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>

Cheesy garlic herb bread is just begging to be dipped in sauce or soup and takes just minutes to make!
The Backstory: This tasty cheesy garlic herb bread is so popular and easy to make. Yet most of my friends that love this ty[…]-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>

The Backstory: What is it with Jews and fiber? With an opening question like that, I can only say that I wish my father was here, because he’d have about 50 jokes, ready to go. More of the Backstory after the recipe…
Bran Muf[…]-READ-MORE>

Roasted bananas are the secret ingredient that make this bread moist, sweet, and one of our top picks.
The Backstory: This is my all-time favorite banana bread recipe. I’m not even doing it justice by calling it banana bread. […]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: This delicious sauce is one of the great French sauces that is actually a derivative of another French sauce: Hollandaise. Bearnaise uses slightly different ingredients than Hollandaise and although both may see[…]-READ-MORE>

Eggplant Dip is a savory, tomato-y, slighty sweet spread that’s perfect with crusty bread, crackers, or as a dip for veggies. A perfect make-ahead dish.
The Backstory: Eggplant dip is one of my favorite, go-to appetizers when […]-READ-MORE>

Spinach salad with strawberries and goat cheese is a refreshing and bright salad that has the best of both worlds: sweet and tart from the berries and tangy cheese. Add grilled chicken or salmon for a heartier lunch or main course[…]-READ-MORE>

Tuna stuffed tomatoes are a great way to jazz up tuna and deliver a wow presentation! They make a beautiful display on a buffet table and can be made ahead.
The Backstory: The first time I made tuna stuffed tomatoes, I really […]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: When it comes to Rack of Lamb, it can be said that this is one of the most tasty, elegant dishes you can serve. I was raised on meat and potatoes. Mom made lamb chops occasionally. It was not the baby chops. it w[…]-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>

The Backstory: Since I hadn’t made this dish in decades, I reached out to one of my Mah Jongg players for a good recipe for Salmon Croquettes. They unanimously led me to Debbie. Debbie likes to cook and I understand, prepares s[…]-READ-MORE>