A Shavuot of Longing: Honoring Eli Sharabi with a Spicy Fish Ball Recipe

Hostage in Gaza since 7 Oct, 2023

As Shavuot approaches, I’ve been thinking a lot about the deeper meanings of this holiday—family, community, and the profound connections that bind us together. This year, my heart is heavy thinking of all the hostages and the families who yearn for their return.

I wanted to share with you a special project: the “Shavuot of Longing” Cookbook. This cookbook is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a tribute to the hostages and their families, a way to raise awareness, and a means to support the Hostage and Missing Families Forum.

One of the recipes that stands out to me is Spicy Fish Balls served with Challah and couscous, a favorite dish of Eli Sharabi. Eli is a well-loved figure in the Kibbutz Be'eri community—a devoted family man and a loving father who always embraced life with wisdom and positivity. He enjoyed taking on various projects and challenging himself, guided by his principle to always move forward.

Eli, 51, has been missing since October 7, when Hamas terrorists attacked the kibbutz, killing, burning, and abducting many residents. Tragically, his wife and daughters were killed, and his brother Yossi, who was also abducted, was declared dead on January 16, 2024. Eli remains missing, and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family every day.

I’ve felt heartbroken hearing these stories, but I’ve also been moved by this cookbook project. By supporting the “Shavuot of Longing” Cookbook, we can make a difference. All donations from the cookbook go directly to helping the hostages and their families. Click here Proceeds from each purchase go towards this cause. Let's spread hope and solidarity this Shavuot.

Here is the recipe for Eli’s favorite Spicy Fish Balls, which you can make this Shavuot in his honor: Spicy Fish Balls Recipes

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Recipe Name: Spicy Fish Balls

yield: 6 servings

Preparation time: 35 minutes

Total time:60 minutes

Fish Ingredients:

• 4 large filets, Sea Bass

• 2 slices of challah, crust removed, soaked in water

• ½ bunch coriander

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika

• 1 teaspoon hot red paprika

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• 1 tablespoon harissa

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon white pepper

• 1 egg

Sauce ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 green chili pepper, diced

• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika

• ½ teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon white pepper

• 1 tablespoon harissa

• 2 plum tomatoes, peeled and chopped

• ½ teaspoon sugar

• 1 cup water

• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

In a food processor, mince the fish using short pulses.

1. Drain the challah slices and with short pulses add them to the fish until fully incorporated.

2. Transfer the mixture into a mixing bowl, add the coriander, garlic, egg, and the rest of the spices, thoroughly mixing.

3. Cover and transfer to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Sauce

1. In a large and deep pot, add the olive oil, garlic, and chili pepper. Add the harissa, paprika and pepper and fry for 1 minute.

2. Add the tomatoes and cook for an additional 1 minute. Add the water and sugar and bring to a boil.

3. Lower the flame to a simmer, adding the salt. Cover and let cook for 15 minutes.

4. Take the fish mixture out of the refrigerator, and with slightly oiled hands form ping pong sized fish balls, gently placing them in the sauce.

5. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes.

6. Turn the fish balls over and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

7. Prior to serving add fresh coriander.

8. Serve warm with fresh challah and couscous.

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As we come together to celebrate Shavuot, let us remember the power of community, the strength of family, and the importance of hope. By sharing Eli Sharabi's favorite recipe and supporting the “Shavuot of Longing” Cookbook, we honor not only his memory but also the resilience of all families waiting for their loved ones to return. Your contribution and awareness can make a tangible difference. Let’s stand in solidarity, spread hope, and bring our beloved hostages back home. Thank you for reading and sharing Eli’s recipe.

Am Yisrael Chai,

Kenden