Both the Mexican and the Jewish people have historic cultural traditions that are rich in art, literature and food. Perhaps that is why it made such sense for Howard Greenstone, former CEO of the Rosa Mexicano restaurant family (www.rosamexicano.com) to include Passover in their annual Flavors of Mexico celebration.
kosher
Tsimmes con salsa – Steve Peljovich brings Cuban flavors to deli favorites (Originally published 1/15)
With all that is happening there these days, anything related to Cuba makes for a hot dish.
Fortunately, we in the Boston area have been able to get hot Cuban dishes for some time, thanks to Steve Peljovich, owner of Michael’s Deli in Brookline (www.michaelsdelibrookline.com).
Talking Turkey- In Hebrew! – Thanksgiving has Jewish roots and recipes (Originally published 11/14)
Though many have put their lulav and etrog away, the spirit of Sukkot lingers. In fact, many see a relationship between the Feast of Booths and America’s harvest feast. Some note how Pilgrims read both the Old and New Testaments. Others observe how many who first accepted Washington’s 1789 proclamation that the third Thursday in November be devoted to “rendering unto [G-D] our sincere and humble thanks” were Colonial Jews. Some even suggest Pilgrims lived among religiously tolerant Sephardic Jews in Holland before continuing to the New World.
Regardless of which story you believe, it is easy to see the link between the Jewish harvest festival and the secular American one. Perhaps that is why so many want their table to be as kosher on Thanksgiving as on any other night.
Fortunately, our area has many places to partake of a pareve Pilgrim-y platter.
A Sweet Treasure – Robin’s Candy offers treats for Chanukah and every day (Originally published 12/14)
Most children grow up in responsible homes where candy is only offered as a special treat. As the granddaughter of the owners of a popular candy shop in New York, Robin Hefland grew up literally surrounded by candy. Spending many delicious days taste testing and getting to know some of the all-time classic candies, she also learned what it took to make customers happy, even without sugar in their systems.
Years later, as the owner of Robin’s Candy (www.robinscandy.com), Helfand continues to bring those familial lessons and delicious treats to friends across the Commonwealth and around the world.