Pre-Fast Menu for Healthy Yom Kippur

In truth, I do not have the magic answer to what is best to eat before a fast. I’ve definitely tried it all, from carbohydrate loading to eating a tablespoon of honey just before a fast begins. But after years of experimenting I have my simple, pre-fast menu that I think is balanced, hydrating, and satiating. Some fasts, I am admittedly hungrier than others but in discussing this with others, it seems to be the case for everyone. A few other simple tips, don’t grossly overeat before a fast, it just makes you excessively tired and puts your digestive system into overdrive. Drink lots of water and then drink some more. Start drinking extra water a day or two before the fast so that you have some extra hydration in reserve. And of course, limit caffeine a day or two before so that you do not get a withdrawal headache. Add watermelon to this menu too.

Mushroom Cauliflower Soup

Nutritious, savory, and filling but not heavy at all. This is good all year round but a nice start to a pre-fast meal.

Traditional Whole Roasted Chicken

Can be doubled

Ultimate Roasted Garlic Potatoes

I’ve tried every kind of roasted potatoes and these are deeply flavored and perfectly crispy. I like the additions of balsamic vinegar and dijon mustard. If you don’t have time to roast the garlic just use fresh, but roasted garlic is richly sweet and delicious.

Maple Roasted Heirloom Carrots with Tahini Drizzle

This is a new addition to my menu. It was a big hit this summer and for many on Rosh Hashanah and it fits well into the theme.

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

Traditional, perfect every time, this one’s a keeper chocolate chip cookie. Serve with pareve ice cream. This recipe is adapted from Sally’s Baking Addiction.