Food Tourah – Vayeitzi

December 3, 2024 in Food Tourah

Parshat Vayeitzei – 7 parshiot down, only 47 more to go!

Vayeitzei begins as Jacob leaves Beer-Sheba, fleeing from his brother Esau.  He stops for the night and when he sleeps, he dreams. He dreams of angels ascending and descending a stairway/ladder reaching to heaven. God promises to protect him and reaffirms God’s covenant with Abraham and Isaac. Jacob arrives in Haran and is immediately smitten with Rachel.  He works for his Uncle Laban for seven years to earn the right to marry Rachel. However, after seven years, Laban tricks Jacob into marrying Rachel’s older sister, Leah.  A week later, Jacob marries Rachel as well, agreeing to work another seven years for Laban.  Leah gives Jacob 4 sons, while Rachel struggles with infertility.  The sisters’ relationship is fraught, marked with rivalry and dissatisfaction.  After many years, Rachel finally has a son – Joseph. Over the years, Jacob’s family grows large with the births of his children, and he prospers despite Laban’s attempts to cheat him. Eventually, Jacob decides to return to Canaan with his family and possessions.

With this week’s menu for Vayeitzei, we invite you to explore themes of angels and dreams!  First, enjoy this  Creamy Dreamy Vodka Pasta followed up with a delicious Chocolate Dream Dessert.  One recipe is vegan and the other is loaded with dairy – something for everyone!

Naturally we also had to suggest an Angel Food Cake recipe.  And because we believe you can never have too much dessert, we’re also recommending Choco-Bliss Snack Cakes.  A delicious and perfect little tribute to the bliss Rachel felt when she finally had a son.

Finally, focusing on a different thread in Vayeitzei: if you are baking your own challah this week, check out these videos of the Challah Prince and his intricate braids.  His creations beautifully echo the intertwined lives of Rachel and Leah.

B’tayavon and Shabbat Shalom,
Alison (Baraf) & Sarah (Roark)

To read past installments of Food Tourah – Click Here.

For a more in-depth look at this week’s parsha, visit Sefaria.org