Sonya Sanford

Sonya Sanford is a Portland OR based chef, writer, cooking instructor, and food stylist. Born and raised in Seattle to Soviet Jewish immigrants, Sonya specializes in diasporic modern Jewish food, seasonal + sustainable cooking, as well as Russian Jewish cuisine. Her culinary background includes working as a personal chef in Los Angeles, food styling for television and the web, and founding and executive cheffing Beetroot Market & Deli. You can find more about her and her recipes at www.sonyasanford.com or on Instagram @sonyamichellesanford.


Articles by Sonya Sanford

This Vegetarian Shawarma Recipe Is Perfect for Feeding a Crowd

This vegetarian main is versatile and customizable, and can be prepared in advance

Cheesy Greek Triangles Are the Perfect Savory Bite for Purim

This recipe originates from the Romaniote Jewish community, and is perfect for Shabbat and holidays.

This Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken Is a Shabbat Staple for Seattle Jews

Food in the diaspora is always influenced by our neighbors, and teriyaki is beloved in many Seattle Jewish homes.

The Old-School Jewish Drink Will Cure What Ails You

This recipe comes straight from the shtetl, and is part healing drink, part dessert.

These Sweet Russian Pancakes Are Old School Perfection

Serve these sweet pancakes with a generous dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle of golden honey.

This Is Your Sign to Make Cheesy-Stuffed Latkes for Hanukkah

This recipe is doubly indulgent and doubly delicious.

Everything Bagel Latkes Recipe

There's no excuse not to eat latkes for breakfast when topped with smoked salmon and just the right seasoning.

My Family’s Soviet-Era Rosh Hashanah Dinner Is All About Delicious Food and Freedom

The High Holidays were about more than tradition or food for this family — they were about freedom.

Apple and Honey Ruffle Milk Pie Recipe

This elegant dessert is the perfect Greek-Jewish fusion for Rosh Hashanah.

Roasted Duck With Plums Is the Rosh Hashanah Entrée You Need

Inspired by Eastern European tradition, this dish makes a wonderful High Holiday entrée.