Yesterday, Jewish Student Association and Culinary Club united together to make delicious Challah bread in the morning. They combined culture and food, which so often overlap. Listening to Israeli music, the JSA shared one of their most iconic -and delicious- traditions.
Mrs. Rachel Ockner and Ms. Madison Wells, staff leaders of the JSA, prepared the fluffy Challah the night before, allowing it 3 hours to rise.
Students from both JSA and Culinary Club poured in, excited to create the signature Challah braid. After the loaves were beautifully shaped, they brushed the top with an egg yolk wash to give them a shiny, golden-brown finish. Finally, before popping in the oven, they sprinkled with their choice of cinnamon sugar, poppy seeds, or everything bagel seasoning.
While working, the chefs talked about Challah bread, cooking, and culture.
Ockner said, “I think it’s the most delicious bread, personally. It’s a little bit sweet, but you can put savory toppings on it, and when it’s right out of the oven, it’s just the best thing I’ve ever tasted.”
Looking fondly at the working students, Ms. Yvonne Coberly said, “I love seeing kids, especially if they didn’t get to do culinary class, having the opportunity to learn, make food, and make new friends together.”
“It’s nice to learn about other types of food that we can make, like we did a Greek food lab the other day too. It’s just fun to make food from different cultures,” stated Avery Krenz, member of Culinary Club.
Challah holds tons of cultural significance for the Jewish people. Memories and tradition seem to be woven into those golden braids.
During the holidays, the things that bring people together are, “Food and tradition, like saying prayers and eating food with your family,” Said Olivia Grinfeld, a member of JSA.
“This recipe we’re using is my best friend’s mom’s recipe. And so I think about my family and friends. We lived in Spain together, and baked a ton of Challah. You are also supposed to make Challah every Friday for Shabbat dinner, so I think of my family eating Shabbat dinner together.” Recalled Ockner, flaunting Challah bread earrings.
The loaves came out fluffy and delicious, and students enjoyed making this important piece of Jewish tradition with their own hands. Everyone was smiling and laughing as these two clubs, usually separate, came together to celebrate good food and friends.
