We've all been there. Standing in the kitchen, paging through a cookbook or scrolling online, in search of an interesting and easy recipe. Far away from our familiar kitchens and supermarkets, we are faced with the task of not only coming up with something different, but something that doesn't require (at best) use of a calculator for the conversions or (at worst) a plane ticket to find the missing ingredient that is only available in aisle 3 of the grocery store back home.

Coming soon is a solution to that problem- not just a recipe book, but so much more. This book will feature recipes from all over the world, representing the many different nationalities that now call Israel their home. But all ingredients will be ones available in the average Israeli supermarket, and will include the Hebrew translations. No more wondering what the name of the cut of meat you need is, or just what the difference between פטרוזיליה and כוסברה is, and which one you should use in your chicken soup. Measurements and temperatures will all be appropriate for the Israeli kitchen.

But there's more. Putting together a cookbook is no small feat- and the old adage that "many hands make light work" definitely holds true. This a joint community effort- and a showcase for talent. The goal is that all the photographs, the recipes, the work that goes into making this something special, come from within. To that end, very soon we will be asking for recipe contributions, and volunteers to help with production and testing.

And test we will. Over the next few months, taste- testing evenings will be held. Some will be open to the general public, and some to smaller groups, but all will feature food prepared according to the recipes that will be featured in the book. Come meet new and old friends and neighbours while eating delicious food!

On a serious note. As we approach winter 2009-2010, the statistics regarding the number of Israelis- children, parents, grandparents, sabras, new and old immigrants- living below the poverty line is terrifying. 22%- more than 1,100,000 Israeli citizens, are not sure where their next meal will come from. Several trustworthy and honest organizations are hard to work helping combat the problem- and all money raised from the sales of the recipe book will go to support their cause.

So what now? Spread the word! If you are interested in becoming involved- join the Facebook group, or send me an email. Over the next few weeks more details will be sent out, but for now start thinking about what recipes you would like to share, and what you can do to get involved. And the book needs a name...all suggestions welcome!! (read less)

We've all been there. Standing in the kitchen, paging through a cookbook or scrolling online, in search of an interesting and easy recipe. Far away from our familiar kitchens and supermarkets, we are faced with the task of not only coming up with something different, but something that doesn't require (at best) use of a calculator for the conversions or (at worst) a plane ticket to find the missing ingredient that is only available in aisle 3 of the grocery store back home.

Coming soon is a... (read more)