National Library of Israel acquires copy of oldest kosher cookbook belonging to Montefiore family
The National Library of Israel has acquired a copy of the oldest kosher cookbook, originally published anonymously. Scholars have attributed the cookbook to Lady Judith Montefiore, the wife of Sir Moses Montefiore. This cookbook, titled 'The Jewish Manual of Modern Cookery,' was first published in England in 1846.
- ▪The cookbook is recognized as the oldest kosher cookbook in existence.
- ▪It was published anonymously by 'A Lady' and later attributed to Lady Judith Montefiore.
- ▪The cookbook includes a collection of valuable recipes and hints related to cooking and personal care.
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National Library of Israel acquires copy of oldest kosher cookbook belonging to Montefiore familyWhile the cookbook was originally published anonymously by “A Lady,” scholars later attributed the title to British linguist Lady Judith Montefiore, the wife of Sir Moses Montefiore.Follow us on GoogleA page from the first kosher cookbook published in England from 1846, titled "The Jewish Manual of Modern Cookery, With a Collection of Valuable Recipes & Hints Relating to the Toilette," May 26, 2026.(photo credit: Haim and Hanna Salomon Judaica Collection at the National Library of Israel)
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Jerusalem Post | JPost.com.