Where did it originate?

Challah is a Jewish Tradition

Challah is known as a simple bread. With its roots dating back to biblical times. This bread was generally baked on Saturdays or The Shabbat by Jewish housewives, Not Tuesday. 😢 This bread is a staple seen on the table weekly; though also baked during celebrations and holidays.

The word challah was first coined in Leket Yosher, and Austrian book published in 1488. Challah also has roots in Polish, American, and German baking with each creating different styles of the bread. America – Berches, German – Ashkenazi. In Poland, sugar was added to the recipe due to abundance.

Biblically, challah was referred to as the portion of bread given to the priest (kohen) on a weekly basis. Again, typically, Saturday or The Shabbat.

When Challah came to the Americas (United States); Sugar, Eggs, and Poppy Seeds were added.

During the Sabbath, Challah is seen on the table on a daily basis.

Hungarian Jewish Immigrants Charles and Max Fleischmann introduced their family’s yeast products which also changed Challah shape and size throughout the years.

Thank You to the Dental Assistant at a Local Dentist Office for this weeks recommendation of Jewish Challah Bread. Your contribution to Chris’s Baking Initiative is well appreciated.