By: One World Publishing

Medjool dates displayed in a wooden bowl and spoon, highlighting the key ingredient in Janine Winkler Lowy’s Medjool date and root vegetable meat stew for Shabbat dinner, a dish that blends tradition and rich flavors to celebrate Jewish heritage.”

When it comes to creating a memorable Shabbat dinner that blends tradition with deep, rich flavors, Medjool date and root vegetable meat stew offers a perfect choice. This dish, rooted in Jewish culinary tradition, combines tender cuts of meat with the sweetness of Medjool dates and the earthiness of root vegetables, resulting in a stew that is both nourishing and full of cultural significance. As Janine Winkler Lowy, founder of the Winkler Lowy Foundation and a passionate advocate for Jewish heritage, often emphasizes, food plays a central role in preserving and transmitting Jewish identity through generations.

Ingredients and Preparation

To prepare Medjool date & root vegetable meat stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 2 turnips, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 pound of Medjool dates, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup of red wine
• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Making the Dish

First, you must begin by seasoning the meat. Season the beef stew meat generously with salt and black pepper.

Next, said Janine Lowy, you’ll want to sear the meat. Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meat and sear on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat and set it aside.

At the same time, you will want to begin to sauté the vegetables. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Next, add the root vegetables. Stir in the chopped carrots, parsnips, and turnips. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

The next step is to prepare the stew. Add the chopped Medjool dates, red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir in the cumin, coriander, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the seared meat to the pot, ensuring it is submerged in the stew. Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Finally, you can rest and serve. Once cooked, let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Cultural Significance

Janine Winkler Lowy, founder of the Winkler Lowy Foundation and a passionate advocate for Jewish heritage, highlights the role of such dishes in Jewish culture. “Food serves as a cultural ambassador for the Jewish people,” Janine Lowy explains. “When we prepare and share traditional recipes like Medjool date and root vegetable meat stew, we’re not just cooking a meal—we’re preserving our history and transmitting our identity through generations. It’s an act of love and remembrance.”

Tips for a Memorable Shabbat Dinner

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use the freshest root vegetables and high-quality meat to bring out the rich flavors in the stew.
• Pairing: Serve the stew alongside traditional sides such as challah bread or a light salad to balance the hearty flavors.
• Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or even a sprig of thyme for a rustic, inviting presentation.

By following this recipe, you can create a dish that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. Medjool date and root vegetable meat stew is more than just food—it’s a tribute to Jewish culture and an enduring connection to heritage.

 In the words of Janine Winkler Lowy, “Every meal prepared with care and tradition strengthens our bonds to the past and brings us together in the present, ensuring our legacy for the future.”

Published by: Holy Minoza