A SMOKY SHABBAT MENU

This week, we reach one of the most pivotal moments in our history: standing at the foot of Mount Sinai to receive the Ten Commandments. The Torah describes a scene of overwhelming sensory power—the mountain was wrapped in a thick cloud of smoke, and the sound of the Shofar grew louder and louder as the foundations of our faith were laid down. It was a moment of fire, cloud, and ultimate clarity.

To honor this “smoky” revelation, our menu features deep, charred, and fire-kissed flavors. Just as the smoke at Sinai signaled a life-changing message, these dishes use smoky spices and charred textures to bring a bit of that mountain-top intensity to your Shabbat table.

THE WEEKLY CHALLAH

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SMOKIN’ BABA

We’re starting our meal with the ultimate “fire-kissed” dish. By charring the eggplant skins until they are blackened and blistered, we infuse the flesh with a natural creaminess and a deep, wood-fired aroma. It’s the perfect way to bring that Sinai smoke to the table. Serve it with warm pita, challah or fresh veggies for a healthy, fiber-rich start.

STUFFED COLLARD GREENS

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More Love

Move over cabbage rolls! We’re taking sturdy, vibrant collard green leaves—which stay beautifully intact and “bunchy” like the foliage at the foot of Mount Sinai—and stuffing them with a savory, protein-rich filling.

To truly honor the “Smoky Revelation” of Yitro, we’re seasoning these rolls with smoked salt. This subtle tweak infuses the entire dish with a wood-fired depth that mimics the cloud of smoke that covered the mountain as we received the Ten Commandments. These greens are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with calcium and fiber, and they serve as a beautiful culinary metaphor: precious “content” wrapped in a strong, protective leaf. It’s a hearty, wholesome centerpiece that feels like a true labor of love.

COLORED CAULIFLOWER

I love the visual of this dish! To keep it on-theme, I recommend adding a generous dusting of smoked paprika before roasting. It transforms the “colorful” florets into “smoky” gems, adding a savory umami hit that complements the natural nuttiness of the cauliflower.

ANCHO CHILI SWEET POTATOES

Ancho chiles have a naturally mild, raisin-like sweetness and a wonderful smoky undertone. These potatoes are roasted until tender with just enough kick to echo the fire of the revelation. They are hearty, healthy, and a total crowd-pleaser.

MEXICAN CHOCOLATE PIE

We’re ending with a chocolate experience that has a deep, “hidden” soul. For an extra smoky Sinai twist, add a tiny pinch of chipotle powder to the filling. The chipotle provides a subtle, smoky heat that makes the dark chocolate feel even richer and more sophisticated.

For last year’s Shabbat Menu Yitro click here.