The Secret Recipe by Ilan Stavans with illustrations by Taia Morley; Minneapolis, Minnesota: Kar-Ben Publishing; (c) 2025; ISBN 9781728-486437; 24 pages; $18.99; Publication date March 4, 2025.
SAN DIEGO — This book integrates three lessons intended for children ages 4 through 8.
First, some words in Ladino.
Second, why the Sephardim who spoke that language left Spain and settled in other countries, including Mexico.
Third, how to make bourekas.
Grandma (abuela) calls it a secret recipe because it contains some Ladino words such as guevos, kezo and maza, respectively eggs, cheese and dough.
The story is followed by a glossary and a recipe for bourekas with white cheese.
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Donald H. Harrison is publisher and editor of San Diego Jewish World.