HAROSET

LESSON OBJECTIVES AND OUTLINE FOR TEACHERS

I. LESSON OBJECTIVES

A. The students will demonstrate their knowledge of proper cooking techniques by preparing the Haroset; thereby demonstrating that they know how to:

1. Peel, core and chop apples.
2. Use a food processor.
3. Combine and mix ingredients
4. Use their judgment to determine proper proportions to reach the right consistency.

B. The students will demonstrate their knowledge of how these recipes fit into the celebrations of Pesach by completing the final Sample Test.

II. KITCHEN ORGANIZATION: TIPS AND TECHNIQUES

A. TIMING

1. This recipe can be completely prepared during one session.

2. If possible, give the haroset a few days in the refrigerator for the ingredients to meld and the flavor to develop, but it can be eaten right away as well.

B. TECHNIQUES

1. A vegetable peeler is the least likely tool to create cuts and slips while peeling apples. Even small children can usually do this without much hazard as long as they keep using the blade away from their fingers.

2. Every student should have an apple to peel and core to participate in this preparation.

III. FOOD FOR THOUGHT

A. If haroset represents the mortar used between the bricks used to build Pharoah’s temples, why do we use a typically sweet relish to represent our hard labor during slavery?

B. There are many different variations of haroset recipes based on countries of origin and family traditions. What are some of the other recipes and ingredients used to prepare haroset in other parts of the world?

C. There are many different varieties of apples. Sampling slices of different varieties might give the students a better understanding of how the different qualities and tastes might contribute to the finished haroset.

D. Honey also comes in many flavors and colors, depending on the flowers the bees use to make it. A sampling of a variety of honeys is a worthwhile endeavor and learning experience.

MATERIALS FOR HAROSET

• assortment of apples
• pecans
• wine or grape juice
• honey
• cinnamon
• granulated sugar
• food processor
• knives or apple slicers and corers
• cutting board
• silicone spatulas
• vegetable peelers
• small bowls and spoons for sampling
• large mixing bowl
• mixing spoons
• dishwashing liquid
• dish towels
• dish cloths

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FOR THE STUDENTS:

Haroset

Haroset is one of the elements presented on the seder plate and represents the mortar which the ancient Hebrews were forced to use to build cities for the Egyptians during the 400 years in which they were enslaved in Egypt before the liberation described in the Biblical Exodus. Haroset is an integral part of the seder and many variations of the recipe exist that come down through the generations based on family tradition.

The other items on the seder plate are the egg, shank bone or pesach (roasted small bone from the calf of a lamb representing the sacrifice), horseradish (maror), karpas (spring vegetable), and salt water.

Haroset

• 10-12 apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, golden delicious, and pink lady are among our favorites)
• 1 lb. coarsely chopped pecans
• Extra-heavy Malaga wine or grape juice
• honey
• cinnamon
• sugar

1. Peel, core and dice the apples. 

2. Add chopped nuts. 

3. Add next 4 ingredients to taste. If you have never done this before, go slowly. The important thing to remember is that the finished product should be somewhat sticky as it represents mortar for Pharaoh’s bricks. It is essential to keep tasting until it is just right and holds together loosely when pressed between the fingers.