Holishkes

Holishkes, also known as stuffed cabbage rolls, is a cherished Jewish dish enjoyed throughout the year. These rolls are crafted by enveloping minced meat, sometimes combined with rice, in cabbage leaves and then simmering them in a savory tomato sauce.

Although holishkes can be savored anytime, they hold special significance during Sukkot and Simchat Torah. On Sukkot, they symbolize a bountiful harvest, and on Simchat Torah, their side-by-side placement recalls Torah scrolls.

Holishkes' origins can be traced back to Jewish communities in the Russian Empire, northeastern Poland, Hungary, and the Balkans. These communities adapted the dish from Tatar and Turkish recipes. In Eastern Europe, the dish was often called "golub" meaning "dove" as the cabbage rolls resemble birds in a nest.

Various Jewish communities have imparted their unique touches to holishkes by incorporating distinctive spices such as marjoram, cinnamon, dill, and mint. Adding rice to the filling is an ingenious way to extend the meat, making the dish more economical without compromising on flavor.

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving some comforting food, holishkes is a dish rich in both history and taste.