The Tu B’Shvat Seder placed special emphasis on Shivat Haminim — the Seven Species of produce native to the Land of Israel, which are mentioned in the Torah: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and honey. Although in many parts of the world it is still winter, Tu B’Shvat — the 15th of Shvat, the…
This is a sporadic column by Bay Area personal chef Alix Wall, in which she evaluates a cookbook by making some of its recipes, sharing them with friends and asking what they think of the results. Just in time for Tu B’Shvat (“The New Year of the Trees”), she cooks her way through “The Seven…
A creative healthful green alternative to the traditional carrot raisin salad. Photograph by Alix Wall. 4 cups grated carrots ¾ cup raisins ¼ cup fresh minced basil ¼ cup finely chopped chicory leaves or other greens ¼ cup sunflower seeds Juice of 1-2 oranges 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1) Grate the carrots. 2) Add remaining ingredients….
A protein-rich, filling spread for your vegetarian guests. Photograph by Alix Wall. 1 can of pitted green olives 4 cloves garlic ½ to 1 cup walnuts ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 1) Purée in food processor and serve as a dip. (The amounts do not have to be exact. Depending on your preference you can…
Dried fruit compote reminds the writer of the dried fruit served at her first Tu B’Shvat seder. Photograph by Shulie Madnick. “My mom is inviting you for a Tu B’Shvat seder.” I had neither heard of nor experienced a Tu B’Shvat seder while growing up in Israel, until my boyfriend at the time — I…
From Tu B’Shvat (Jewish Arbor Day), we may develop a clearer understanding that the well being of trees is intimately connected to the well being of all creation. From the point of view of practical Jewish philosophy and everyday living, the “Tree of Life” symbolizes the wisdom of the Torah: “Man is like a tree…
In Israel by late January, about halfway through the rainy season, the majority of the year’s precipitation has fallen. The sap in the trees begins to flow and the branches show the initial signs of budding. It’s at this time that Jews celebrate Tu B’Shvat (this Thursday and Friday) — known as the New Year…
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