Food Torah – Vayikra

April 2, 2025 in Food Tourah

Parshat Vayikra – 24 parshiot down, only 30 more to go!

Full steam ahead into the third book of the Torah.  In Vayikra (“He called”), the opening portion of Leviticus, God details to Moses the various offerings brought in the Mishkan.  Among these are sacrifices burnt on the altar, meal offerings of flour and oil, peace offerings, and sacrifices for unwitting sins. Some offerings are consumed by fire on the altar, transforming them into smoke with a pleasing aroma before G-d, while others are eaten as part of a sacred ritual. This parsha also establishes the requirement to add salt to certain offerings, known as covenant of salt, a symbol of the enduring bond between G-d and the Israelites.

With all this talk of fire and fragrance, we leaned into smoky, aromatic flavors that turn simple ingredients into mouthwatering dishes. Charred Vegetable Ragu and Burnt Cauliflower showcase fire’s ability to bring out the best in our veggies. Mom the House Smells Great Roasted Chicken or Pan Roasted Fish with Aromatic Herbs will have everyone drifting to the table, drawn in by the tantalizing smells. Pair either dish with Fragrant Basmati Rice to complete the sensory experience.  For dessert, Espresso Cake Can You Smell the Coffee – “automatic-droolomatic”, according to its author – keeps the aroma theme going.  Or lean into the covenant of salt, with Sea Salt Chocolate Chip Cookies, where a touch of salt enhances sweetness just as our connection to tradition elevates our Shabbat table.

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

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