10 Kosher Gifts Anyone Is Sure To Love

Kosher guidelines are formed from biblical beliefs that create the foundation of Jewish dietary laws. These dietary laws do not allow pork, shellfish, catfish and certain game, such as rabbit or eagle. The stringent guidelines continue on to say that other species of meat and fowl must be slaughtered in a very specific manner to be considered kosher. One last guideline states that meat and dairy products must not be consumed together. These foods are either considered to be non-kosher or did not follow appropriate guidelines.

This may sound overwhelming. It could even leave you wondering what exactly someone who follows kosher guidelines can possibly eat. Years back it may have been tough, but with all of the many choices in the marketplace today the options are practically limitless. Kosher food has turned into a very profitable industry, and the consumer greatly benefits from this with a vast array of choices. So if you are in need of a kosher gift for somebody who practices it, you're in luck! Gifts are given for holidays such as Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah or Hanukah - all of which are important within the faith. Reasons for gifts can also range from celebrating a new baby at a brisk or naming ceremony to mourning a family member passing away through Shiva. Here we examine the top 10 kosher gift ideas to make your shopping much easier - and even fun.

1. Rugelach Assortment. This Jewish pastry is a traditional favorite. It has a rolled-up shape and can be filled with a variety of ingredients from raisins to chocolate. This treat is made without any dairy and has been loved through many generations.

2. Challah. Bread may not sound like a good gift idea, but this special variety is a true treat. This special braided braid is a delicious foundation at any kosher table. You could buy fresh Challah bread or really wow them by baking your very own loaf.

3. Gourmet Kosher Chocolate. Who doesn't love chocolate? While it's important to be certain that the chocolate you are buying is kosher, that shouldn't be an issue with the many sources available to you in your gift buying needs. One excellent example is Enstrom's, which offers a huge selection of tantalizing chocolates and homemade toffee. This is one gift that won't soon be forgotten!

4. Kosher Wine. A good bottle of wine can go a long way. Kosher wine is very carefully produced within the guidelines and has a taste all its own. Jewish celebrations are often marked with kosher wine. Luckily, you can find this variety anywhere. It's an excellent way to let them know you care.

5. Matzah Ball Soup. This is a staple at the Jewish Passover table and is served daily at many delis and restaurants throughout the country. If you don't want to make the soup, you can even find this mix to include in a care package.

6. Kosher Candy Bouquet. What a fun way to celebrate any occasion! Include some yummy favorites such as taffy, lollipops and chocolate-covered pretzels. This option can appeal to the child in everyone while offering sophistication. Kosher has never tasted so fun!

7. Kosher Snack Basket. You can either make your own gift basket or buy one already assembled as the number of retailers carrying kosher snacks is growing all the time. Be sure to include dried fruit, nuts and pretzels - if they contain the kosher symbol then you are sure to give something appropriate and appreciated.

8. Kosher Pie or Cake. It's amazing how many kosher baked goods there are. So long as the cakes or pies are prepared without any dairy and stick to the guidelines, you can find an endless number of yummy treats. Some tasty options include New York-style cheesecake, a blueberry crumb cake or a dairy-free chocolate cream pie. Nobody can turn down dessert!

9. Latke Crisps. Potato latkes (pancakes) can be found at any Jewish holiday table, and this snack is just like the real thing. This snack has all the taste of a traditional potato latke with the crunch of a potato chip. These can be given as a hostess gift or as part of a basket for any holiday or special occasion.

10. Yummy Gift Basket. You can find the less traditional gift baskets that include regular treats prepared to kosher guidelines, or go for a more traditional gift basket. If going for traditional be sure to find one that includes hamantash, as this three-cornered baked treat can appeal to anyone with fillings ranging from caramel to dates. You can't go wrong sending a gift basket for any occasion!

Written by Mary Frederick