Food Torah – Yitro

February 12, 2025 in Food Tourah

The parsha opens with Moses reuniting with his wife and two sons, brought to him by his father-in-law, Yitro – the parsha’s namesake. Moses describes the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt and through the wilderness for Yitro, who quickly recognizes Moses’ immense burden as their leader. Yitro quickly sees how big a job leading the Israelites is. He recommends that Moses delegate some responsibilities by devising a system of judges who can handle minor disputes, allowing Moses to focus on more significant matters. Moses follows this advice to create a more sustainable system of leadership.

The story shifts to Mount Sinai, where God instructs Moses to have the Israelites prepare to meet Him.  They are given strict instructions to purify themselves and keep their distance from the mountain. In this context, God tells Moses to remind the Israelites that throughout their journey out of Egypt, He “bore them on eagles’ wings” (Exodus 19:4) – a powerful image of divine care, closeness, and protection. Amid thunder, lightning, and the sound of a shofar (or horn) blast, God descends and delivers the Ten Commandments, establishing the core principles of the covenant between God and the Israelites.

At Yitro’s suggestion, Moses establishes a layered system of leadership delegating responsibility so the community can function more smoothly.  As a nod to this idea, we’re leaning into dishes that are built in layers.  Moussaka or Zucchini Lasagna – one meat and one dairy, take your pick! As a bonus, the Zucchini Lasagna is also gluten free. Carrying the themes of the week forward, Ten Commandment Salad adds another delicious layer and pairs perfectly with either main dish.

Our last two recipes draw inspiration from Mount Sinai, where much of the parsha unfolds.  Mashed Potato Mountains elevate a classic side into something extra special – perfected deliciousness!  (If you’re serving a meat main, skip the parmesan and sub non-dairy yogurt in place of the buttermilk.)  And to finish it all off, we present to you Rocky Mountain Avalanche Bars.  Crunchy, sweet, and a little indulgent, these treats are sure to bring anyone who wandered away from the table during the main course rushing back for dessert!

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.com.