Food is incredibly influential.  At the best of times, cuisine can unite families, communities and even nations, keeping memories and traditions alive for hundreds of years.  At other times, the things we do (or don’t) eat, can divisive or polarizing.  Pushing that culinary envelope has a time and a place, so make sure you’re not...

A few weeks ago I spoke with a journalist with the Jewish Telegraphic Agency who was exploring a healthier approach to chanukah.  I have since been quoted in a number of media outlets including The Times of Israel, The Jewish Week and our local Kansas City Jewish Chronicle saying  “People have a misconception of the tradition to fry...

Eight nights of Chanukkah, and eight nights of Hanukkah Cocktails, and if your schedule looks anything like ours, there’s plenty of activities for kids and adults alike for the next eight nights. In the spirit of celebration, no pun intended, I share with you eight unique cocktails for you to share with your friends and...

Before I got married, I almost never read, or purchased, a cookbook.  I felt that cooking was an art, not a science, so written instruction would inhibit my creative expression. My wife, on the other hand, had a collection of cook books and before long we developed a custom that I quickly grew to love....

Chanukah is around the corner. Eight oily nights of fried latkes and donuts are plentiful, waiting to tempt the healthiest of eaters. If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to these fatty delights, check out my Rutabaga and Turnip Latkes featured in The Jewish Week a few days ago. If you still want that fried...

I'm not one to make dessert.  I don't have a sweet tooth and more often than not I'd rather end the meal with a savory note.  That said, I love apple pie.  There's something about piping hot apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that says "all is right in the world" and...

Note: I did hesitate before posting this message, my previous post explains why.  If you didn’t read my thoughts from earlier in the week, I encourage you to do so. November 2008 was the first time I sat down at a Thanksgiving table in the US.  My wife and I were newlyweds and were in...

I feel a little guilty counting my blessings today.  I have plenty of things to be thankful for and the last few weeks have reminded me of that but today it seems wrong to talk about all the good things.  I feel like I am sitting in my house watching a storm on the other...