Discover Kasha: A Delicious Alternative to Quinoa

I've rediscovered kasha. Have you ever tasted it? 

I remember my mom making kasha when I was younger, but somewhere along the way, I have forgotten all about it in the last few years. This week however, as I prepared one of my grandmother's family recipes for an upcoming Jewish holiday, the recipe called for kasha and I rediscovered it!

Buckwheat in the Instant Pot (Kasha)

 I love my Instant Pot for making grains such as buckwheat. It uses only one pot, it cooks rather quickly, and the end product is a light fluffy delicious grain that can be enjoyed as a side dish. 

Kasha Varnishkes Like Bubbie Made

Have you ever heard of Kasha Varnishkes? No one made Kasha Varnishkes like my "Bubbie" (grandmother) who emigrated from Russia solo to the USA in the early 1900's. At the age of 16, she brought little with her except her courage and her mother's recipes.

One of my favorites was her hearty and savory recipe for kasha varnishkas which is a mix of pasta, sautéed onions, and buckwheat groats (kasha).