“One of Israel's best friends, and I am delighted to count her among my own best friends too, Paushali Lass, has decided to write another book, together with her colleague Ann Samson. It is a cookbook, a personal memoir, a history of the Jewish community of India, and an introduction to Judaism, all rolled into one beautiful tapestry that is as delicious as the recipes it includes. When you sit down with this book, it is like sitting down with a good friend. I am sure you will like it!”
— Gidon Ariel, CEO, Root Source
“Tasting Faith offers a deep and delicious understanding of Indian Jewish history, cuisine and culture, whilst also challenging the reader to ask probing humanitarian questions about immigrants, Jews and minorities.”
— Sarah Sassoon, Author of Shoham’s Bangle and This is Not a Cholent.
Source: Times of Israel
“I thoroughly enjoyed reading Tasting Faith, a captivating book that delves into the stories of various Jewish communities in India, exploring their cultures, faith, and struggles within the diaspora. What makes this book especially compelling is the collaboration between the central figure, Ann Samson - an Indian-born Jewish woman - and researcher Paushali Lass, who shares Ann's journey with deep compassion. I found the chapter on recommendations for a post-October 7th world particularly thought-provoking, as well as the exploration of Israel's centrality. I highly recommend this book for its personal insights and, of course, its wonderful recipes!”
— Alon Penzel, Author of Testimonies Without Boundaries: Israel: October 7th 2023
“Paushali’s multicultural upbringing in Kolkata, shaped by her faith and curiosity about Jewish culture, inspires a memoir cookbook that celebrates Indian flavors and honors Indian-born Jews. Through the stories and recipes of Ann Samson, a Jewish woman from Mumbai, she challenges certain narrow views of Jewish identity and experience, and counters misconceptions of Jews as European colonialists amid rising antisemitism. ”
— Jennifer Abadi, Author of A Fistful of Lentils: Syrian-Jewish Recipes from Grandma Fritzie’s Kitchen, and Too Good to Passover: Sephardic & Judeo-Arabic Seder Menus and Memories from Africa, Asia, and Europe.
“It's so special to see two women of Jewish and Christian backgrounds from India coming together to bring alive the traditions and tastes of the Jews of India in a way that is so special. This is as unique as it is an important work on the substance alone. But the partnership brings it to a whole new level. I wish there were more collaborations like this. ”
— Jonathan Feldstein, President of Genesis 123 Foundation and editor of Israel the Miracle
“Tasting Faith offers thought-provoking insights into the food, traditions, and experiences of Indian Jews. In this work, Paushali, a friend and ally of the Jewish community and Israel, provides refreshing interpretations shaped by her faith, Indian heritage, and spiritual connection to Israel. Tasting Faith is a valuable addition to the growing collection of Indian Jewish history, centuries-old delicious recipes, and literature. ”
— Shulie Madnick is an Israeli food and travel writer, of Indian Jewish origin (Bene Israel). Born and raised in Israel, Shulie lives in the US for a number of years. She brings the rich history of the Indian Jews to life through travel and food photography, sharing recipes that blend Indian flavours with Kosher laws.