Jew-Ish

Synopsis

A New York Times bestseller!

A brilliantly modern take on Jewish culinary traditions for a new generation of readers, from a bright new star in the culinary world.

When you think of Jewish food, a few classics come to mind: chicken soup with matzo balls, challah, maybe a babka if you're feeling adventurous. But as food writer and nice Jewish boy Jake Cohen demonstrates in this stunning debut cookbook, Jewish food can be so much more.  

In Jew-ish, he reinvents the food of his Ashkenazi heritage and draws inspiration from his husband's Persian-Iraqi traditions to offer recipes that are modern, fresh, and enticing for a whole new generation of readers. Imagine the components of an everything bagel wrapped into a flaky galette latkes dyed vibrant yellow with saffron for a Persian spin on the potato pancake, best-ever hybrid desserts like Macaroon Brownies and Pumpkin Spice Babka! Jew-ish features elevated, yet approachable classics along with innovative creations, such as: 

• Jake's Perfect Challah 
• Roasted Tomato Brisket 
• Short Rib Cholent 
• Iraqi Beet Kubbeh Soup 
• Cacio e Pepe Rugelach 
• Sabich Bagel Sandwiches, and
• Matzo Tiramisu. 

Jew-ish is a brilliant collection of delicious recipes, but it's much more than that. As Jake reconciles ancient traditions with our modern times, his recipes become a celebration of a rich and vibrant history, a love story of blending cultures, and an invitation to gather around the table and create new memories with family, friends, and loved ones. 

Summary

Chapter 1: The Genesis of a Jew-Ish Identity

The chapter begins with Julie's own story of growing up in a secular Jewish household and feeling both apart from her Jewish peers and disconnected from her Jewish heritage. She introduces the term "Jew-ish" to describe the growing number of people who identify with Jewish culture and values but may not practice Judaism strictly or consider themselves fully Jewish.

Example: Julie shares the experience of Sarah, a college student who was raised in a non-religious Jewish family but still felt a strong connection to Jewish culture through her grandmother's stories and her involvement in Jewish student groups.

Chapter 2: The Search for Meaning

This chapter explores the various reasons why people seek out a Jew-ish identity. Julie discusses the importance of cultural heritage, the desire for a sense of community, and the need for spiritual connection. She also addresses the challenges that Jew-ish individuals may face, such as navigating different communities and finding acceptance.

Example: Julie interviews Rachel, a middle-aged woman who converted to Judaism later in life after being drawn to its rituals and beliefs. Despite her new religion, Rachel still struggles with acceptance from some members of the Jewish community.

Chapter 3: Jew-Ish in the Kitchen

This chapter focuses on the role of food in Jewish culture and identity. Julie explores the ways that Jew-ish individuals use food to connect with their heritage, nourish their bodies, and celebrate special occasions. She presents recipes for traditional Jewish dishes and discusses the symbolism and significance behind them.

Example: Julie shares a recipe for her grandmother's matzo ball soup and explains how it has become a cherished tradition in her family, evoking memories of home and Jewish holidays.

Chapter 4: Jew-Ish in the Community

This chapter examines the importance of community for Jew-ish people. Julie discusses the various ways that Jew-ish individuals connect with others, including through synagogues, Jewish organizations, and social events. She explores the challenges of finding a sense of belonging and fostering intergenerational connections.

Example: Julie profiles a Jewish community center that offers a wide range of programs for people of all ages, including holiday celebrations, cultural workshops, and volunteer opportunities.

Chapter 5: Jew-Ish in the World

The final chapter considers the global impact of Jew-ish identity. Julie discusses the rise of anti-Semitism and the importance of interfaith dialogue. She also explores the ways that Jew-ish values and principles can contribute to a more just and compassionate world.

Example: Julie shares the story of a group of young Jew-ish activists who are working to combat racism and promote equality in their community.