One way in which ritual foods of Jews and Muslims in Southwest Asia are similar is through their shared prohibition against certain types of foods, reflecting their religious dietary laws. For example, both groups refrain from consuming pork; it is considered impure in both Judaism and Islam.
In Judaism, kosher laws dictate certain practices around food preparation and consumption. Specifically, kosher foods include items that are permissible according to Jewish law, such as certain types of meat (e.g., beef, lamb) that must be slaughtered in a specific way (shechita). Additionally, dairy and meat cannot be mixed, and specific fish with fins and scales are allowed.
Similarly, in Islam, halal laws govern what is permissible for Muslims to eat, with certain animals, such as pigs, being entirely forbidden. Halal foods must also adhere to specific slaughter and preparation methods.
For both Jews and Muslims, the concept of abstaining from certain foods reflects a commitment to their faith and religious identity. Regarding holiday foods, while both traditions may include sweet foods during their holidays, there are unique culinary customs and specific dishes favored in each culture, such as matzah and honey cake in Jewish celebrations or baklava and dates in Muslim festivities. These sweet foods play an important role in the celebratory aspects of their respective religious observances.