Why is This Week Different from Others?

So, you ask why is this week different than all others (the 5 question if you are keeping track). Yes, the week of Passover is a special one and that in part makes it different. But really what makes it different? For one the wonderful tradition of having a sedar and retelling the story of Passover every year at this time. Other differences.....the holiday ends with Easter at its door. And on top of that its the KIS creator's b'day (yes, I will be 25 again!).

Haroset made better with wine - Mom's recipe

And the differences continue as a prepped for a sedar at our lovely friend's the Manson's house. Usually my Mom hosts us but this year its just not possible with her mobility issues, yes she is having her hip replacement surgery on Monday (the last day of Passover). There I was in the kitchen baking Passover treats (requested by my friend Romina) 1) a b'day cake since it was Romina's b'day 4/15 and she loves a chocolate flourless cake so easy...made my double nut chocolate torte ready to be lit with candles. In addition, what Passover would be complete without Matzo Roca (recipe here), yes the true reason to consume matzo during Passover. And I cannot forget to make my Mom's charoset, although she claims not hers anymore but truly mine. So wine, nuts, honey and apples never tasted so good. 

Matzo Roca

As I wrapped up my cooking frenzy I relaxed by watching the season premiere of Mad Men - starting off during the best year ever - yes 1969!

One more thing......
I must share Romina's delicious charoset recipe, a variation I have never had but loved:

double fisting the matzo roca

2 apples peeled and cored
2 whole lemons including skin (cut them in slices to get seeds out)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp + more if you like it
1/2 tsp ground ginger
2 c. chopped almonds (trader joes roasted unsalted)
3/4 c. sugar
grind in food processor until its as fine as you like.

Happy b'day Ro!

Chag Sameach!!!