Weekday Lentil Soup

Lentils are one of the most nutritious foods on the planet used as part of a complete protein in vegetarian diets or used as a low calorie, vitamin and fibre rich part of any diet.  There are many different colors of lentils,  with different cooking times and textures.  Lentils are a staple in the Middle and [...]

Mid Winter Family Shabbat Dinner

This week has been incredibly rainy and gloomy.  With a low cloud deck overhead I listened to my own rhythmic breathing and focused my attention on all the thoughts buzzing around in my head, my inner monologue.  I decided on Monday that it was a week for thanksgiving and I would invite all the immediate family [...]

Ghormeh Sabzi Soup, Persian Green Herb Soup

Living in Beverly Hills affords me the opportunity to be up close and personal with many Iranians.  There is a very large Persian population

Green Bean and Tomato Stew (Fasoulia con Tomat y Carne)

Sometimes everyone in my household is running in a different direction

Lucy’s Picadillo Soup

OK, I confess I have help in my home with all the house work and especially before a party.  A wonderful women originally from El Salvador

Seven Spice Turkey Chili

In January, beautiful, warm, blue skied days give way to chilly crisp nights in Southern California.  One may think that this is not much of a winter, but it is enough to kindle the appetite for warm filling meals.  Turkey chili is not only rib sticking, spicy, and delicious, but is also a little lower [...]

Bamya With Stuffed Kooba

BAMYA WITH BEEF STUFFED KOOBA Okra Stew with Ground Meat Dumplings   My vivacious friend  Nina is an Israeli American whose family was originally from Romania.  Her husband is originally from Iraq.  As a result, Nina knows how to make all of the most amazing Israeli, Iraqi, Romanian, and Sephardic dishes. Nina’s recipes are in her head, [...]