The Nine Days Menu: Delicious Meat-Free Dinners

Does giving up meat for the Nine Days mean nine days of boring food? Absolutely not. The Nine Days before Tisha B'Av are a time of mourning when meat and wine are avoided (except on Shabbat), but this restriction is actually an invitation to explore the wonderful world of dairy, fish, and vegetarian cooking. Here are dinner ideas that will make your Nine Days meals something to look forward to.

Why No Meat?

The custom of avoiding meat during the Nine Days is connected to mourning for the destruction of the Temple. Meat and wine were central to the Temple service (animal offerings and wine libations), so abstaining from them during this period of mourning for the Temple's loss is a meaningful way to express grief. Additionally, meat and wine are associated with festive meals, and the Nine Days are not a festive time.

Pasta and Italian-Inspired Dishes

Cheese lasagna: Layers of pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. Add sauteed spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Penne alla vodka: A creamy tomato sauce with a touch of cream, tossed with penne. Rich, satisfying, and easy to make.

Eggplant parmesan: Breaded and fried eggplant slices layered with marinara and melted mozzarella. A hearty meat-free classic.

Mushroom risotto: Creamy arborio rice cooked with sauteed mushrooms, onions, and Parmesan cheese. Comfort food at its finest.

Fish Dishes

Baked salmon: Simple, elegant, and delicious. Season with lemon, dill, and garlic, and bake until flaky. Serve with roasted vegetables or rice.

Fish tacos: Grilled or baked white fish in soft tortillas with cabbage slaw, avocado, and a lime-cilantro dressing. Light, fresh, and fun.

Tuna steaks: Seared tuna steaks with a sesame crust, served with Asian-style vegetables and rice.

Fish cakes: Made from canned tuna or salmon, mixed with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, then pan-fried until golden. Kids love them.

Dairy Mains

Quiche: A versatile dish that works with almost any combination of cheese, vegetables, and herbs. Spinach and feta, broccoli and cheddar, or caramelized onion and Gruyere are all excellent options.

Mac and cheese: The ultimate comfort food. Make it from scratch with a bechamel sauce and sharp cheddar for best results. Add breadcrumbs on top and bake until golden.

Pizza: Homemade pizza night is a family favorite. Let everyone choose their own toppings. From classic margherita to creative combinations, pizza is always a crowd-pleaser.

Cheese blintzes: Crepes filled with sweetened farmer cheese, pan-fried, and served with sour cream or fruit compote.

Vegetable-Forward Dishes

Stuffed peppers: Fill bell peppers with a mixture of rice, beans, corn, tomatoes, and cheese. Bake until the peppers are tender.

Vegetable stir-fry: A colorful mix of vegetables in a savory sauce over rice or noodles. Quick, healthy, and customizable.

Shakshuka: Eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce, served with crusty bread for dipping. A Sephardic favorite that works for dinner as well as breakfast.

Falafel: Crispy chickpea fritters in pita with salad, tahini, and pickles. A satisfying meal that everyone loves.

Soups

Tomato soup: Creamy tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich is a classic Nine Days dinner.

Butternut squash soup: Sweet, creamy, and comforting. Top with a swirl of sour cream and toasted seeds.

Mushroom barley soup: Hearty and filling, perfect for cooler evenings.

Planning Tips

Plan your Nine Days menu in advance so you are not scrambling each night. Stock up on dairy products, eggs, fish, and fresh vegetables before the Nine Days begin. Prepare some items in advance, like lasagna or soup, that can be refrigerated or frozen and reheated. Remember that Shabbat during the Nine Days is a full Shabbat meal with meat and wine, so plan accordingly for the transition.

For more on this period, see our guides to the Three Weeks and Nine Days, Tisha B'Av, and the Jewish holiday cycle.