This week rings in Rosh Hashana, the Jewish new year. Instead of toasting with lots of bubbly, this celebration involves a big spread of food, Manischewitz wine and apple slices dipped in honey to symbolize a sweet new year. An apple-shaped honey bowl to use for this purpose is a common Jewish wedding gift and, sure enough, as a newlywed, I’m now the proud owner of one. 

To kick off the year 5772 on an extra-sweet note, go beyond dipping and jazz up your holiday spread with Cooking Channel recipes that feature the traditional Rosh Hashana pairing of apples and honey. Make sure to leave some apple slices and your little honey pot on the table for good measure — especially if the wedding guest who gave it to you will be in attendance. 

And what's a Jewish holiday without brisket? Blasphemy. To round out the savory side of your Rosh Hashana menu, here are some Cooking Channel recipe ideas, both classic and unconventional, like Rachael's Brisket With Mushroom Sage Polenta: