Food Tourah: Eikev

August 13, 2025 in Food Tourah

Because life so often happens around food, we’re spending the year exploring the weekly parshiot and finding connections to each week’s Shabbat menu. 46 parshiot down, 8 more to go!

In Eikev (“As a Result”), as the Israelites inch closer and closer to the Promised land, Moses continues to recount their experiences in the wilderness.  He urges them not to fear the nations they will encounter, assuring them that God will clear the way for them, just as He did when they left Egypt at the start of their journey.  Moses emphasizes that when the Israelites follow God’s laws, they will enjoy His favor. He recalls how God cared for them in the desert – providing manna, because man “does not live on bread alone” (Deut. 8:3) – and how their clothing never wore out during the 40-year journey.

Moses describes God’s care as that of a father for his child, urging the Israelites to follow and revere God’s ways for God is bringing them to “a land of wheat and barley, of vines, figs, and pomegranates, a land of olive trees and honey” (Deut. 8:8)  Conversely, Moses reminds them of the consequences for those who disobey, recalling the golden calf incident and the decree barring the first generation out of Egypt from entering the Promised Land.  The parsha lays out the essentials for living a good life – showing reverence for God, walking in God’s ways, following His commandments, and loving God.

Moses says that man cannot live on bread alone, but is that really true?  We’re going to challenge this idea throughout this week’s menu, starting with Challah Bruschetta, Two Ways – the perfect appetizer for a leisurely Shabbat meal.  You may have noticed that the parshiot in Deuteronomy involve a lot of retelling – some might even say they are “reusing” the same stories.  As a playful nod to that, try these Vegan Twice Baked Potatoes.  If you’re not serving meat, use real milk and butter, add some cheese, and you’ve got a hearty main dish!

Back to the bread theme, Pulled Honey Bourbon Chicken Challah sounds unexpectedly delicious!  If that’s a step too far for you, try this Crispiest Chicken Schnitzel instead – made with challah bread crumbs!  Pair either dish with Pearl Barley with Figs, Apple & Pomegranate, bringing together several of the foods the Israelites are told await them in the Promised Land.  Finish it all off with (bread again!) Challah Bread Pudding – and we have to mention that this recipe comes from a website called Yay Kosher!  We’ll definitely be checking that one again. 😊

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