After 800 Years, Rice, Beans, and Corn Are Now OK for Passover

The Passover menu has opened up.

During Passover, Ashkenazi Jews traditionally stay away from not only leavened foods like bread, namely barley, oats, rye, spelt, and wheat, but also legumes, rice, seeds, and corn. The ban has been in place since the 13th century, but it’s always been controversial. In fairly recent history, it’s been overturned. According to NPR, in December of 2015 an international group of conservative rabbis made the decision that it’s acceptable to eat rice, beans, and corn during Passover.

Why overrule an 800-year-old law? The Times of Israel reports that the decision was partially driven by budgetary issues. “The cost of everything is greater on Passover,” rabbi Susan Grossman told the Times, and legumes are a relatively low-cost source of protein, which helps alleviate a hefty Passover grocery bill. The new ruling will also, hopefully, make for a healthier Passover. “Passover foods are high in fat and cholesterol,” Grossman said. Adding the formerly banned foods to a holiday diet could help people cut back on fatty meats and carb-heavy sides. The decision is also incredibly beneficial to vegans celebrating Passover, who essentially had to go without protein for over a week.

Related: How to Make the Best Passover Seder Plate

The ruling is being felt not only by Passover celebrants but also by those who cater to them. The New York Times reported that, following the rabbis’ decree, kosher markets around the city were stocking and selling products they never sold before like popcorn, chickpeas, and hummus.

Our Passover recipes span matzo, haroset, brisket, Gefilte Fish, plenty of potatoes, and mains like chicken or salmon. Recipes like chef Hilary Sterling's Confit Kugel Wedges offer the option to either use white rice flour or substitute in some finely ground matzo meal if avoiding rice. Chef Julian Medina of NYC’s Toloache even makes tortillas with matzo meal for Braised Brisket Tacos that are perfect for Passover.

So while rice is kosher for Passover in modern times, there are ways to stick to tradition with flavorful Passover recipes.

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