My Japanese-Canadian heritage prevents me from being anything but knowledgable about the true story of Passover, so I will not fill this post with the meanings or symbolism of the Passover Seder. If you feel so inclined, you can always google or wiki it. This post is about the delicious food that comes with it.
We’re lucky enough to be included in on the Shiffman’s Passover Seder each year. And over the years, the Seder has taken on many forms. 10 years ago, at my first Shiffman Seder, it was probably the most “traditional” where everyone sits down and takes turns reading from the Haggadah. I remember being terrified of having to read, afraid that I’d pronounce the words all wrong and be scorned. Looking back now, I can’t believe how ridiculous that thought was because in the years to follow, the Shiffman Seder became less and less traditional. The Hagaddah became more and more abbreviated, there was no group reading. In an effort to really shake things up, one year they even had an Indian food Seder, (because there are Sephardic Jews in India you know…).
This year with new additions around the table, there was a conscious effort to go back to a more traditional Seder, which meant a sit-down affair.
The reading takes place, and there’s some singing as well. My favourite part, (although not totally traditional, but helpful visually) is acting out the plagues.
More reading, and then the eating begins!
And just when I was silently thanking denim manufacturers for adding spandex to women’s jeans, the main courses were served. I’m was so full that I didn’t take any photos of the main parts of the meal which included baked chicken, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a vegetable kugel and a new addition to the Passover table…
Dessert followed and as full as I was, I couldn’t help but devour a totally delicious piece of cheesecake from Whole Foods AND…
Most people, other than my father-in-law, look at me like I’m crazy when I say that I love Jewish food and as you could probably tell from this post, the food served at Passover is some of my favourite. Thanks Shiffman’s for a wonderful evening!
Call Me a Food Lover... 