Rosh Hashanah is rich with symbolism, and for those following a vegan lifestyle, the simanim seder offers a powerful way to connect with tradition through food. Nearly all of the symbolic foods traditionally eaten at this time are naturally plant-based, making the experience especially meaningful and accessible. The seder can include individual tasting plates or a shared platter of symbolic dishes, each reflecting themes of renewal, protection and abundance as we enter the new year.
The Rosh Hashanah seder itself is a lesser-known tradition, primarily observed in Sephardi and Mizrahi communities. Held on the first night of the festival, it involves a structured sequence of symbolic foods, known as simanim, each introduced with a short blessing or wordplay expressing hopes for the year ahead. These foods include leeks, dates, beets, black-eyed peas, gourds and more. Though not as widespread in Ashkenazi practice, the seder is gaining renewed interest as a joyful, intentional and richly rooted way to begin the Jewish year.
Core Plant-Based Simanim (from the Talmud):
These foods can be served individually, arranged in small tasting plates, or incorporated into a shared platter of symbolic dishes for the seder.
Pomegranate
Associated with the 613 mitzvot of the Torah, the pomegranate symbolises abundance and commitment to spiritual growth. Serve fresh, or combine with vegan feta, herbs, and nuts for a celebratory dish.
Apple and Sweet Syrup
Apples represent the cyclical nature of the year and the hope for sweetness. Drizzle with maple syrup, agave, or date syrup to honour this tradition with compassion.
Sweet Round Challah
A round challah, often with raisins, reflects the year’s cycle and our desire for wholeness and sweetness. Glaze with agave or a sugar-water wash before baking.
Symbolic ‘Head’ of the Year
To represent being at the “head and not the tail,” some families use a fish or lamb’s head. For a compassionate, vegan version, consider using a roasted garlic or cabbage head, a seasoned cauliflower, or a creatively shaped vegetable or fruit.
New Fruit
Choose something seasonal and unfamiliar — such as passionfruit or starfruit — and say the Shehecheyanu blessing to mark the moment and embrace renewal.
Tzedakah and Teshuvah
Giving tzedakah during this season expresses our ethical values and hopes for a just world. Support causes that align with compassion, sustainability, or community care. Teshuvah remains central — this is a time for reflection, accountability, and recommitment to growth.
JVS Rosh Hashana recipes:
Stuffed Aubergine with Vegan Feta and Pomegranate
Spiced Apple Pie Filling
Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Apples with Maple Cider Glaze
Aunty Stella's Ginger cake
Curried leek and lentil soup
Salted caramel apple pie
May your year begin with intention, compassion, and joy.
Shanah Tovah U’Metukah — Wishing you a good and sweet year.