Renowned cookbook author Adeena Sussman brings ‘Zariz’ to The J

The J will host an evening with renowned cookbook author Adeena Sussman for a special evening celebrating her new cookbook, “Zariz,” at 7 p.m. on Nov. 12. The event is organized by Jewish Experiences, a collaboration of Jewish Federation and The J. The event will bring the flavors and stories of “Zariz” to life through a live cooking demonstration and book talk.

The live cooking demonstration and speaking engagement will begin at 7 p.m. In the Social Hall at the Jewish Community Campus. Generation admission costs $50 per person for those who would like to purchase a signed book, or $30 per person without a signed book.

Those interested in an exclusive meet-and-greet with Sussman can purchase tickets for $75. The experience includes heavy appetizers and a book signing with Sussman, and begins at 6 p.m., prior to the main demonstration.

“We are excited to bring Adeena Sussman to Kansas City to explore the flavors and culture of Israel, said Molly Hess, director of Jewish Experiences. This will be a fun and engaging night, one to remember for our community.”

Sussman is the author of the New York Times bestselling cookbook “Shabbat: Recipes and Rituals From My Table to Yours,” released in 2023. Her previous cookbook, “Sababa,” was named one of the best cookbooks of fall 2019 by The New York Times, Bon Appétit and Food & Wine.

A lifelong visitor to Israel, Sussman has written about the country’s food culture for nearly 20 years. She lives, cooks and writes in Tel Aviv near Carmel Market with her husband, Jay Shofet.

At 7 p.m., Sussman will lead a live cooking demonstration and presentation in the Social Hall. Through conversation and cooking, Sussman will share more about “Zariz,” its recipes and the stories behind the cookbook.

A dessert reception will follow at 8 p.m. in the lobby.

Ticket options include:

• Exclusive meet-and-greet: $75 per ticket
  Includes heavy appetizers, book signing and admission to the presentation and dessert reception.
• General admission with signed book: $50 per ticket
  Includes admission to the presentation and dessert reception, along with a signed copy of “Zariz."
• General admission without book: $30 per ticket
  Includes admission to the presentation and dessert reception.

For more information or to register, please visit thejkc.org/AdeenaSussman or contact Molly Hess, director of Jewish Experiences, at 913- 327-8035 or via email.