Honey Horseradish Wings with Dijon Ranch

Honey horseradish wings are a little sweet and a little spicy, and the perfect Rosh Hashanah appetizer when dipped in Dijon ranch!

The Super Bowl of Jewish Holidays

We commonly refer to Rosh Hashanah as the Super Bowl of Jewish holidays. Okay, that’s not exactly true, but it does have some things in common with the Big Game, and inspired a new recipe. Let me explain. 

Just as even the most nonchalant sports fan will tune in on Super Bowl Sunday, the two-day festival brings all but the most lackadaisical Jew around. You could say that the rest of the year is practice leading up to this moment.

The Main Event

Growing up, we rarely attended synagogue. But the High Holidays, which start with Rosh Hashanah, were the main event. It was such a popular occasion to attend services that they had to break the congregation into two time slots just to fit in the huge stained-glass sanctuary. And you had to reserve a seat via a ticket system, or else be left out. Some years, securing a ticket could be harder than gaining entry to the Super Bowl. Instead of donning a stylish team jersey, the start of the New Year traditionally meant a new outfit to start things fresh (and, let’s be honest, to look great when running into your Middle School crush.) 

Both events are spiritual, in their own way, involve unique traditions and customs. Both may even include some praying. And of course, there is the food. Though I could care less about the NFL (I’m more into the Puppy Bowl), I love hosting a Super Bowl party. Mainly, it’s because of all the noshes. The tradition of cheering for your team with friends while snacking on chips, dips and wings just does not get old.  And Rosh Hashanah has its own customary foods too. We eat round challah to signify the circle of life. Pomegranates, so our good deeds are as plentiful as the number of seeds. And of course, apples and honey to ensure a sweet future. 

Two years ago, our wedding was the day before Rosh Hashanah. So I got to celebrate with all our favorite people and new husband during one of the happiest times of my life. This was a stark contrast to last year, where I cooked short ribs for just the two of us. We Zoomed with those we missed. Last year there was a lot of uncertainty. While this year is not exactly back to “normal” we are excited to finally be with family again to usher in a sweet year, and of course eat lots of delicious food. 

Wings to Ring in the New Year

I was inspired to create Honey Horseradish Wings for this glorious reunion, my favorite game day food with a Rosh Hashanah flavor twist. Wings are a crowd food, and I love the symbolism of uniting over a dish best served for a group. These are tossed in a sweet and spicy honey horseradish sauce and are a perfect appetizer to usher in the New Year with those you love.  Dredged in baking powder and slow roasted in the oven, you wouldn’t even know these crispy wings were not fried. They are a little messy, just like this year, but hopefully they will inspire a sweet future to come.

Get the full recipe for Honey Horseradish Wings with Dijon Ranch on The Food Network!