Ramadan and Spring Equinox Juxtapose

In 2023 Ramadan and Spring Equinox will come along side by side. The Spring Equinox is usually on either March 19th, 20th, or 21st. This year it falls on Monday, March 20, 2023. The day and night will be equal in lenghth on this day, beckoning a time of renewal and growth. As it is…

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Shawarma Torta for Ramadan

It’s the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. It is a month-long period when self-restraint and self-reflection is practiced and Muslims fast with no food or drink from sunrise to sunset. For Muslims, fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the soul and have empathy for those in the world who…

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Lentil Fritters

It’s the start of Lent and a time when many choose to give up a favorite food as penitence and a symbol of sacrifice. Christian’s will fast and pray during Lent, and in many parts of the world Ash Wednesday and beginning of Lent is kicked off with various festivities,  such as in Greece with…

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Date Nut Oatmeal

We just got hit by another giant storm this weekend, and I’m pretty sure we will soon have no worries over the California drought. Cold wet days cause us cabin fever and that requires for hearty warm sustenance to keep us mollified. Good old oatmeal is the best for morning breakfasts and the awesome people…

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Saffron Sugar Crystals with Minted Tea

While the days are shorter and the air becomes cold and crisp, as darkness falls, we find ourselves craving warmth, something that evokes coziness. A hot cup of tea is always inviting this time of year and you can make your tea time sweeter with a special addition. This winter season I have found myself…

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Mango Lassi (Mango Shake)

Mango Lassi is essentially the Indian version of a Mango shake. However, Indians usually make their mango flavored milk shakes with yogurt or buttermilk as it is originally a yogurt based drink from the state of Punjab. During the hot months in India, while mangoes are at the peak of the season, Mango Lassi is…

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Extra Sweet Eid Celebrations with Mango Jalebi

As Ramadan comes to an end and celebrations are to commence marking the end of the month long Muslim tradition of fasting, a dark shadow follows the Muslim celebration of Eid this year. Eid is equivalent to a Christmas celebration for Muslim people and festivities are grand. However, this year on the brink of Eid…

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Creamy Stuffed Dates

I posted this recipe in a roundup of Date recipes for Ramadan last year, but I thought it deserved a solo repost. The richness of the cream cheese compliments sweet ripe dates perfectly.  Topped with nutty pistachios it is the perfect combination.  These Creamy Stuffed Dates are delicious to start or end your meal with. Print…

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