FEATURE · ALL YOU NEED IS LOAF
ALL YOU NEED IS LOAF
STORY BY
LAUREN GALVAN
Ma d
v o e l . . . h t i w e
If you’ve ever wondered why certain types of bread continue to be the center of many holidays, here is a deeper look into the history and evolution of our favorite holiday treats.
CHALLAH
BRAID IN THE BLESSINGS A traditional Jewish holiday is not complete without a loaf of challah at the center of the table to bring everyone together. The braided bread that has been around for hundreds of years is most commonly present during the Sabbath, which is from Friday sundown to Sunday sundown. Baker Manley Gilardi, the owner of Yallah Challah, explained that although it’s somewhat outdated, the women of the house are usually the ones baking the bread to bring light and blessings throughout the process. “During the time that you are making the challah, you can pray for anything, whether someone is sick or you’re looking for that job that you are hoping is going to come your way,” Gilardi said. Growing up, challah was at every high holiday and Sabbath dinner in the Gilardi family. According to Gilardi, there is a blessing that is done over the bread where you thank God for the food that is about to nourish your body. When Gilardi decided to start her baking business, she chose to stray from the classic recipe. Not only does she make the bread with different toppings and infusions such as Oreo, lemon curd, and jalapeño, but they are entirely vegan. “Making challah is not a fast process. It takes a lot of time. The more you knead it, the more fluffy and soft it is,” Gilardi said. “It is definitely made with love.”
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