Celebrating Modern Jewish Living Through Food, Tradition, and Family


An oldie but goodie that’s as creamy and delicious as ever.
The Backstory: This is a short, easy recipe with few ingredients. But it’s different from regular egg salad. The story for this, however, is long. I am going way ba[…]-READ-MORE>

These are not your bubbie’s prunes–they are sweeter and absolutely delicious!
The Backstory: I have a clear and fond memory of my grandparents at their kitchen table in Brooklyn, and my grandmother serving stewed fruit to my […]-READ-MORE>

Come Friday, no matter what I’m doing (teaching at Boston University, shuffling kids to and from school), the other half of my brain is thinking about Shabbat. In between work and school drop off and pick up, I’m trying to figure […]-READ-MORE>

Panko, parmesan, and savory herbs and spices make these classic stuffed mushrooms full of flavor and crunch.
The Backstory: Classic stuffed mushrooms are one of the easiest appetizers to make for a large crowd–they’re inexpen[…]-READ-MORE>

Tender and slightly chewy, these easy kasha kreplach are just perfect for soups or for serving as an appetizer with a tangy dip.
The Backstory: I have to admit that I’ve never had kasha kreplach in my entire life (bad Jew, I k[…]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: When I think of kugel, I can’t help but think of my father doing his standard joke in a heavily accented Polish dialect, “Is it kugel or is it pujjink?” (meaning noodle pudding). You see, when it comes to kugel, mo[…]-READ-MORE>

My in-laws host a Seder like no one else. If there were Red Carpet Seders, their’s would be the Oscars of such a thing. They are truly extraordinary events, with numerous, beautifully set round tables, gorgeous linens and china, S[…]-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>

Sweet and slightly chewy, Mom’s cheese blintzes are so delicious, you’ll never be able to stop at just one. Perfect for your next family brunch!
The Backstory: The history behind Mom’s cheese blintzes–or any cheese blintz, fo[…]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: My girlfriend Gloria is an excellent cook. About 30 years ago my husband and I were invited to her home for dinner. This casserole was one of the delectable foods she prepared that night. Whatever she served wa[…]-READ-MORE>

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: 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>