There may be a number of catering options available nearby. However, if you have Jewish guests, it's ideal to hire services that specialize in Kosher food. More importantly, you should choose a caterer who strictly adheres to Kosher standards. Before that, though, it’s essential to understand the true implications of these standards according to Jewish law.
Understanding the Standards -
Jewish people take
their food seriously, especially when celebrating significant life events such
as baby namings (bris), Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, and weddings. Kosher food falls into
three broad categories: meat (from certain birds and mammals), dairy, and
pareve (neutral foods such as fish, eggs, and vegetables). The best caterers in PA follow all the essential guidelines for preparing these foods properly.
The
Meat -
Only meat from ruminant animals with split
hooves is considered Kosher. These include cows, sheep, goats, deer, and lambs.
Additionally, the meat must come from the forequarters of the animal and must
be slaughtered by a specially trained individual called a shochet.
Before cooking, all traces of blood must be removed. Cooks also use separate
utensils specifically designated for meat preparation.
Dairy
and Milk products -
Milk and milk products from Kosher animals are
allowed, but they must never come into contact with meat or any meat-derived
products. Just as with meat, the best caterers in NJ ensure that
separate equipment and utensils are used exclusively for dairy.
Neutral
Foods -
Under Kosher laws, fruits and vegetables must
not be grown or processed with any non-Kosher substances. Additionally, bread
must not contain animal-based grease or shortening. Since preparing Kosher food
can be complex if you’re unfamiliar with the rules, hiring professional
help—like the best caterers in PA can be a stress-free and reliable
solution.