Knish

A traditional Ashkenazi Jewish snack food

Knish

A knish is a traditional Ashkenazi Jewish snack food consisting of a filling covered with dough that is either baked or fried. It is a popular food in Jewish cuisine and has become a staple in New York City and other areas with large Jewish populations.

Knishes topped with nigella seeds

History

The knish originated in Eastern Europe, particularly in the regions that are now Poland, Ukraine, and Lithuania. It was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The word "knish" is derived from the Yiddish word "knish" (____), which itself comes from the Ukrainian word "knysh" (____), meaning "cake" or "dumpling."

Preparation

Knishes are made by rolling out dough, filling it with a variety of ingredients, and then baking or frying the filled dough. The dough is typically made from flour, water, and eggs, and can be either a simple pastry dough or a more complex yeast dough.

Fillings

The most common filling for knishes is mashed potatoes, often mixed with onions and seasonings. Other popular fillings include kasha (buckwheat groats), ground meat, cheese, mushrooms, and spinach. Sweet versions of knishes can be filled with fruit or sweet cheese.

Varieties

Knishes come in various shapes and sizes. The most common shapes are round, square, and rectangular. They can be small, bite-sized snacks or larger, meal-sized portions. The texture of the dough can vary from a flaky pastry to a more bread-like consistency, depending on the recipe.

Cultural Significance

Knishes are an important part of Jewish culture and are often served at Jewish holidays and celebrations. They are also a popular street food in cities with large Jewish communities, such as New York City.

Related pages

• Jewish cuisine
• Ashkenazi Jews
• Pierogi
• Empanada