A kosher event is one that adheres to Jewish dietary laws. A typical orthodox Jewish event will not have any pork or shellfish, but this is only one of the many dietary laws to consider. The Jewish dietary law is much more comprehensive and includes not only kosher foods but also proper food preparation and the use of permitted cookware.

If you’re looking for an event space for a traditional Jewish wedding, bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah, it’s imperative to look for a venue that works with a reputable kosher caterer.

What Exactly Is Kosher?

The word “kosher” describes food that is considered “clean,” which means it was cooked and prepared according to the dietary laws of Judaism. These strict food laws are also known as kashrut. Kosher rules originate from the Torah, which consists of the first five books of the Bible (the Old Testament): Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy. These books contain various references to dietary rules. For example, the Book of Exodus specifies meat and dairy must not be eaten together. In Leviticus, Jews are commanded to only eat meat from animals that chew their cud and have split hooves, such as sheep, cattle and goats.

Kosher Rules

The most basic kosher rule is not eating meat and dairy together. Another kosher rule prohibits eating pork and shellfish under any circumstances. Even though mixing meat and dairy isn’t allowed, it’s acceptable to prepare and eat these foods separately.

The Jewish food law divides foods into three main categories: kosher, treif and parev.

Kosher

• Meat: Beef, lamb and poultry
• Dairy: Milk, cheese, butter and yogurt (must come from a kosher animal)

Treif

Any foods that are not allowed are called treif or unkosher. These foods include:

• Pork
• Meat from rabbits and horses
• Shellfish
• Fish without fins or scales
• Birds of prey, such as eagles, hawks or gulls
• Animals that have been slaughtered and/or butchered incorrectly
• Blood
• Animals that have died naturally

Parev

These are so called neutral foods and can be paired with kosher foods, such as meat or dairy. All fruits and vegetables are considered parev, as well as a variety of other foods and beverages, including:



• Pasta
• Grains
• Legumes
• Beans
• Nuts
• Eggs
• Seafood: As long as it has fins and scales (shellfish is forbidden)
• Vegetable oils
• Candy (must be dairy free)
• Coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Wine (must be certified kosher)

Keeping an Event Kosher

A typical dinner served during a kosher event consists of kosher meat, such as chicken, beef, lamb or fish paired with pasta and vegetables followed by a non-dairy dessert, like fruit, dairy-free cake, cookies or pastries.

Common kosher beverages served during events include tea, coffee and wine. The latter must be certified kosher, which means it was made in accordance with Jewish dietary laws and the Orthodox Union. If hard liquor is served, the alcohol brand as well as any mixers and condiments must all be kosher.

Planning a Kosher Event

Planning a kosher event can be an overwhelming undertaking. After all, you want to show reverence to the cultural laws and customs while celebrating an important milestone in someone’s life. To make things easier, make a list of key considerations and share it with your event planner.

Your list will be tailored to the individual needs of your guests, but one of the more important aspects to consider is whether the event will be kosher or kosher-style. The latter means the food served will be kosher, however the preparation doesn’t have to be supervised by a rabbi.

You should also establish if the venue you’re hosting your event at works with a kosher caterer with rabbinical supervision. This aspect is especially important if you’re looking to have a fully kosher event. You may also want to ask if the caterer uses kosher cookware, and whether the venue provides kosher dishes and tableware.

Lastly, if you wish to include alcoholic beverages, it may be worth asking if the venue offers kosher brands, and if not, if you can bring in alcohol from an outside supplier.

Host Your Kosher Event at CrystalView in Fair Oaks, Virginia

Are you looking for the perfect space for your next event? At CrystalView, we specialize in a diverse array of private and corporate events that will exceed your expectations. Make your special event an unforgettable experience for family, friends and coworkers.

Contact our venue for more information or to schedule a tour.