Kosher food in the culinary traditions of the Jewish people

2024 Author: Isabella Gilson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:14

The word "kosher", the meaning of which is not known to everyone, means "suitable, acceptable". Basically, this concept refers to food. However, with a more detailed study of Jewish culture, it becomes obvious that the meaning of the word "kosher" can be applied to characterize a person's behavior, describe his appearance, and so on.

If any object can be said to be acceptable, permissible and permitted, then it is kosher. The meaning of the word that includes these concepts is multifaceted. But in general, it means the extent to which the object in question is suitable for use at a given time.

For example, beer is a kosher drink for Jews. However, it loses this concept during the rite of illumination (kidush). So is bread. It is kosher for everyday food and for kiddush, but loses this definition during Pesach, when it is strictly forbidden to eat leavened food. At this point, the bread becomes unsuitable for consumption.

The kosher food that a Jew should eat is described in the Torah. In this scripture, detailed instructions are given regarding the existing types of animals, the meat of which can be eaten. As for plants, the conclusion suggests itself - they are all kosher.

The Torah divides all animals into four types. These include "fish, poultry, meat and other rubbish" (insects and reptiles).

Kosher fish food must be prepared with certain seafood. They must simultaneously include three components. Used fish must have scales, gills and fins before cooking.

In the Torah you can find a list of birds whose meat may be present on the Jewish table. Basically, these are the species that cannot feed on carrion. Thus, kosher food can be made from duck and chicken meat, turkeys and geese. Unacceptable for Jews, for example, ostrich meat. Accordingly, eating the eggs of these birds is also unacceptable.

According to the Torah, meat of ruminants is considered kosher, and even then only those with all four hooves split. Thus, during the Jewish meal, you can see dishes prepared from lamb and goat meat. It is also permitted by the Torah to consume the meat of cows. Pigs, rabbits, horses, hares, etc. Jews are considered non-kosher.

All other living creatures are unacceptable for eating, except for four species of locusts. Therefore, Jews cannoteat crabs, crayfish, snakes, snails, etc.

It should be borne in mind that the Torah also considers forbidden foods that originated from non-kosher animals (caviar, milk, fat, etc.).

Kosher food must be prepared using permitted methods. The basic law of Scripture forbids the consumption of blood in any form. That is why the meat is thoroughly soaked in s alt water before cooking. If bloody spots are found in raw eggs, the whole egg is discarded. The meat eaten by the Jews must be only from those animals or birds that have been properly killed. The permitted method of deprivation of life is the instantaneous cutting of the esophagus, arteries and respiratory tract. The animal does not feel pain and does not experience fear of death.

All kosher products are of high quality. The culinary traditions of the Jewish people are considered the most strict in the world. Before entering the distribution network, kosher products must undergo strict control.