Celebrating Modern Jewish Living Through Food, Tradition, and Family

Blini with smoked salmon are elegant appetizers that hit on all fronts: salty, creamy, and perfect two bite noshes.
The Backstory: I first went to The Russian Tea Room in 1999. I was 35 years old and as a born and bred New Yor[…]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: When I think of borscht, I immediately picture my grandfather slurping up spoonfuls of this deep magenta soup, oblivious to the sounds of his own enjoyment, and smacking his lips with a satisfied “aahh” every few s[…]-READ-MORE>
Sweet seasonal fruit and warm spices bake until tender under a crumbly, buttery topping.
The Backstory: I was looking through all the recipes that I had accumulated over the years and came upon this recipe. I have to admit–I […]-READ-MORE>
Creamy deviled eggs are a classic appetizer or first course for brunch, lunch, or a holiday meal.
The Backstory: For as long as I can remember, deviled eggs were one of those boring staple foods that showed up on the buffet ta[…]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: My cousin Elaine, who is a Holocaust survivor, gave me this recipe. She and I always chat on the phone every Friday night. She has filled me with stories of her youth and the years she spent as a young teenager in […]-READ-MORE>
This velvety sweet and savory soup is the perfect first course for Thanksgiving or any festive fall meal. Add some warm crusty bread and enjoy.
The Backstory: Let me just come right out and say it: I am not a soup lover. More […]-READ-MORE>
The Backstory: The coleslaw police (believe me, they’re out there) are divided into two camps: those who live for mayo and gobs of it and those who like their slaw on the savory side with vinegar dressing and not a dollop of mayo[…]-READ-MORE>
Twice-baked potatoes are creamy and savory on the inside and cheesy and crusty on top of the potato skin. That’s our kind of potato heaven!
The Backstory: Twice-baked potatoes are comfort food and then some. These are the pota[…]-READ-MORE>
Nana’s perfect chopped liver is the only chopped liver recipe you’ll ever need. It’s creamy, classic, and works as a dip, spread, or filling for sandwiches.
The Backstory: My Aunt Sandy makes the most wonderful, melt-in-your-m[…]-READ-MORE>
Chocolate-dipped candy Hamantaschen jazz up your Purim celebration and take only a few extra seconds to make!
The Backstory: These Hamantaschen just make me happy. There, I said it. Between the chocolate (semi-sweet and white)[…]-READ-MORE>
Buttery vanilla and chocolate cake swirled into a perfect bundt.
The Backstory: When I was a little girl, I distinctly remember my grandmother making delicious marble cakes in silver tube pans. She would pop the cake out of th[…]-READ-MORE>
Honey mustard glazed fish is flavorful and healthy dish that’s quick and easy to prepare during the week but impressive enough for company.
The Backstory: This tangy and delicious honey mustard glazed fish is fabulous preparatio[…]-READ-MORE>