new york knish recipe

The Best new york knish recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by the history of the New York knish, a classic dish that’s been a staple in the city’s Jewish delis for generations. The story goes that it was brought over by Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, where they would fill dough with potatoes and meat to create a hearty snack. The first knish shop opened in 1916 on Orchard Street on the Lower East Side, and the rest is history.

Today, you can find knishes at most Jewish delis, but I love making them at home because it’s a great way to spend time with my family and create a delicious meal together. My kids love helping me mix the dough and fill the knishes with their favorite fillings. We always have so much fun making these together.

When we’re done, we sit down and enjoy our handiwork, savoring every bite of that crispy, flaky pastry and tender filling. It’s a true family tradition that never gets old. One of the best things about making knishes at home is that you can customize them to your liking with a variety of fillings – from classic potatoes and meat to more modern options like spinach and feta or roasted vegetables.

I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to keep things interesting. Plus, it’s a great way to teach my kids about different cultures and traditions through food. We often have friends over for dinner, and serving homemade knishes is always a hit.

They’re easy to make in large quantities, too, so it’s perfect for big gatherings or potlucks. In fact, I think that’s one reason why this dish has endured for so long – it’s just plain delicious! And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like biting into a freshly baked knish straight from the oven…

I could go on forever about how much I adore this recipe! There are so many reasons why this dish has become such an integral part of my family’s culinary history.

New York Knish

4.6 from 1415 votes

A classic New York knish features a flaky dough wrapped around a savory potato and onion filling. Baked until golden, this handheld pastry is a beloved street food staple.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 15 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup warm water
1 large egg, beaten (for wash)

For the Filling

4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
3Drain well and let cool slightly.
4While the potatoes cook, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5Add the chopped onion and saute for 5 to 7 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
6Mash the cooked potatoes in a large bowl until smooth.
7Stir in the sauteed onions, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
8Set the filling aside to cool completely.
9In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
10Add the vegetable oil and warm water, then mix with a fork until a shaggy dough forms.
11Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth.
12Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
13On a lightly floured surface, roll one ball into a 6-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick.
14Place about 1/3 cup of the potato filling in the center of the circle.
15Fold the edges of the dough over the filling to enclose it completely, pinching the seams to seal.
16Gently shape the knish into a round or oval patty about 1 inch thick.
17Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
18Preheat the oven to 375°F.
19Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
20Place the knishes on the prepared sheet, seam side down, and brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
21Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the knishes are deep golden brown and the crust is crisp.
22Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
23Serve warm with mustard or sour cream.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 480mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a crispier crust, brush the knishes with oil instead of egg wash. The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.

Watch Video Of How New York Knish Works

I always keep a batch of New York knish in the freezer for busy days. To store them, let them cool completely, then wrap each knish in plastic wrap and place in a zip top bag. They keep in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for three months.

To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350 degree oven for 10 to 15 minutes until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving because it makes the crust soft. For serving, I like to offer a few dipping sauces like spicy mustard, sour cream, or a simple tomato sauce.

They are great as an appetizer, a side dish, or even the main event with a salad. My family loves them for game day parties or casual dinners. This recipe is always a good idea because it is versatile, easy to make ahead, and everyone enjoys the comforting taste of a homemade knish.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About New York Knish

Q: What is the origin of the New York knish?

The New York knish has its roots in Eastern European cuisine, specifically in Jewish delis where they would fill dough with potatoes and meat to create a hearty snack.

Q: What is the difference between a traditional knish and modern variations?

Traditional knishes are typically filled with potatoes and meat or cheese, while modern variations offer a range of fillings like spinach and feta or roasted vegetables.

Q: Can you give me some tips on how to make perfect knishes?

One key technique is to make sure your dough is not too sticky or too dry – if it’s too sticky, add some flour; if it’s too dry, add some water.

Q: Can I store leftover knishes in the fridge?

Yes, leftover knishes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Q: How do you reheat knishes?

To reheat knishes, simply bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re crispy again.

Similar Posts