Now Inducting Into the Challah Fame: Hannah S. of @challah_by_hannah
The Challah Fame is a OneTable series that celebrates someone who loves to make challah (or delicious Jewish food!) and does so as a form of self-care, self-expression, as a business, or for any other reason (do we really need a reason to adore a good chunk of that beautiful bread?!).
Know someone who needs to be inducted ASAP? Fill this out with the info you have and we’ll be in touch, or send it over to them to complete!
What leads you to keep making challah week after week?
The entire process of making challah is a holistic experience that activates a range of emotions. I look forward to this time that is dedicated to unwinding and reflecting. I really try to be intentional with the physical aspect of making challah (with an added bonus for strong arms!). Making challah for my customers each week holds me accountable for maintaining a routine, especially in the past year. I can surely say that challah has held my life together.
Where do you do your baking?
Topeka, Kansas
What is the most delicious challah you’ve ever made or had? Spare no details!
My plain challah is embedded with lots of Valrhona dark chocolate bits. It MUST be consumed within 15 minutes after coming out of the oven. Absolutely divine.
We know folks loves eating challah, but what moved you to start baking your own?
Last summer after moving back home and finishing grad school, I was submitting countless job apps. I really needed a hobby that could be COVID-19 safe and fun. I remembered how many people at the beginning of the pandemic attempted to make sourdough, and thought how fun it would be for me to attempt challah. Previously I only made a round challah each year for Rosh Hashanah, including my year living in Italy! Why not give it a try? Hundreds of challot later and I would say it’s been a good decision.
If your challah is for purchase, where can someone place their order?
The store is on a summer break, but purchases usually happen online on my website: https://challah-by-hannah.square.site/s/shop
