Michael Solomonov aims to simplify Israeli classics for home cooks in 'Zahav Home'

(JTA) - A lot has changed since the last time Michael Solomonov released a cookbook back in 2018. The celebrity chef has opened several new restaurants. He has expanded his empire beyond Philadelphia to New York City. And of course he has watched his native Israel, the flavors of which have defined his career, come under attack.

After Solomonov raised money for emergency services in Israel following Hamas' Oct. 7 invasion, pro-Palestinian protesters in Philadelphia took aim at him. They staged a protest outside Goldie, his kosher falafel joint, accusing it of "genocide," and called for a boyco...