Bruntmor Cast Iron Sizzles!

Cast Iron? YES! 
We recently worked with two Bruntmor Cast Iron Cooking Pans. 

First, the Bruntmor 16" pre-seasoned cast iron fry pan.

This is a generous size pan, and it requires generous storage space, but we think that it is a perfect size for a large family, or for entertaining a group. 
It arrives pre- seasoned, so we kashered it (which is actually very simple to do). After toveling, we simply rinsed it in hot water, thoroughly dried it, and then rubbed it all over with a light coating of vegetable oil. We placed it upside down in our oven and turned on the self-cleaning cycle for 2 hours. We allowed it to cool, and then rubbed it with additional vegetable oil. Do ask your rabbi if he recommends this method.
Tip: Use a high smoke point vegetable oil, like grapeseed, canola, corn or safflower -- not olive oil. 

After each use, we rinse the pan with soapy warm water, dry it thoroughly, and rub it with additional vegetable oil. After multiple uses, the pan ages and becomes even better and more non-stick. Cast iron pans have been passed on through generations! Older pans are family treasures. 

The 16" Bruntmor pan has comfortable, grip handles, which we found to be very useful due to its formidable weight and size. The pan is diverse and works well on a cooktop, in the oven or on a grill. We're using our pan for dairy cooking. Our delicious standouts so far include  Copycat Kosher Deep Dish Pizza (a Chicago specialty!) and our scrumptious brunch German Apple Pancakes. Enjoy the recipes!

If you choose to use your pan for meat, consider preparing sizzling steaks, burgers, hot dogs or chicken in it. Use on gas, induction, and electric cooktops or on an outdoor grill or fire pit. It is oven-friendly up to 500 F

Approximately $50

Bruntmor enameled 12" cast iron sauté pan with lid

Bruntmor's new and colorful enameled cast iron skillet and sauté pan is extremely useful. This 12-inch pan is family friendly and offers even and steady heat retention. It can be used on the cooktop and is oven friendly. It has a colorful enameled exterior,and cast iron interior. After checking with rabbinical sources, we find that no seasoning needed.  The colors are irresistible.

• 12 inch enameled cast iron round 5 quart deep sauté pan with lid
• Includes stainless steel sure grip knob, ergonomic handles, and two pouring spouts
• Versatile pan can stir fry, braise, sear, deep fry, bake, optimized for steady, even heat
• Easy to clean: just use light soap and warm water, Oven safe up to 500 degrees

These Bruntmor pans are very affordable as compared to some other comparable brands. We found the quality and functionality impressive . For more information visit Bruntmor.com 

Click below to buy your choice of Bruntmor Skillets.
16" Cast iron Fry pan $49
12" Enameled saute pan with lid, 12" pan is available in multiple colors. $69.00

Summer Sips with the Blendjet

We are in the process of exploring personal blenders and began our sipping journey with the powerful, compact, and irresistible Blendjet. It was love at first sip with this portable little wonder which easily packs into a lunch bag, a tote or a suitcase. The Blendjet is  wireless, rechargeable and lightweight, and can travel anywhere that an imagination will take it. Once closed, it is leakproof. Just prepare the drink at home and take it along ..ready to whirr!
The Blendjet is also a perfect little helper to make small portions of dips, sauces, and dressings. But, our favorite use is creating sips just for us! Yes, it's coming to the beach with us and we'll be sipping on the sand. And, one is soon on its way to a seminary in Israel. OMG wait until you see 6 luscious colors. Yes, you can mix them up -- one for dairy and one for parve drinks.

• Stainless steel blades, strainer, rechargeable battery
• 9"H x 3"W and weighs 1 lb., 12 ounce capacity
• 60-day Limited Manufacturer's Warranty
• Totally portable  

We are sharing some of our fave recipes for summer sips. If you are serving a crowd, just increase the recipe incrementally and use a full size blender.

Sensational Simple Smoothies
1 cup blueberries, peaches, bananas - use a single fruit or a combo
1 cup milk and/or vanilla ice cream 
Directions:Place all ingredient is the Blendjet and whirr.

Frosted Orange Creamsicle
Here in the south, the frosted orange shake was originated by The Varsity, Atlanta's legendary drive through restaurant and has become a beloved classic. In the north, many loved the Good Humor Truck with its wildly popular Creamsicle, an orange Popsicle, swirled with creamy vanilla ice cream. We present our fabulous, sippable Blendjet version
2 scoops vanilla ice cream
2 Tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate
1/3 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon confectioners sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 ice cubes
Directions: Place all ingredients in Blend Jet and Whirr!  

Personal Pina Colada
Chill all ingredients prior to using
4 ounces crushed pineapple with natural juice
4 ounces Cream of Coconut (like Coco Lopez)
4 ounces light rum
2 cubes of ice  Whirr and Enjoy!  

Summer Sangria Smoothie
4 ounces fruity white wine
2 ounces triple sec
1/2 cup strawberries
1/2 peach peeled and cut into chunks
2 Tablespoons lime
1 Tablespoon simple syrup or confectioners' sugar
a few ice cubes 
Directions: Combine all ingredients in Blend Jet and WHIRR!

 

The SECRETS to real southern Sweetened Iced Tea
No blender needed...but we are happy to share the most classic southern summer sip ...Sit back, relax and enjoy!
2 quarts water
1/2 cup sugar (or more if you wish)*
4 Family sized tea bags - We use Luzianne brand iced tea bags
Optional: Fresh mint leaves, lemon, lime, orange slices or sliced peaches
*Add more sugar to boiling mixture for sweeter tea

Directions
Bring water and sugar to boil.  Simmer until sugar dissolves. Remove from flame
Add tea bags, and optional lime, lemon, mint or peaches.. Let steep at room temperature about 1 hour. Remove tea bags and flavorings.
When serving, add additional slices of fresh citrus, peach and/or a mint leaf or two. *Add more sugar to boiling mixture if you like sweeter tea!
KosherEye note: The secret to sweetened iced tea is to dissolve the sugar into the water while on the flame and then remove the water and add tea bags and flavorings.
Click here for more information or to order a Blendjet

Kosher Road Trip--Destination...Summer!

Ready, set,  pack the car! So you're renting a beach or mountain place and going on a road trip to get there. For the kosher family, this can be a big challenge. In addition to leisure gear to enjoy at the destination, your kosher kitchen has to come along. If you're like many families we know, dining out opportunities are rare, and even if you are in the heart of Miami Beach or the Catskills, home cooking is preferred at least some of the time. Eating in - saves money, saves time, and is usually healthier and more leisurely with a family.e compiled a list of what to bring, and what not to bring along. The KosherEye team usually heads to a beach in the summer...and has had many years of experience in stocking a vacation condo. We're primarily sharing cooking related tips, but have also provided a few general tips for other vacation packing.

Before we rent a unit, the first question we ask: Is the oven self-cleaning? As soon as we arrive we check the oven, and press that cleaning button!
Do remember that the Dollar store is your friend. Almost all of the items listed in the must bring section are available for $1 each. We are ardent fans of Dollar Tree stores. Remember, we are not looking for top quality kitchen tools or longevity, we are looking for 2 weeks of functionality. However, if you plan to be a regular vacation renter, you may want to upgrade and keep your vacation supplies from year to year. Many frequent travelers purchase 2-3 large tubs and keep dairy, parve and meat kitchenware in storage in the labeled tubs. 
We take along insulated bags and re-usable ice packs to store our transportable foods and to use at our destination as well.
If possible, pre-plan your menu to ensure that you have the right kitchen supplies. If you plan to serve both meat and dairy, take along     the correct implements and serving tools. 
Add the KosherGPS app to your available phone apps 
We welcome YOUR travel suggestions to add to our list. This resource will be ongoing and permanently accessible and printable. 

Kosher Road Trip Packing List   

Shavuos 2019/5779

KosherEye Shavuos Cookbook

Our Most Popular Recipes 
Meatless, Dairy or Parve
Ready to Print, Share, Pin and Cook! New recipes added often!

Yes, we've made these. Yes they are fabulous. Most can be made dairy or parve. If you have questions, we are here to answer them. Share your comments below or send them to contactus@koshereye.com.

  1. "Crabmeat" Quiche - dairy
  2. Easy Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
  3. Julie's Caesar salad dressing –parve
  4. Caesar salad dressing – dairy
  5. Salmon with Fried Onions- parve
  6. Dairy Noodle Kugel for a Crowd- by Estee Kafra
  7. Deluxe Noodle Kugel by Tina Wasserman
  8. Risotto- KosherEye signature recipe – parve or dairy
  9. Roasted Corn Chowder by Pam Reiss – parve or dairy
10. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup by Mark Bittman - dairy
11. Beet Salad with goat cheese - dairy
12. Cinnamon Buns with Cream Cheese Glaze by Susie Fishbein- dairy
13. Strawberry Bread – The Amish Cook's Baking Book
14. Whole Wheat Honey Bread by Red Star Yeast
15. Meme's Biscuits by Virginia Willis - dairy
16. Ice Cream Pie – KosherEye Signature Recipe Parve or dairy
17. Cheesecake Pie in a Hurry– A KosherEye Family recipe - dairy
18. Cheesecake The Mile End Cookbook - dairy
19. Chocolate Lasagna – parve or dairy
20. Chocolate Ice Cream, Philadelphia Style by David Lebovitz
21. Vanilla Ice Cream, Philadelphia Style by David Lebovitz
22. No churn – 4 Ingredient ice cream
23. Lemonade Iced Tea by Southern Living Magazine - parve
24. Heering White Russian- by Peter F Heering dairy or parve
25. KosherEye Special Sangria- parve
26. Cinnamon Roll Cake
27. Sushi Cake and Sushi Trifle
28. Crustless Tomato Cheese Quiche
29. Tomato Pea Bisque
30. Alton Brown's Sour Cream Cheesecake
31. Caramel-Apple Cheesecake
32. Triple Berry Fruit Soup
33. Parmesan Roasted Zucchini
34. Hash Brown Potato Cheese Quiche 
35. Tuna Quiche
36. Creamy Corn Pudding

More Shavuos Recipes
Delicious Dairy - Recipe Roundup
Speedy Desserts - Reader Favorites
10 Cheesecakes from Around the World - including Lindy's in NYC

Visit often! We add new recipes daily. Share your favorites with us: contactus@KosherEye.com.

Favorite Recipes for Mother’s Day Brunch

MOM RULES!
Favorite Recipes for Mother’s Day Brunch

We are sharing some recipes that we think you will enjoy preparing for brunch on Mother's Day or any day! Each is tested, tasted and delicious. Some are  KosherEye classics - like the scrumptious vanilla fruit salad, and the cheesecake parfait, which is studded with fresh strawberries; and some are tasted and tested reader favorites. We've selected recipes that we love! Let us know if you agree. If you have a favorite brunch recipe, do share it with us. Mother's Day is Sunday, May 12, 2019. 

Dairy Entrees, Mains, Soups, Salads:
Baked French Toast with Praline Topping
Blintz Souffle by Kim Kushner
Cheese Danish "Deltelach"
Cheesecake Factory- Original Cheesecake (copycat kosher)
Cheesecake Parfait With Strawberries
Chive Cream Cheese Spread
Crabmeat Quiche (Faux)
Crustless Tomato Quiche
Egg Frittata with Potatoes and Peppers
Florentine Noodle Kugel
French Onion Soup (copycat kosher)
French Toast Casserole
Huevos Rancheros
I-Hop Swedish Pancakes with Berries (copycat kosher)
Jalapeno cornbread
Nova Souffle
Romaine Salad with classic Caesar Dressing
Salmon with Fried Onions
Smoked Salmon Chowder
Spinach Quiche
Tomato Cheese Casserole
Ukrainian Cheese Blintzes

Desserts:
Cheese Danish "Deltelach"
Cheesecake Factory- Original Cheesecake (copycat kosher)
Cheesecake Parfait With Strawberries
Cinnabon Cinnamon rolls (copycat kosher)
Hilda's Pound Cake
Nellie & Joe's Key Lime Pie
Strawberry Fool

Beverages:
KosherEye Special Sangria
Lemonade Iced Tea
The Best Bellini Ever

Passover & Passover Friendly Recipes 2019

Welcome to the 2019 KosherEye Passover cookbook featuring new and classic recipes from our personal files,
culinary stars, cookbook authors, favorite brands and our talented readers. Additional recipes added daily! Check back often.
When you make one of our recipes, please photograph it, and post on our Facebook page, Twitter or Instagram!

CLICK HERE for our Passover Recipes Ingredients Substitution Lists

Click here to view the printable 2019 kashrut agency Passover guides.

Starters & Salads
Apple-Beet Herring Appetizer 
Beet Salad  
Bubby Irma's Gefilte Fish 
Cauliflower Cobb Salad 
Cranberry Salad   
Classic Cucumber Salad
KFC Copycat Kosher Coleslaw
Copycat Kosher Mango Quinoa Salad
Garlic Dip
Gefilte Fish  
Gefilte Fish Cutlets 
Gefilte Fish Mold
Gefilte Fish Pate   
Gefilte Fish with Variations 
Green Olive Dip
Guacamole Ritz Cancun
Herbed Garlic Oil
Mango Salsa
Mayim's Quinoa Salad  
Mock Chopped Liver  
Muffin Tin Whitefish Cakes
Orange Salmon Pate
Pastrami Egg Rolls
Salmon Pecan Dip
Salmon and Whitefish Bites with Cucumber Sauce 
Salmon Gefilte Fish 
Sefardi Gefilte Fish 
Smoked Trout Salad 
Strawberry-Mango Salad
"Sweet Gefilte Fish"
Tomato Dip
Waldorf Salad

Soup
Amazing Rutabaga Apple Soup
Betty's Beef Borscht
Carrot Dill Soup
Chicken Meatball and Matzo Ball Soup 
Chicken Soup with Light Matzo Balls
2nd Avenue Deli Matzo Balls  
Floater Matzo Balls
Golden Saffron Broth with Spinach Matzoh Balls
Homemade Vegetable Broth
Matzo Ball Soup by Alon Shaya
New England Style Fish Chowder
Quinoa Gumbo 
"Sinker"Matzo Balls
Triple Berry Fruit Soup 
Vegetarian Matzo Ball Soup
Yemenite Beef Soup

Charoset
Kumquat Charoset
Persian Charoset 
Sefardi-Style Charoset  
Traditional  Charoses - an Heirloom Recipe

Entrees
Poultry
Baked Schnitzel with Nut Crust
Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marvelosa
Chicken Milanese with Herb Tomato Salad
Chicken Roulade, Apricot, Fig & Pistachio Stuffing
Chicken Tempura
Coke Chicken     
Easy Roasted Pepper & Onion Grilled Chicken
Lemon Oven Fried Chicken
No So Basic Chicken Salad
Oven Fried Chicken
Perfect Roast Chicken Stuffed w/Spicy Matzoh Brei
Pungent Shabbat Chicken with Dried Fruit  
Tagine of Chicken  
World's Easiest Baked Chicken

Beef
2nd Avenue Deli Brisket
Brisket Prune Tzimmes
Brisket Like My Grandma Made
Brisket Prune Tzimmes
"Coca Cola" Atlanta Brisket
Brisket Sancocho    
Meatloaf with Apricot Brandy Sauce 
Matzo Lasagna 
Pesach Cholent 
Simple Brisket 
Sweet–and–Sour Pot Roast 
Temple Emanu-el Brisket 

Veal 
Stuffed Breast of Veal 

Lamb
Cranberry Lamb
Oregano Lamb Shanks w/Portobello Mushrooms

Fish
Ayelet's Moroccan Salmon
Bourride (Mediterranean fish stew)  
Cold Poached Halibut with Fennel and Carrots and Lemony-Garlic Sauce 
Gefilte Fish up a Notch & Sauced
Herbed Tilapia in Lemon Butter Sauce
Kani Salad 
Oven Fried Gefilte Fish Cutlets
Poached Salmon Fillet
Salmon Steak with Herb Sauce 
Salmon Stuffed Peppers 
Salune from Baghdad 
Sefardi Gefilte Fish
Shumi's Fish 
Tomato Tuna Tonnato

Dairy
Blintz Casserole 
Crustless Tomato Quiche
Egg Frittata with Potatoes and Peppers
Huevos Rancheros 
Matzo Brei with Mushroom Sour Cream Topping
Mock-aroni and Cheese
Mushroom, Broccoli and Egg Cupcakes 

Vegetarian
Eggplant and Potato Casserole 
Forager's Pie 
Passover Vegetable Lasagna
Spanish Tortilla Espanola 
Vegetable Cutlet
Slow cooker Tzimmes
Vegetable Frittata 
Quinoa Burgers 
Vegetarian Kishke

Sides
Aunt Fanny's Baked Yellow Squash Casserole
Butternut Squash Puree 
Cajun Carrot Fries
Carrot and Sweet Potato Tzimmes
Carrot Tzimmes with Dumplings
Cauliflower Kugel with Green Herb Crust 
Fried Artichokes 
Fried Zucchini
Homemade Horseradish 
Kani Slaw with Mango
Mixed Berry Quinoa with Roasted Almonds
Mushroom Matzo Farfel Casserole
Onion Jam 
Oven Fried Carrots in a Sheet Pan
Passover One Pan Matzoh Kugel
Passover Spinach Matzo Kugel
Passover Vegetarian Kishke 
Potato and Onion Gratin
Potato Kugel
Potato Chip Zucchini Sticks with Lemon Aioli
Quinoa Pilaf 
Red Onion Jam 
Sage-Sweet Potato Mash 
Shabbat Carrot–Apple Kugel      
Stuffed Roasted Onions
Sweet and Sour Beets
The Crispiest Potato Latkes Ever 
Zucchini Casserole with Dill    

In a Class of Its Own
Classic Matzo Brei with Variations
No Fail Matzo Brie 

Desserts
Almond Cake with Peach–Apricot Topping 
Apple Jam Cake  
Betty's Fruit Sorbet
Blueberry-Lemon Parfait 
Butter Pecan Matzoh Crisps 
Caramel Chocolate Flan 
Chewy Almond and Chocolate Sandwiches  
Chocolate Chunkies 
Chocolate Covered Matzo Toffee 
Chocolate Mousse w/Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Chocolate Mousse Flower Pots
Chocolate Dipped Coconut Macaroons
Coconut Panna Cotta with Lime Curd
Crackling Brownie Meringues
Crème Brûlée 
Dark Chocolate Bark 
Debbie's Macaroon Fudge Bars
Panna Cotta 
Florentine Bars
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Flourless Chocolate-Hazelnut Cookies 
Flourless Mousse Cake

Flourless Orange Chocolate Fudge Cupcakes
Forgotten Cookies
Frozen Strawberry Parfait with Basil Meringues
Kolatin Chocolate & Vanilla Mousse Parfait
Indulgent Pesach Tiramisu
Marcy's Cranberry Crunch
Martine's Chocolate Marshmallow Roll 
Mrs. B's Passover Brownie S'mores  
Passover Apple Jam Cake with Sweet Marsala
Passover Apricots Bars
Passover Butter Cookies
Passover "Cake Mix" Cake  
Passover Chocolate Chip Miracle Bars
Passover Farfel Cookies
Passover French Macarons
Passover Lemon Meringue Pie
Passover Linzer Torte
Passover Pecan Bars
Passover Vanilla Coconut Macaroons

Peach or Apple Crisp 
Pear-Chocolate and Candied Orange Cobbler
Sachertorte
Strawberry Fool
Trifle by Rebbetzin Lori Palatnick
Upside–Down Almond Torte  
Vanilla Mousse 
Velvety Chocolate Mousse
White Chocolate Torte
World's Best Chocolate Chip Passover Cookies
Yum Yum Nut Sweets

Other
Almond Milk 
Burmolikos –  Bulgarian Matzo Puffs 
Chocolate Covered Caramelized Matzohs
Fruit Smoothie – Design Your Own
Gaga's  Passover Noodles 
Garlicky–Lemon Aioli 
Heirloom Passover Rolls
Hollandaise/Béarnaise Sauce 
Homemade Immersion Blender Mayonnaise 
Easy Orange Marmalade
Passover Blueberry Muffins
Passover Chremslach
Passover Granola 
Passover Onion Rolls 
Passover Popover Rolls 
Passover Powdered Sugar
Spreadable Strawberry Jam 



Passover Features

Manishtana - 4 Questions in Yiddish & English
OU Complete List of Passover Substitutions 2018 by Carrie Beylus
Passover Substitutions 2019 by Eileen Goltz, Konfidentially Kosher
Ina Garten’s 5 best Passover recipes via Aly Miller & The Nosher 
"Make Your Own" for Passover  
Matzo Brei – 8 Ways
Mayonnaise with the Immerson Blender 
Passover Baking with Penny Eisenberg
Passover Baking with Lisa Koonin 
Passover Recipes Shared by KosherEye Readers
Passover Tips, Links, & Information
Passover with the Stars 2016
Passover All-Stars 
Passover with the Stars - 2014
Passover with the Stars - 2013
Passover with the Stars - 2012
Passover without Plotzing!
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Recipes 
The Passover Table Project 
Vegetarian Matzo Ball Soup – Almost the Real Thing

Videos
How to Make Homemade Matzo Balls
Jewish Home of LA Matzo Brei Recipe Contest
Cooking With Chef Herschel – Pot Roast
Heirloom Passover Rolls
Homemade Mayonnaise for Passover

Guides to Passover 2019 - 5779 (2)

Passover Guides 2019
                                                                                     

Some kashrut agencies have released their 2019 Passover guides,
including information about items that can be used without special Passover certification.  
We will be updating our listings as additional consumer guides become available.

Three versions of the OU 2019 Passover Guide are available:

1. The OU 2019 Passover Guide - Online Version is available HERE

 2. PDF copies of the OU 2019 Passover Guide sections may be downloaded HERE

3. You may order the printed version of the OU 2019 Passover Guide HERE:

The OU 2019 guide is available. Click HERE to see ordering information.  If you are an OU member and you already receive OU's Jewish Action magazine, the guide was mailed along with the spring issue of Jewish Action.  Online Passover information  is available on the OU website at https://oukosher.org/passover/.  Also, the OU app gives you access to Passover 2019 information.

For Star-K Passover Directories, Guides, Abridged Web Edition,
and more, click here: Star-K 2019 Passover Directories and Information
 

Click Here for the CRC Passover 2019 Guide

Click Here for Canada's Passover 2019 Magazine  

 OK Passover Information Coming Soon

Click Here for the OK Passover Information

 
Click HERE for Kashrut.com Passover 2019 Information.

Chabad

Click HERE for Chabad's 2019 Printable Passover Guide

Trader Joe's Products
Click HERE to see Trader Joe's items certified kosher for Passover
by the Kosher Check Kashrut Agency

Eating and Drinking Our Way Through... Israel 2019

Outstanding! The only way to describe the ever-changing food experience of Israel. Over the years the country has expanded its palate and become more sophisticated, more international, but still steeped in middle-eastern pride. The sensational breadth of food choices for the kosher eater is unmatched anywhere in the world. Once again, we ate our way through Jerusalem with a brief sojourn to Tel Aviv. Join us as we share our food journey...

The Waldorf by Hilton
How fortunate we were to stay at this hotel. We spotted a 2-night online special, and we grabbed it since a stay at this property was on our wish list! From the minute that we arrived and when we were greeted by George, the ever- smiling doorman, we knew it was a superb choice. The service, the room, and the amenities were excellent. The food -- Let us tell you about it!

As in most hotels in Israel, breakfast is included. The Waldorf’s breakfast was absolutely lavish in presentation and assortment. In addition to a served menu which featured omelets, smoked salmon benedict and more, there was an extensive (or shall we say an extreme) buffet with hot casseroles, breads, salads, vegetables, fruits, a coffee bar, a juice bar and anything one can think of as a breakfast food. No need to eat again until dinner, but of course, we did!

And then, we were delighted to be invited as guests by the Waldorf for lunch on Shabbos, where we experienced another outstanding meal. The presentation was even larger than the breakfast buffet -- complete with salads, vegetables, deli and hot meats -- veal, chicken, beef, tongue, and of course, dessert. Do be aware that Kiddush grape juice is included, but wine is not. The dining room area is lovely as is the entire hotel.
Click here for our  "conversation" with Waldorf Chef Itzik Mizrachi Barak.

La Régence at The King David
We have previously stayed at The King David, Jerusalem's most historic property which is still the chosen hotel for world leaders and international celebrities. It is also the popular location for "lobby dating" where prospective shidduchim candidates meet and greet. The hotel continues to live up to its much heralded past as an elegant Jerusalem landmark. How honored we were to be hosted for dinner by Haim A. Spiegel, the Director of Food and Beverage for Dan Hotels.

The King David is one of the stars in the prestigious Dan property “lineup” which is found throughout Israel and in Bangalore, India. The La Régence, led by Chef David Biton, is considered one of the top dining rooms in all of Israel. What a meal we had! Chef Biton has been recognized for his imagination, creativity and expertise in using contemporary food ingredients, innovative combinations and lovely presentations. The menu changes seasonally.
 
      
We were privileged to be served an appetizer and dessert tasting selected especially for us by Chef Biton, and then we chose our own entrees.
Appetizers included beef and wild rice crackers served with a horseradish aioli, Cacao and sesame crackers with shredded goose liver, Oxtail consommé with marrow bone,

Tomato leather filled with white fish sea bream salad and veal sweetbreads with cabbage.  We must admit that some in our party were a bit squeamish about the oxtail consommé and the sweetbreads. Those that ventured a taste enjoyed them! 

Between courses we were served a refreshing chilled mint-parsley granita. Excellent!

For our entrees, we selected Fillet of Beef, Lamb Chops, Beef Entrecote, and Wild sea bass schnitzel. Each was perfectly prepared and simply sensational.
Dessert - honestly, we were too full to enjoy the beautiful platter, which included mango fruit sorbet, chocolate olive oil truffles and marzipan cake. The evening was memorable, an exquisite gourmet feast. By the way, The King David's wine menu has been awarded the best of Israel for the 3rd consecutive. The restaurant's sommelier chose one of his favorites to pair with our dinner... Galil Yiron 2014. This wine selection is affordably priced at $27 and is available in the U.S.

                                                                  
               Beef Entrecote at the King David Hotel          2014 Galil Mountain Yiron                       Lamb Cutlets at the King David Hotel
 

The Eucalyptus Restaurant
When you travel to Jerusalem, do not miss this experience. It is a one of a kind restaurant, created and run by a family steeped in the history of the Middle East. The food is a love letter to the past. The executive chef and owner, Moshe Basson, is the entrepreneur behind this restaurant. He is friendly, outgoing and a talented storyteller. Ask him to sit with you and share his family history.
It all started in 1960, when a child (Moshe Basson) celebrated Tu Bishvat (the new year of the trees) by planting a small eucalyptus plant in the yard of his parents’ home in Jerusalem. Under this very tree the First Eucalyptus restaurant was opened by the Basson Family.

The restaurant thrived, as did the tree, and it focused on local and regional produce. Moshe Basson, utilizing his schooling in agriculture and passion for studying ancient script, has created a menu with centuries old regional dishes. In time, he became an authority on herbs, indigenous edible wild plants and their culinary uses.

As the Eucalyptus restaurant thrived and evolved, it has become a landmark for showcasing delicious local food. The Eucalyptus is a member of the Slow Food movement, creating its menu according to the organizations guidelines. Moshe's son Ronny now works with him as well. In addition to the food, we were impressed by the friendly staff and the excellent service.

We were privileged to be hosted by Chef Moshe, and were thoroughly amazed by the number of traditional dishes he presented. Which was our favorite? We could not choose as each was scrumptious. The menu is truly a reflection of Israel, it's aromas and tastes. If you go, be sure and order some of the house specialties, and don't miss the fabulous Maklubah. The "Maklubah unveiling" presentation itself is a show. The star in (addition to the dish) is Chef Moshe!
Unveiling the Maklubah

Click HERE to visit the Eucalyptus website.
And click HERE to enjoy some Eucalyptus restaurant recipes and our conversation with Chef Moshe Basson. 

The Shuk
The very knowledgeable Debra Nussbaum Stepen  of Debra Tours led us on a kosher tasting tour of Machane Yehuda. We think that no visit to Jerusalem is complete without a visit (or two or three) to the shuk. Debra is a licensed tour guide, well-versed in the history and highlights of the area, and shared her recommendations on the best places to eat and shop. (She is also a kosher foodie!) Although her fee is high, $280 for up to 6 people, the tour is one of a kind. We enjoyed every morsel we learned and of course every bite we ate...especially our tasting at The Jachnun Bar!

And more Shuk eating...
How we love Fish'en Chips, The Jachnun Bar, halvah from The Halvah Kingdom,pastries from Berman Bakery, and of course rugelach from Marzipan.

Our Celebrity Coffee - One morning when we were having our coffee at Aroma on Emek Refaim, we were so excited to meet "Amare" ...Amar'e Carsares Stoudemire . Embarrassingly, we admit that we did not know who he was... but he was gracious and friendly anyway, and happy to take photos with many of the other coffee drinkers.. Since that meeting, we have done the research and now understand that he is not only a former American basketball star, a player and owner of Hapoel Jerusalem -- the Israeli basketball team, but also a Israeli winemaker . Whew! 

More Food Glorious Food (and Drink)
One evening, we did sojourn  out of Jerusalem into Tel Aviv, where we attended the KFWE - Kosher Food and Wine Experience presented by Royal Wine and its Israeli importer and distributor Zur World of Wine. The wines of Israel took front and center at this event, alongside outstanding classic and new vintages from around the world. Vintners from France, Italy, Spain, and yes, even the U.S. were represented. Particular favorites included Koenig Brut, Hagafen Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Champagne Baron de Rothschild both the rose and brut, and the creamy, irresistable parve Walders line of liqueurs. The evening's food consisted of lavish buffets presented by some of Israel's most popular restaurants including Skyline, The Meat and Wine Company and Resto. Needless to say, the experience was memorable and we look forward to further tastes of many of these wines! Once again, we must acknowledge and thank David Herzog and the Herzog family. Due to their vision, hard work, innovation and foresight, the Herzog family changed the taste, availability and perception of kosher wine throughout the U.S. and the world, and redefined the kosher wine industry.

And when we weren't eating...
   

The most memorable time we spent in Jerusalem on this trip was our visit to Shalva.  Shalva serves thousands of people with disabilities empowering their families with an  
all-encompassing range of services from the ages of infancy to adulthood. Shalva gives equal access and opportunity to all participants regardless of religion, ethnic background, or financial capability. What began as an afternoon program for eight children in a local apartment, has grown into a national center serving an entire spectrum of Israeli society.

Due to the personal need, generosity and vision of the Malki and Kalman Samuels family, the Shalva facility is now a new, state-of-the-art building.. In addition to a professional staff, Shalva is staffed by trained volunteers, mostly teens and young adults from Yeshivas, schools and seminaries throughout the area. Visiting Shalva was a life changing experience for us. Although we saw young people with heartwrenching disabilities affecting motor skills, speech, vision and brain function, we left with joy knowing that these children have a happy place to spend time and reach their best selves.  Shalva also gives their families a break. We encourage our readers to learn about Shalva by visiting the website shalva.org, and perhaps consider a visit or a donation.

Our granddaughter Shira Kalnitz, who is currently attending MMY seminary in Jerusalem, is one of  Shalva's weekly volunteers, and she will be running with Team Shalva in the Jerusalem Marathon on March 15. If you would like to support the team (all of the donations go to Shalva), please use this link: http://www.run4shalva.org/my/shirakalnitz

Shira with her special friend

If you would like to hear the amazing Shalva band, visit this link: http://www.shalva.org/new/watch-the-shalva-band-on-the-rising-star/

We say L'Hitraot to Israel. We're grateful for  the meaningful, wonderful and delicious time we spent in our homeland, and look forward to "Next Year In Jerusalem"!

Souper Warm-ups!

When the weather outside is frightful. . .
SOUP is so delightful!

SOUPER SOUPS -- 10 Cold Weather Favorites

Tomato Pea Bisque with Faux Kosher Crab
The Easiest Soup Ever
(Thank you Imagine Brand for doing all the work!)

Hearty Lentil Soup by Liz Rueven, Kosherlikeme.com
Mushroom Barley Soup by Russ & Daughters
Smoked Salmon Chowder by Eileen Goltz
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup by Mark Bittman
Slow Cooker Pea Soup - A KosherEye Signature Recipe
Slow Cooker Chicken Soup - A KosherEye Signature Recipe
Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup, Adapted from Le Creuset
Carrot Dill Soup
Split Pea, Potato and Barley Soup

Gourmia Air Fryer - The Fryista

                                                           Gourmia Fryista Air Fryer

Who knew?  At the 2018 International Housewares Show, we had spotted air fryers from several exhibitors,but were not really anxious to try a new countertop appliance. Besides, we’re from the south, and in our language “frying” means deep fry in several inches of oil. After viewing at least 10 different companies introducing various models of air fryers, we decided that on behalf of our readers, we had to stay on top of trends and educate ourselves as to what this gadget can (and we thought, cannot) do. So, we requested 2 test units…a very compact one from DASH, and a family sized air fryer from Gourmia. And, now, all we can say is Double WOW!

The Gourmia 5 quart air fryer is family sized, simple to use, affordably priced and results in crispy, fast cooked results. It uses a system called RadiVection 360-degree technology which provides radiant and convection heat for fast, even, crispy texture.

•  Makes crispy French fries, vegetables, fried chicken and more with just a spray of oil
•  It can roast, grills, bake and defrost
•  RadiVection technology combines radiant & convection heat
•  Takes less than 1/2 of the time of a regular oven
•  Simple controls: 60-minute timer with auto shut-off;
•  Temperature control up to 400° F
•  5-quart fryer basket accommodates family sized quantities of food
•  Removable, non-stick fry basket for easy for easy clean-up
•  Includes recipe book
•  1-year manufacturer's warranty

We highly recommend this unit, (GAF560) for pricing, ease of use, size and functionality. It is family friendly. Buy it here: Gourmia GAF560
Try our recipe for Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer