Toumani, haroset, Easter bread, and the holidays

MMFCC, Z, and I are off to hear Toumani Diabate's Symmetric Orchestra this evening. Say hello if you see us (unless Z forces an emergency exit--she loved the album, though, and so I harbor high hopes).

Also on my mind: making the Yemeni-style haroset  that has become an annual specialty of mine. I do tweak this recipe a bit from the published version. One hint: sub pomegranate molasses for the juice for an extra-wonderful flavor; I buy mine locally at Sahadi's or Kalustyan's. Later this week, I'll haul out the mahlepi (or mahlab, if you prefer) seeds to make tsoureki. (This year, real Easter and Western Christian Easter are on the same date.)

Finally: I know I'm late, but happy Nowruz! I wish I could mark the new year (belatedly) by attending Hossein Alizadeh and the Hamavayan Ensemble's concert at Zankel Hall tomorrow evening...