The Power of Food

I love food. So much. Food is a glorious aspect of daily life. The flavors, textures, sweet, savory, and umami components. It’s a magnificent roller coaster for the palate and taste buds. I love the process of shopping for the food, cooking the food, and most importantly eating the food. I look forward to each meal. The way to any Jew’s heart is through their stomach. When your stomach is happy, you are happy. A good crispy schnitzel sandwich with creamy sauce, crunchy vegetables, and toasted bread can fix anyone’s day.

When it comes to Passover, my feelings for food are not comparable. Eating on Passover is just to survive, whereas during the year, food makes me thrive.

I know that I am not alone in feeling this, especially for those who cannot eat kitniyot or even gebrochts. That means no matzah pizza, I know, horrific! No rice, no matzah balls. The joy and excitement that comes from food is instantly and largely restricted. Especially when you are the one responsible for all the Passover cooking at your house. Everything must be bought beforehand, cooking must start days before, and the frantic recipe searching ensues. Some people don’t use Kosher for Pesach oils and must make their own, can you imagine? The number of restrictions that Jews have when it comes to Passover is outstanding. I am familiar with the stress of searching for recipes, jotting everything down, trying them, and noticing the large difference of taste, texture, and flavor. Pesach is a holiday, it’s seven days, you are supposed to enjoy every second of it. Instead of feeling like you’re back in an exile, eating stale matzah and potato starch desserts.

That is why so many Jews book Passover programs with highly esteemed and professional caterers and chefs. The food will be amazing most of the time. Let’s all imagine it for a second. Mouthwatering barbeque roasted brisket, crispy and perfectly salted French fries, crunchy and crispy salads dressed beautifully, savory, and luscious soups, and fudgy warm brownies. Let’s talk about the breakfast buffets with pancakes, waffles, cereals, yes- you’re reading this correctly- jams, cheeses, fruit, coffee, the list goes on and on. The tea rooms that are open 24/7 for those who have nighttime cravings and want something to munch on. Or the midnight restaurants in the hotel for those who need a full meal before they hit the hay. Each mealtime on a Passover program is something to look forward to. It’s not the same dish every meal and not the dreaded leftovers that kids and even adults don’t want. There is no stress to make matzah balls that are gebrochts friendly for your in-laws that are coming over for Seder night. Or your cousin that is allergic to eggs which basically blocks out every kosher for Passover dessert.

There is nothing to worry about, because you are going on a Passover program, and you will enjoy the food. Make sure you book a program that seems fitting, enjoy your stay, and be sure to let us know how the food was!