Story by Jenna Meltzer
Illustration by Lauren Nail
Passover observes the independence of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt over the course of eight days. The ceremony allows Jewish people to relive the emancipation that their ancestors achieved. To keep kosher during Passover, Jews refrain from eating all breads, pastas and cereals, but many students dismiss the idea of keeping kosher for the holiday because they find it challenging to do so while in college. Here, ORANGE presents some tips for keeping kosher in your dorm room.
Breakfast
Instead of having a quick and easy bowl of cereal for breakfast, substitute these grains for scrambled eggs. Or, if you are in a hurry, opt for sliced fruit with yogurt. Both choices will still leave you filled during your morning classes.
Lunch
Even though a perfectly grilled deli sandwich may sound appetizing between your busy schedule, choose a healthy salad with chicken or tuna for extra protein instead. You can choose unlimited vegetables for your salad, but don’t reach for the tortilla strips or croutons.
Dinner
Skip the pasta. You’ll feel healthier and more full after devouring a grilled chicken breast and a green vegetable of your choice. If the lack of carbs is leaving you sluggish, roasted sweet potatoes are the perfect addition.
And what about pizza night Fridays? Try this kosher alternative instead. Cheesy Matzo Pizza has all the same flavors as regular pizza, and it’s crispier, lighter and healthier. This dish will satisfy anyone’s pizza craving during Passover, and all of the ingredients can be found at your local grocery store.
Cheesy Matzo Pizza
Ingredients
1½ cups of canned tomatoes
2 whole matzo pieces, split in half to form 4 pieces
3 ounces of grated cheese of mozzarella choice
½ ounces grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 500°F. If you have a strainer, pour in the canned tomatoes, and mash up the chunks with your fingers. Put the strainer in the sink to drain any liquid.
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Place the 4 pieces of matzo on a foil-baking sheet. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly on all of the pieces and place it in the oven for about 3 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted.
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Once the cheese is begins to ooze, take the baking sheet out of the oven and evenly spread the tomatoes. If you have leftover mozzarella, sprinkle some on top of the tomatoes. Add a dash of kosher salt and place it back in the oven for 10 minutes.
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Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Observing Passover does not have to be limited just because you are in college. With a few changes to your diet, you can celebrate this Jewish holiday all on your own.
Happy Passover!
