The Nosher is in many ways a trove of family recipes, innovated, twisted and reimagined from one generation to the next. It’s the next-best thing to having those original recipe cards in hand — annotated with splotches of soup and oil, and extra steps crammed into the margins, so you know it’s good.
With Mother’s Day around the corner, we thought it would be great fun to look at recipes that come from Jewish mothers and grandmothers. The result: A menu as eclectic as our writers, with flavors from all over the world, from Cuba to Uzbekistan, Spain and beyond. Some dishes may be familiar to you from your own mother’s kitchens, others are very personal — edible examples of the writer’s identity and history.
So whether you feel like taking a trip down memory lane with chicken fricassee and salmon patties, or explore new spins on old favorites, like guava rugelach, there’s a Jewish mom-approved recipe here for you.
The Ultimate Chocolate Babka
Chocolate babka so good it could only be your mom’s recipe.
Crockpot Osavo
This Bukharian slow-cooked, hearty rice and brisket is a family favorite that will warm you up even on the coldest winter days.
Matzah Ball Casserole
What could be better than chicken and dumplings? Chicken and matzah balls.
Chicken Fricassee
Try this comfort dish for a taste of nostalgia.
My Mother-In-Law’s Perfect Egg Salad
A nostalgic, comforting, very easy appetizer.
Kichel Cookies
These Jewish bow-tie cookies are light, crispy and will take you right back to your bubbe’s kitchen.
Egg Casserole
Southern cuisine has become intertwined with my family meals and Jewish traditions. This easy, cheesy egg casserole is a Yom Kippur break fast non-negotiable.
Salmon Patties
Serve this old-school Jewish comfort food at your next dinner party or for a casual weeknight dinner.
Sephardic Orange Chiffon Cake
This iconic cake has been made for generations, and while it’s traditionally eaten to break the Yom Kippur fast and on Purim and lifecycle events, you can enjoy it any time.
Yemenite Chicken Soup
This rich, spiced Yemenite chicken soup is a vibrant dish that brings bold flavor and deep tradition to the Jewish table.
Bread Machine Challah
An easy way to make challah every week.
Collard Greens
My Black Jewish childhood tasted like chicken soup and collard greens, a sacred dish steeped in ritual and memories.
Guava Rugelach
Inspired by Jewish communities in Latin America, who transformed traditional dishes through local ingredients, this rugelach dough is enriched with sour cream, and results in a soft, flakey pastry… but pièce de résistance is the guava filling.
Make-Ahead Moroccan Meatballs Recipe
This beloved Moroccan meatball recipe, spiced with homemade ras el hanout, is perfect for Passover, or any time you need a comforting dinner.
Salt and Pepper Noodle Kugel
Guaranteed rave reviews.
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