Tishpishti is a famous Jewish specialty of Turkey that is a rich, luscious walnut cake bathed in syrup. There are similar recipes that exist in Northern Spain, so the dessert may have originated there, possibly as a Passover cake. However, others believe Tishpishti was always served on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Alternatives - use 1 1/2 cup walnuts and 1/2 cup almonds or 1 cup walnuts and 1 cup hazelnuts. For Passover, omit the baking soda and replace 1/2 cup walnuts with 1/2 cup matzo meal.