in the largest salad bowl you have; guests are sure to keep coming back for more.
Find the recipe here.
5. Carrot Apple Ginger Soup
Rosh Hashanah is technically considered a fall holiday, making a batch of comforting soup the perfect addition to this celebratory autumn feast. Blend up the apple and carrot flavors of the holiday in this one dish. You could even top with a few pomegranate seeds or fried leeks for yet another nod to the traditional celebration foods.
Find the recipe here.
6. Stuffed Squash
Guests love individual servings, and winter squash makes for the perfect edible vessel for single-serve entrees. These mini squashes are stuffed with mushrooms, blackeyed peas, corn, leeks, and savory fall spices. You’ll want to make these all season long!
Find the recipe here.
7. Vegan Honey Cake
Apples and vegan honey are nice, but let’s be real, that’s a snack, not dessert. To truly end the feast on a sweet note, whip up this vegan mile-high “honey” cake. And yes, it tastes as good as it looks.
Find the recipe here.
