These Crispy Leek Patties Belong on Your Rosh Hashanah Table

Alongside apples and honey, pomegranates, and the other beloved simanim of Rosh Hashanah, there is another traditional food that has earned a place of honor on the holiday table: the leek, known in the language of the Sages as karti. Over the karti, we recite the prayer, "May our enemies be cut off," making it one of the meaningful symbolic foods of the holiday.

But beyond its symbolism, leek is also a wonderfully flavorful vegetable. Its delicate, slightly sweet taste makes it perfect for patties that are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and always among the first dishes to disappear from the table. If you're looking for a delicious way to incorporate this traditional siman into your Rosh Hashanah meal, these leek patties are an excellent choice.

Ingredients

• 4 medium leeks, washed, checked, and finely chopped (white parts only)

• 2 small potatoes, cooked and mashed

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 2 large eggs

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the leeks for about 10 minutes, or until soft.

Drain well and gently squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is important, as excess moisture can make the patties fall apart.

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft and lightly golden.

Transfer the cooked leeks, sautéed onion, mashed potatoes, eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper to a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until a uniform mixture forms.

Shape the mixture into medium-sized patties. If it feels too soft, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds together comfortably.

Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium heat and fry the patties for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and serve warm.

Tips and Variations

• These patties can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

• Add a handful of chopped parsley for extra color and freshness.

• For a lighter version, bake the patties in a 375°F (190°C) oven until golden, turning once halfway through.

• Double the recipe if you're serving a crowd—they tend to disappear quickly.

A Holiday Favorite

Leek patties combine tradition, symbolism, and great flavor in one simple dish. Even people who don't usually enjoy cooked leeks are often surprised by how much they love them in patty form.

Whether you're serving them as part of the simanim or as a side dish during the meal, these golden patties are a delicious way to bring both meaning and flavor to your Rosh Hashanah table.