The Nine Days Menu: Delicious Meat-Free Dinners

What is this?

The Nine Days are a period of mourning observed by many Jews in the days leading up to Tisha B’Av, a day commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. During this time, it is customary to refrain from eating meat and drinking wine as a sign of mourning. While this might seem challenging, it can also be an opportunity to explore a variety of delicious and satisfying meat-free meals. Here, we present some delightful Nine Days recipes that are kosher, parve, or dairy, to help you enjoy this meaningful period.

Understanding the Custom

According to Jewish law, the Nine Days begin on Rosh Chodesh Av and last until the fast of Tisha B’Av. During this time, it is traditional to avoid meat and wine, except on Shabbat or for a seudat mitzvah (a celebratory meal for a mitzvah, such as a brit milah). This custom helps us focus on spiritual reflection and mourning. But worry not, as there are plenty of delicious alternatives to enjoy!

Nine Days Recipe Ideas

Dairy Delights

• Spinach and Cheese Lasagna: Layers of fresh spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese make this dish a family favorite.
• Cheese Blintzes: These thin pancakes filled with sweet cheese are perfect for a light dinner.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: A creamy pasta dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.

Parve Pleasures

• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Toss your favorite vegetables with soy sauce and serve over rice or noodles for a quick meal.
• Chickpea Salad: A hearty mix of chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.
• Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for any night of the Nine Days.

Blessings for Dairy and Parve Meals

When enjoying these meals, remember to recite the appropriate blessings. For example, before eating bread, say the Hamotzi blessing:

Hebrew: ברוך אתה ה’ אלוהינו מלך העולם המוציא לחם מן הארץ

Transliteration: Baruch Atah Adonai Eloheinu Melech Ha’olam, Hamotzi Lechem Min Ha’aretz.

English Translation: Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who brings forth bread from the earth.

Conclusion

The Nine Days are a special time for reflection and connection to our history. By embracing the tradition of meat-free meals, we can honor the spirit of the period while enjoying a variety of delicious dishes. We hope these Nine Days recipes inspire you to create memorable meals and find joy in this meaningful observance.