Celebrating Modern Jewish Living Through Food, Tradition, and Family


The Backstory: I had never cooked a good, or for that matter, a standard roast beef that was edible. It was either too well done or under cooked. When it was over cooked I would tell my hubby “let’s have something light” for di[…]-READ-MORE>

Poached pears in fruit juice is an elegant ending to any holiday or Shabbat meal and it takes only minutes to make.
The Backstory: This delicious dessert is a perfect choice for the High Holidays, a special occasion, or anytim[…]-READ-MORE>

Fresh carrot cake is a healthier version of the classic dessert that’s every bit as scrumptious but gentler on your waistline.
The Backstory: Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too? My Fresh Carrot Cake is a healthy ta[…]-READ-MORE>

There are many ways to make this classic side, but our crispy potato kugel is savory from green onions with a surprise topping that takes it over the edge!
The Backstory: This crispy potato kugel recipe was given to me when I[…]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: My cousin Rhonda, who resides in Canada, gave me this recipe. It is from her sister, Ricky. The story of my Canadian relatives go back for decades. My grandfather and Ricky’s grandmother were brother and sister[…]-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>

Watch your guests devour this luscious and creamy cake–you won’t have a single slice left.
The Backstory: My girlfriend, Lorraine, swears by this cheesecake. She used to make it all the time. I have yet to sample hers, but sh[…]-READ-MORE>

No matter how fancy or casual your party, the fun doesn’t start without homemade pigs in a blanket–a traditional fan favorite!
The Backstory: Let’s be honest with each other: no matter how fancy the shindig or how high-end the […]-READ-MORE>

Make perfect gefilte fish every time with this simple recipe that’s light, flavorful and foolproof!
The Backstory: Gefilte fish is just one of those things that you just have to see in the background over a period of years, so[…]-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>

Stuffed London Broil is an elegant dish that teases you with savory stuffing that peeks out thru tender meat. It’s hearty and perfect for cooler months.
The Backstory: I have prepared more stuffed London Broils in my time, tha[…]-READ-MORE>

The Backstory: I am probably one of the few people I know that is not crazy about pasta. I do know why; It is not that I don’t like pasta, I just am not a lover of tomatoes, and most pasta dishes call for some variation of red […]-READ-MORE>