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March 12, 2025 in Food Tourah
Parshat Ki Tissa – 21 parshiot down, only 33 more to go!
The parsha begins with a census in which each person counted must contribute a half shekel. It then goes on to describe the laver (the “sink” in the Tabernacle where the priests wash their hands and feet before and after engaging in holy work). Bezalel and Oholiab are assigned their roles as designers and crafters of the Tabernacle and all of its contents. A reminder to observe Shabbat comes immediately after the section about building the Mishkan. These somewhat disparate pieces have a thread running through them that everyone has a contribution to make to the community.
The main event of Ki Tissa is the Golden Calf. The Israelites, nervous that Moses has been gone on the mountain for too long, ask Aaron what to do. He has them donate their gold, which is fashioned into the idol. While still on the mountain, God tells Moses what is happening and that He plans to destroy the stiff-necked, rebellious Israelites. Moses talks God out of it. But when Moses descends and sees what is happening for himself, he smashes the tablets of the Ten Commandments in a furious rage. The people are punished. The relationship between God and Moses grows even closer as God’s presence is visible in the Tent of Meeting only when Moses is in the Tent, and they are conferring “face to face”. When he re-ascends the mountain to obtain a second set of tablets, Moses has a vision of the divine pass over him, and he hears God say the words that are the thirteen attributes of God recited at every festival Torah service (34:6). When Moses descends the second time, his face is so radiant that he must wear a veil as he is too much for others to look at.
Let’s toast to second chances. For the mixologist’s among us, a Second Chance Cocktail echoes the forgiveness that God ultimately grants the Israelites in Parshat Ki Tissa.
The parsha’s emphasis on Shabbat observance brings us straight to the traditional chicken and potatoes. This Honey Chicken is rinsed as the priests washed in the laver. Its sweetness reminds us of the sweet transformation that comes when we are redeemed from our sins and the golden color reminds us of the terrible sin in this parsha. Pair it with Crispy Smashed Potatoes, their golden edges calling to mind Moses smashing the tablets in a moment of fury.
For something lighter, Sweet Citrus Rosemary Medley works beautifully as an unexpected light dessert or even a vibrant side dish. Its bright effervescent flavor recalls the radiance of Moses’ face after his transformation.
Bonus dessert: 1234 Cake, named for the simple ratio of its four main ingredients – a playful nod to the counting of the census described in the parsha. Yum.
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.
