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Most people know that kosher refers to a set of strict dietary guidelines, but they don’t precisely understand what it entails. Whether you’re dining at a kosher restaurant, a Mediterranean restaurant, or are cooking for someone who keeps kosher, you’ll need to know the ins and outs of this Jewish law. Use the guide below to understand the general rules of dining kosher.

A Basic Guide to Kosher Food

Acceptable Foodsmediterranean food

The Torah describes acceptable meat to eat as cattle and game that “chews the cud” and has “cloven hooves.” An animal must meet both of these requirements to be acceptable. For example, pigs have cloven hooves but do not chew their cud, so they cannot be eaten. Acceptable meat at kosher restaurants and households include cows, sheep, goats, lambs, springbok, and bulls.

Birds that are permissible according to kosher tradition include goose, chicken, turkey, and duck. Eggs from kosher birds are acceptable, as long as they don’t have any blood spots. Fish with fins and scales are acceptable. Shellfish without these (such as shrimp or lobster) are not kosher. No reptiles or scavenging animals are acceptable.

Dairy products are considered acceptable if they are derived from a kosher animal. Dairy cannot be mixed with meat. This means that kosher restaurants and kosher individuals cannot cook these items together or serve them at the same time. Some Jewish families keep separate utensils for meat and dairy foods.

Food Preparation

The Torah also outlines specific preparation requirements for kosher food, which are followed strictly at kosher restaurants, homes, and food preparation facilities. For example, the slaughtering of animals must be done by someone who has been properly authorized. The animal must be killed quickly with a smooth cut from a sharp knife. All the forbidden fats and veins must be removed before the meat is soaked in room-temperature water for 30 minutes. The meat must be salted on both sides for an hour to draw out all the blood. This regulation regarding blood also applies to eggs, which must be discarded if any blood is found inside.

 

When you go out to eat, choose a kosher restaurant so you can dine stress-free. Shahrazad Mediterranean Restaurant, located in the heart of St. Louis, MO, is known for its delicious kosher and halal food straight out of the Old World. They boast a variety of Mediterranean favorites, including everything from shawarma to Greek salads. Take a look at their menu online or call (636) 527-4000 with any questions.

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