Fishbein Shares Chef Techniques

While hundreds of ladies were eager to attend, a very fortunate group of 60 women had the privilege of being part of a special event that was hosted by the Women’s Circle of Chabad of Fox Chapel, in Pennsylvania.

Mrs. Susie Fishbein, best-selling cookbook author of the famous Kosher by Design series, mesmerized the intimate crowd with her knowledge, experience, and sense of humor.

Her current mission is to educate groups with the basic trade secrets of cooking so that when we have basic ingredients in the house, quick delicious meals can be made – even without following a detailed recipe.

That is the message behind her new cookbook, Kosher by Design, Cooking Coach. Once one has mastered the the specific techniques for certain meats, poultry, roasted vegetables, and the like, then anyone, regardless of cooking background can make almost anything.

The elegant evening was hosted on the beautiful estate of Cindy G., a supporter of Chabad of Fox Chapel. Mrs. Shternie Rosenfeld, Shlucha of Fox Chapel, graciously welcomed the ladies as they arrived. Cocktails and sushi were served outdoors and the women had a great opportunity to socialize and relax after a long day.

Everyone was seated in a few rows of semi-circular design and listened intently as Mrs. Rosenfeld launched the new JRA Program – The Jewish Relief Agency.

The JRA is a dynamic, volunteer- driven organization whose mission is to help families in need in the spirit of community and friendship.

Special attention is given to monthly food distributions, allowing those less fortunate in our local communities benefit from the kindness of all involved, easing their daily challenges.

“Food is a connector; it bonds us. And we, as Jewish women, we dole it out. It’s the way we nourish our families. But food feeds the intellect, as well, our spiritual selves, our souls,” said Mrs. Rosenfeld, as she introduced Mrs. Susie Fishbein.

Susie spoke of a variety of different touring experiences and motivated the crowd when she said, “Everything I can do in the kitchen, you can do in the kitchen.”

She also expressed the importance of having a few “go-to” items and high quality cooking utensils to get the most long term benefits possible. Over the years, the better quality items not only last longer, but they also provide a reliable, hardworking ease of use and easier clean up every time its needed.

While discussing overall cooking methods and trade secrets, Suzie demonstrated a few dishes from scratch and explained each step. She prepared Creamy Hummus with Steeped Tomatoes, Thai Beef in Cucumber Cups, and Chicken Lollipops on a bed of Spaghetti Squash.

All attendees received these recipes on laminated cards, as well as a new autographed cookbook: “Kosher by Design: Cooking Coach”. This newest cookbook includes 120 new recipes, ten pictorial coaching sessions to refine culinary skills, and over 400 full color pictures.

The entire group enjoyed delicious, fresh baked desserts, sorbet, and fruits in the next room. Everyone enjoyed socializing, reviewing the skills they had learned, discussed what they were looking forward to making, shared personal experiences with each other, and talked about which tools and techniques could be put to use in the future.