Hello my friend,

Tomorrow, 21 November, is World Hello Day!

This annual global event began in response to the Yom Kippur War between Egypt and Israel in 1973. On World Hello Day, everyone is encouraged to greet at least 10 others with a cheery 'hello'. The organisers hope that these simple greetings will encourage the use of communication rather than force to settle conflicts.

World Hello Day has been observed in 180 countries, as a small way to express a sincere wish for world peace. I hope that my weekly 'hello' encourages all of us to use kind words and gentle, peaceful communication.

To read more about World Hello Day, and browse letters of support from luminaries including Chaim Potok, Elie Weisel, Itzhak Perlman and others, click here.

But what, I hear you peacefully ask, about the food?!

Food is, of course, my favourite method of promoting peaceful interactions and building positive connections. Sharing food with others fosters mutual respect, closeness and friendship.

Below are some of my favourite foods for sharing with others - either at mealtimes, or as lovely homemade gifts. Bookmark them now ready for the festive giving season!

Remember to say hello tomorrow! Happy World Hello Day!

Delicious recipes for sharing

All of these recipes make delicious foods which are perfect for sharing or for giving as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Delicious sharing dishes:

• ​Caramelised onion and aubergine dip​
  Serve with crackers or crudités as the perfect nosh for sharing with a crowd!
• ​Baked barley risotto with butternut squash​
  An easy, vegan barley risotto that makes a wonderful warming meal to share on a cold winter’s day.
• ​Iraqi tebit style rice​
  Cosy up with this delicious vegan rice dish that has all the flavours of the classic Iraqi Shabbat stew.
• ​Mushroom bourguignon with garlic mash​
  Rich and hearty, this vegan stew with red wine and herbs is perfect for an informal meal with friends and family.
• ​Broccoli kugel
  Made from nutritious whole-foods, this delicious veg-packed side dish always has diners coming back for seconds.
• ​Vegan chocolate babka​
  Share a swirly slice with a friend, or make individual babka buns as tasty and thoughtful gifts.
• ​Chocolate pecan cookies​
  Sweet, nutty, and irresistible, especially if accompanied by a cup of tea and a chat!

Gorgeous homemade gift ideas:

• ​Festive spiced tea blend​​
  Easy to mix up at home, this seasonal tea blend brews a spicy and fragrant drink. Pack into a mug for a sweet, thoughtful gift.
• ​Gingerbread Chanukah gelt​
  Rich gingerbread cookies are iced to resemble coins in a twist on festive tradition! Pack into cute bags for a tasty gift.
• ​Everything Bagel Seasoning​
  ​A jar of this savoury and nutritious condiment makes a wonderful gift. Simply shake to add a burst of flavour to whatever it touches!
• ​Tahini date truffles​
  Nutritious treats that taste incredible - a dark chocolate shell encloses a sweet, nutty, gooey and delicious filling.

You can browse all of my recipes and ideas at family-friends-food.com​

Shabbat Shalom

Temperatures here have plummeted this week, so stay warm this weekend! Here's wishing you a cosy and warm, peaceful and happy Shabbat. May we all be blessed with a restful weekend, filled with family, friends, and cheerful greetings!

Shabbat Shalom - a Good Shabbos! - to everyone.
With love, Helen x.