RootOne Activity Book

ACTIVITY BOOK jewishatlanta.org/what-we-do/our-initiatives/rootone/

THE ACTIVITY BOOK 1. Cooking Israeli Food

How to Make Hummus and Pita

2. Israel Through Art

Exploring Identities Through Creativity

3. Taste of Memories

Honoring the Fallen Through Cooking

4. “Yalla Challah”

Master the Art of Challah Baking

The hummus and pita dish is a staple in Israeli cuisine, sparking endless debates over the "perfect" hummus recipe. Warm or cold? Topped with chickpeas or not? How much tahini?

Now’s your chance to create your own ideal version!

Hummus Recipe Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed (10 oz or about 1 1/4 cups) 1/4 teaspoon baking soda 1 garlic clove, peeled 1/2 cup high-quality tahini 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Pinch of cumin 3 ice cubes 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions: 1. Boil chickpeas with garlic and baking soda until soft (15-20 minutes). Skim off skins if desired.

2. Blend chickpeas with ice cubes, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and cumin. Add reserved cooking water for smoother consistency.

3. Serve drizzled with olive oil, paprika, or cumin, alongside warm pita.

Pita Recipe Ingredients (for 10 pitas): 4 cups all-purpose flour (or mixed with whole wheat/spelt) 1 tablespoon dry yeast 2 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 cups water (adjust as needed) 1/2 teaspoon salt

Steps: 1. Mix flour and yeast, then add other ingredients. Knead until smooth.

2. Let the dough rise for 1 hour. Divide into 10 balls and let rest.

3. Flatten and bake on a hot surface (480°F) until puffed (3-4 minutes).

4. Wrap in a towel immediately to keep soft.

Host Tip: Prepare the dough ahead of the event and ensure you have all ingredients and tools ready.

Israel is a melting pot of diverse cultures, including the rich Moroccan heritage. One way to celebrate this heritage is through art, such as creating hamsa mosaics. The hamsa, a handshaped symbol, is believed to ward off the evil eye and bring good fortune.

Hamsa Project Ideas: Mosaic coasters or wall hangings Decorated clay or dough hamsas (air-dry dough works well) Painted or jeweled hamsa designs Symbolism of the Hamsa: The hamsa often includes symbols like eyes, fish, or Stars of David, and is commonly adorned in protective blue tones.

Host Tip: Provide all necessary art supplies, such as mosaic tiles, paint, and clay. Prepare examples or templates for inspiration.

"Taste of Memories" is a heartfelt initiative that commemorates fallen Israel Defense Forces soldiers and Israeli victims of terror by preparing their favorite recipes and sharing their life stories.

How to Host This Activity: 1. Visit Taste of Memories and select a recipe and story to share.

2. Purchase all ingredients and prepare to cook the dish during the event.

3. While cooking, discuss the story of the person behind the recipe, honoring their memory.

This activity combines culinary exploration with a meaningful tribute, making it a touching and memorable experience for all participants.

Challah is a staple of the Friday night table in most Israeli homes. Making it is both a skill and an art, with endless variations in braiding techniques and toppings. Let’s bake challah together and create unique designs to make it truly special.

Challah Recipe Ingredients: 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (500 grams) 1 heaping tablespoon dry yeast or 0.9 oz (25 grams) fresh yeast 4 heaping tablespoons sugar 1 egg 1/4 cup oil 3/4 cup warm water (200 ml) 1 teaspoon salt Topping Options: 1 beaten egg + 1 teaspoon oil Sesame seeds, za'atar, or sprinkles

Instructions: 1. Mix the Ingredients: If using dry yeast, combine it with the flour and sugar. Add egg, oil, and water, then mix.

For fresh yeast, dissolve it with sugar and warm water, let it foam, and then mix with the other ingredients.

2. Knead the Dough: Knead until smooth and elastic. Adjust water or flour as needed.

3. Let It Rise: Cover and let the dough rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

4. Shape and Braid: Lightly flour your surface, shape the dough, and braid into desired styles. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with toppings.

5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown. Optionally, add two ice cubes to the oven for extra moisture.

Learn Challah Braiding Techniques: Watch these tutorials for braiding inspiration: Classic Challah Braid Challah Prince Braiding Styles

Host Tip: Prepare the dough ahead of time to allow for rising. Ensure you have rolling pins and baking trays ready for use.