A Traditional Sephardic Dish for the New Year
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time for symbolic foods that represent blessings, abundance, and prosperity. Among the many delicious dishes on the Sephardic holiday table, this Sweet Potato Squash recipe stands out as a perfect side dish. Its natural sweetness, warm spices, and vibrant colors make it an ideal accompaniment to lamb with couscous, a classic Sephardic pairing.
The Significance of Sweet Potato Squash for Rosh Hashanah
In Sephardic tradition, sweet vegetables like sweet potatoes and squash symbolize a sweet and prosperous year ahead. This dish combines both, creating a flavorful and meaningful addition to your holiday meal.
Sweet Potato Squash Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes and squash with olive oil, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Sweet Potato Squash dish pairs beautifully with:
- Slow-cooked lamb with couscous for a traditional Sephardic meal.
- Roast chicken or beef for a festive family dinner.
- Quinoa or rice for a vegetarian-friendly option.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet Potato Squash Recipe
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
Perfect for Rosh Hashanah – Symbolizes sweetness and abundance.
Naturally Sweet & Spiced – A delicious balance of flavors.
Final Thoughts: A Sweet Start to the New Year
This Sweet Potato Squash recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of Sephardic flavors and traditions. Whether you’re preparing it for Rosh Hashanah or any festive meal, its warm spices and natural sweetness will bring a special touch to your table.
May your year be filled with joy, blessings, and of course, delicious food! 🍯✨
Sephardic Sweet Potato Squash for Rosh Hashanah
DESCRIPTION
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound acorn or butternut squash
- 1 pound sweet potatoes or yams
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or cherries
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
INSTRUCTIONS
- Peel squash and sweet potatoes, then dice them into 1-inch cubes. Grease 9″ casserole dish with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and pour only diced potatoes into casserole dish. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
- In frying pan, saute onions in olive oil. When completed, add onions to casserole dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Remove casserole dish, uncover and add squash and cranberries. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until well browned.
- Serve with roasted chicken or pot roast.
NUTRITION
see more Rosh Hashana recipes here.
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