Kosher for Passover

While I stick to my reasoning of making aliyah for the tomatoes, another added perk is being here during the Jewish holidays. Many would agree that Passover is one of the more labor-intensive holidays. This 8 day celebration has probably the most preparation in terms of cooking and cleaning. No holiday would be complete without a festive meal (or two or three) and we even have a few days off and shorter work days to make the holiday complete.

Growing up in America I distinctly remember the "Kosher for Passover" aisle in the supermarket. Once we hauled up the dishes from the basement and put shelving paper on the counter tops it was time to go food shopping. There was your typical "Jewish food" and ingredients that one would expect in America, but after 8 days I was always itching for a slice of pizza. I never considered not keeping the holiday, but it was certainly an effort.

In Israel it is all just easier. Instead of one or two aisles in the supermarket, the entire place becomes kosher for Passover. Before the holiday begins you can of course still find bread and pasta, but those items that are kosher for Passover are clearly labeled and interspersed throughout the store. Moreover, the selection of food available during Passover is much bigger and more varied. You can find pretty much anything from cereals to potato chips and that is just in the stores. The majority of the restaurants also become kosher for Passover, including McDonalds that offers kosher for Passover hamburger buns. (Note: I have never actually had one, but that is because I refuse to eat in McDonalds).

Here I never have to worry about bringing food with me because I can always go to a café and find plenty to eat. Of course, not everyone keeps this holiday and it is possible to get a sandwich or a plate of pasta, but in many places there will be a few pieces of matzah next to the bread basket to give the customer the option.

Food aside, Passover in Israel is great for many reasons: as the holiday of spring you can see flowers blossoming, things at work calm down for a few days and we only have one seder!

I welcome you all to come and celebrate with me next year- Chag Sameach.