To mark the period of transition involved in a birth, Jodi created a seder-inspired, food-based ritual to honor new moms. Each ingredient is both delicious and symbolic to this special time.
Food Ritual and Birth: Honoring New Mothers
About the Author
Jodi Balis is a cooking teacher, food writer, community dietitian and mother of two girls. As owner of Red Lentil Consulting, she helps families simplify food routines, streamline the kitchen and find a meal repertoire and cooking rhythm that fits into busy schedules. Jodi also works at the Capital Area Food Bank, helping to bring healthy food to underserved communities in the DC metro area.
Mama Chia Parfait with Herbed Compote and Almond Crumbles
Here is one food ritual I love offering new moms. Each ingredient in this seder-inspired food ritual and sweet treat honors mom, family and community and is to be savored. (It’s delicious for non-mothers, too!) A Post-Birth Food Ritual for Mothers May you find balance and healing. May you be grounded. May you find moments…
A “Toast” to Tu b’Shevat
Not only is toast trendy (ahem, avocado toast, anyone?), but its humility—carrying its toppings on its back—is also perfect for letting the symbolism of Tu b’Shevat shine through.
Soup in the Sukkah
On a chilly fall night sitting in the sukkah, nothing is better than a warm bowl of soup. Think about it: like the sukkah, soup is built from the basics and nourishing.
Lemony Chickpea and Greens Stew
Kale, chickpeas and lemon are the winning combination here—satisfying, earthy and lemony at the same time. A hunk of bread to go with is strongly encouraged.
Jodi’s Red Lentils
The combination of coconut milk, chicken broth, red lentils and cumin seeds make this a bowl of creamy earthy yumminess. Tastes vary from kid to kid, of course, but this soup has both my two- and five-year-old daughters licking the bowl.
