Photo: Erica George Dines
A simple display of white roses lines the center of the table, punctuated at one end by a hand-painted dreidel. “I like a simple palette, not a lot of clutter, letting special objects become the focal point,” Hirsch says. “Lila was thrilled to see her family china updated in this new setting. The blue Baccarat crystal had rarely been used, and it enlivens the table with its sentimental connection and vibrant color.”
Exchanging gifts during the season is largely an American tradition, and Hertz takes care to make sure each guest goes home with a special treat -- a small box of gourmet chocolates. But what really gives the meal meaning are the people around the table, including the Hertzes’ children, Michael, 25, and Amy, 28.
Over the years, the guest list has expanded to include more family members and non-Jewish friends. “We even taught them how to play dreidel,” Hertz says. This year they are honored with their first grandchild, Amy’s 4-month-old son, Zachary -- who will someday, perhaps, proudly display his grandmother’s crystal in a celebration of his own.
POTATO LATKES
Yield: 48 latkes
4 baking potatoes (about 3 pounds), peeled
1 medium onion, grated (about 2/3 cup)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
1 1/3 teaspoons salt
1/2 cup canola oil
1. Grate potatoes through large holes on a box grater. Place in a large bowl; cover with cold water. Drain and squeeze out
excess water.
2. Place potatoes and onion in a large bowl. Stir in eggs, flour, and salt.
3. Heat canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; drop potato mixture by heaping tablespoonfuls into oil,
and cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain latkes on paper towels, and sprinkle with salt to taste,
if desired. To keep latkes warm between batches, place on a wire rack on a baking sheet in a 250° oven for up to 30 minutes. Serve with applesauce.
Note: For larger latkes, drop by 1/4 cupfuls and cook 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Yield: 24 latkes.
RESOURCES: Crate & Barrel, 800/967-6696, www.crateandbarrel.com.
