07/08/2026
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In the ancient Near East, bread was more than food - it was the foundation of a meal and a symbol of nourishment.
Jewish families around the world have special customs for celebrating Shabbat with special loaves.
In Europe (and today all over the world), challah - the iconic glossy, golden, braided loaf of sweet rich dough is served on the Shabbat table.
The name challah comes from the Torah’s commandment to set aside a portion of dough as an offering. The tradition of braiding developed later, with different numbers of strands carrying different symbolism.
Some families place two loaves on the table. Why two? They represent the double portion of manna the Israelites received before Shabbat in the wilderness...a symbol of abundance.
In Yemen, Jews bake kubaneh - a rich, buttery pull-apart bread which is traditionally prepared by slow-baking it overnight in a pot and is served warm for Shabbat lunch.
Samun, the iconic Iraqi bread is instantly recognizable by its diamond shape. Unlike challah, the shape isn't a religious symbol, but developed as a distinctive Iraqi baking tradition, creating a crisp crust and wonderfully airy center. For Iraqi Jews, samun became an important part of Shabbat meals and Jewish Iraqi cuisine.
The name samun is related to the Turkish word somun (ultimately from the Greek word for bread).
In Syria, Jewish families have traditionally marked Shabbat and other celebrations with kak, ring-shaped loaves topped with sesame seeds or spices.
Across the Middle East, ring-shaped breads have long been a familiar sight in bakeries and markets, with different communities developing their own versions and traditions.
In Ethiopia, dabo is a traditional homemade bread enjoyed both at everyday meals and special occasions. Often baked in a round shape and flavored with spices such as coriander or fenugreek, dabo has a soft, hearty texture and a wonderfully aromatic crust.
For Ethiopian Jews, dabo has also become part of the culinary traditions carried from Ethiopia to Israel, connecting generations through the familiar tastes of home.
Share your family's Shabbat bread traditions in the comments section!
