Hi Refika, in Greece we prepare "koliva"... After the funeral we gather to drink a fish soup and after that we serve "koliva", which is done with wheat soaked from the day before, you drain it, boil it, strain it and leave it to cool down and dry... When there is no more liquid in the same, we add raisins, roasted almonds chopped, walnuts chopped, roasted sesame seeds, cinnamon, clove, pomegranate, chopped parsley and finely grated bread crumbs. You mix it well and either put in a plate to decorate or serve it directly in glasses. It has a very earthy flavor that reminds us our origin and final destination... We eat it while talking about the person that has gone and remembering his moments. Generally we end up laughing with his or her sayings and adventures but... As we say, there is no wedding without tears and funeral without laughter. Remembering the "bests off" the loved one that has passed makes us cope and go on with life. We serve them again with coffee in the service we make 40 days after the passing. All the best and wishing you all a quick recovery
The fish soup comes with the boiled fish braised and accompanied by mayonnaise, at best home-made and wine is drunk to the memory of the dead person, helping to deal with the loss of the dead person.
I love that Turkey is getting the help it needs but Syria is just being forgotten overall. Please help Syria those who can and we can all pray for them too
Hi Clayton! Look I'm Turkish, I agree with you. However this racist, who has so much hatred for Syrians and Arabs, Pakistanis, Afghanis...refugees, did she ever even once mentioned the name of Syria, as well as earthquake victims in Syria. No. She won't. Actually, off the camera probably with people she has hired making fun of Syrians and happy they're dead. I'm saying this because I know somethings about this.
I agree with you, but the problem is that Assad cannot be trusted not to steal the aid. So if people donate, it's *very important* to give directly to an aid society that will bring and distribute the food and supplies itself, instead of sending money to places that have connections to the Assad government.
Well, you can donate to UNHCR which has always had access to the separatist as well as, earthquake hit areas. They provide basic needs of the affected ones.
Also Syrians refugees who were living in Antiyokya, Gaziantep and surroundings are being forced to leave Turkey by local administration. It's a drama within the drama😭😭 They get hit more and more. They aren't welcomed in Turkey neither have got International refugee status because Turkey didn't adhere to UN refugee status for Asian or African refugees and so, neither they receive proper resettlement programs nor can build a new life from scratch. Unfortunately, Turkey gives International refugee status only to European refugees. The situation is quite tangled for Syrians in Turkey because they are widely seen and perceived by Turks as terrorists.
@@elisabetta4478 you don't know a s##. It's easy to talk all the way from your comfortable seat. Erdogan's government tries everything to protect any type of refugees from opposition party and people, from people like Refika, even taking them to court when they go too far against refugees and having extreme negativity toward refugees. Local government, Erdogan, Erdogan's party and supporters help and tries to keep them, even given some of them citizenship so if Erdogan loses the election they can't be expelled by the opposition party, the one Refika supports. Of course they opposition party supporters go mad of refugees getting the citizenship, trying to stop it. The reason Erdogan is giving refugees citizenship because opposition says once they win the election, they're going to expel all the refugees. You talk like you know the situation, but you don't know anything about the situation. It's so complicated. And the opposition doesn't want the refugees because blaming Erdogan taking them in to Arabinise Turkey, giving birth to 6 -12 kids in that situation but not looking after them , children running in the streets, also opposition party and its supporters believe it would turn the country strict Muslim as in Iran or some Arab countries. Everything you've mentioned is never heard from anyone in Turkey whether from Erdogan's supporters or opposition. Opposition's creating usual racist sentiment toward Arabs exactly as in the USA, Europe. No different. No one calls Syrian refugees terrorists. And no one in Europe or the USA want Syrian, Afghan refugees...The most is Germany took. Turkey have 10million refugees from Syria not including Ukraine (that's what opposition say 10 million because 3 million supposedly not registered, illegal. Erdogan say it's not 10 million, everyone is registered and 7 million Syrian refugees) During the war in Iraq, 3 million Kurdish refugees arrived in 1 day! It's like earthquake. Suddenly to look after 3 million refugees arriving in 1 day is a huge task. Syrian refugees are being called thieves, looters but not terrorists. Of course, there are ISIS and Kurdish terrorists in Syria sneaking in from Syria. A Syrian Kurdish terrorist bombed Beyoglu - Istanbul and killed many people including 2 new born babies. However, she was not refugee, didn't have papers, brough by other terrorists illegally. There're ISIS terrorists sneaking in killing , bombing places in Turkey but they're not refugees. If they're not terrorist then Al-Qaida or whoever bombed the World Trade Centre in NYC is not terrorist then. And I'm posting this for Clayton not for you because you're extremally uneducated. You won't get it.
I am writing this through my tears. You are such a beautiful soul and earth angel for helping those in need at this horrific time in your country. Thank you for explaining the 5 stages of grief. I always look forward to your Saturday videos. Sending you and your team much love 💕 and hugs.💗🦋🌷
You are such a wonderful soul. We have talked about you in my Core Studies class in Australia. We have been praying and talking about fundraising to help Turkiye. I told my class how a RUclipsr I watch is helping the people of Turkiye and surrounds. Keep going. Thankyou 🙏🏻
I’m still in shock and such despair I just can’t believe this happened. I just keep praying for their pain and dealing with sorrow. God bless you so much and pray for every thing you need. So much love to you and Turkey and Syria. ❤️
@@narniadan wow really that’s just awful don’t they realize that they are all in the same boat and compassion shouldn’t be a barrier because of their beliefs? Wow I guess they never heard of Bob Marley One Love? Well my prayers still go out to them all they are human beings and love is universal. Thank you for telling me this and they hated the Jews first ? Lol I wonder now if they see them for what they are so sad.
@@narniadan I don't know her. Though I was born in Cyprus, I've lived in New for most of my life. It's a pity if she's as you describe as it tarnishes her somewhat. I've only seen her cooking channel so know nothing else about her.
This was so much beyond food and cooking, and even so much beyond a mourning ritual. You literally shared your culture and your nation with the rest of the world. Much love and prayers from India.
I guess you are from India, as this is also a part of our culture. Yes, Refika in India too we make semolina halwa on mourning days n offered by younger generation of that person. But really loved the meaning of the word helwa - patience
💜💜💜 what a lovely thought!!! Something we all should be mindfully doing much more often. & I love Refika’s description of the thought/prayers wafting up on the scent of the food to purify their soul & your own thoughts/prayers memories actively participating in that process!!!! 💜
I love thé concept of preparing and sharing, this would’ve been something I would’ve distracted myself with . when my baby brother passed away a few months ago, I found out that it’s our tradition (Palestinians) to serve kunafa on the 3rd day of mourning as a way to say “may we meet again under better circumstances and to thank people for their support and presence ” I pray for Turkey and I hope that you all will rise again after this pain ❤
Thank you Refika for sharing these beautiful traditions and recipe. We have very similar traditions in Afghanistan. Your videos are truly helping us build a better world by finding and celebrating our commonalities rather than the things that divide us. Bless you, sending you love and prayers for the souls of our loved ones 🙏🏼
Thank you Refika for the helwa recipe! But I am extremely happy for explaining the 5 stages of grief, you know no one ever explained it to me as well as you did! All these stages are true as from experience. I still continue to pray for all the victims and for the departed souls . I have donated through our local councils and churches in Malta and I would like to say God Bless all who are constantly helping out 🙏🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️🌷🇲🇹
Bosnians (mostly muslims) also make halva. I dont know if the recipe is the same, but I know it's taken out and shaped with a tablespoon, and quite soft. RIP to everyone who lost their lives in the earthquake, and a great thank you to all those that selflessly helped. Your hard work will pay out!
Thank you dear Patricia, we have a very long road to take for healing completely and rebuilding our beautiful cities again... please keep praying for us ❤️
You have been missed so much, as you reached out to help your country. Such a beautiful tradition you have shared with us. I have always found cooking foods associated with memories to be cathartic and healing, but your Halva goes so beyond this. Watching each person step up to the pot, reflect, pray, and stir with heartfelt emotion was extremely moving and brought me to tears. Thank-you.
In the Sikh tradition, halwa (made with wheat flour/semolina, sugar, ghee, and water) is served at the temple everyday. For any event- weddings, births, deaths- this halwa is given to each person who joins in. Representative of the acceptance of God’s will which is meant to be taken as sweet regardless of the ups and downs of life. The one constant in the rollercoaster of life. Praying for Turkey- for those who have passed and for those that remain. ❤
It’s the ones that are left behind that have to deal with the pain and loss .. The ones that passed away are flying high … My love and prayers are with you xxxx
I was first drawn to your cooking show, because you have a ray of light, and you promote the beauty of living together as one. Thank you my sister, for sharing your not only wisdom, but your love for food, and your generosity in sharing this gift with us all.
I love the idea of Helva and the way the culture encourages one to grieve and say our goodbyes. This sort of cohesive tradition is sadly missing in many parts of the world and people don’t know how to cope and many give up on living. Thank you Refika and the Crew. Brought tears when everyone came to stir the Helva. God bless you and everyone affected by this tragedy.
Dear Refika, you are such a beautiful soul. I love your cooking videos and I have been watching you for years in Australia. It will be hard, but your beautiful country will rise above this utter tragedy
Thank you, Refika for sharing your culture's mourning customs. Yes, tragedy and loss can break our hearts and often does. Family, community, food, and faith can also heal our broken hearts. Together we love, mourn, and heal. 💓 Love and blessings from Israel 💙🇮🇱🙏
Refika, my deepest condolences... however, let me just say yesterday was international women's day. you have used your platforms that you have built with your team over years of hard work and transformed them to bring attention to the plight of the Turkish people. You and your team have made a significant addition to helping those in need. hugs
I lived in Istanbul for 3 years. I greatly appreciate having me and million others. In Gods grace with all what you are doing to support in this humanitaire disease. I will different pitch in to assist. GOD BLESS YOU Rafika and your team for such great work. I am Grateful for turkish people.
Your country has a long road ahead of grief, healing, and rebuilding. I send prayers of strength and love daily. The devastation is so great. Please be patient and kind to yourselves during this time of recovery. Prayers for peace. 🙏❤️🦋💖☮️
For those who, like me, do not have funds to spare, please show your support by liking and commenting, and if you haven’t, also subscribe. It might seem a tiny gesture, but it increases her reach and revenue. Go back and watch or rewatch your favourite videos and comment again if you feel. Every effort helps in some way. Blessings to you all. ❤from🇨🇦
My heart is grieving. For my mom (who passed just before Christmas) and for the MANY MANY families in Turkiye due to the earthquake. Thank you for all you do - including sharing your grief process with us and opportunity to give financial support. I love your country and will always keep the people in my prayers.
So nice to see you my beloved. I think of you and pray for both you and the Turkish people every day. You are all in my prayers and my love every day. I so enjoyed learning your story. I burn a lot of incense. I will now follow your lead As always. I thank you for sharing all you do. I love your spirit and your love so very much You are such a gem. A diamond. A Ruby. I grieve for and with you. You will heal beloved. Please e patient and loving with yourself. You are so precious. I too am angry for the trauma you are all suffering. But I believe you have the strength to heal. Bless you. I send all my love. 🙏🏼♥️Kelly Skrimstad
This is a beautiful tradition of not only sending the prayers up, but also, everyone taking those prayers into their souls as they all eat it. It is a good tradition that you also celebrate a new life born. Finding this channel has made me realize how close the other side of our world really is. Food unites us, I believe. Blessings and healing to all countries.
I love this tradition- it amazes me how so many cultures have similar practices and how they often revolve around food. Thank you for sharing this and for sharing your talents along with so many others to provide food to those in need. I pray for the recovery in Turkey.
I have kept you, your staff and all the people of Turkey and Syria in my prayers and chant. I have also made contributions and will continue. Thank you for taking the time and sharing your feelings, grief and sharing your traditions. The making of halva made me weep, what a lovely, humane tradition. Thank you, thank you and a warm embrace from NJ USA Madelene
Refika, I studied with Elizabeth Kubler Ross. She would be so proud of your application of these stages to what has happened in Turkey. This is very touching. Traditions for mourning are deeply important. Thank you for always sharing.
I will share this video with our Baha'i Feast gathering tonight. Infusing prayer and cooking with connecting with our loved ones in the Abha Kingdom. I will do this with our grandkids and pray for all those in Turkey, Syria, Ukraine, and everywhere there is grief. Thank you for sharing this in your deeply moving way.
What a beautiful mourning tradition, thank you for sharing. I was shocked and saddened when hearing about the tragedy in Türkiye… my thoughts and love to you xx
Nice to see you back. I must say your sadness is shown and it breaks my heart. There will be light at the end of the tunnel. May you and yours be blessed.
Chef, my sincere condolences to you, your family, your beautiful country. This is no doubt very sad and felt worldwide. Sending up prayers to all of you.
We are also in grief with you people.😢 Allah Taalah give fast recovery, health, safety and prosperity to all Turkia & Syrian brothers, sisters and kids. And Allah bless them Saber e Jamil too . Ameen ❤🤲
My deepest condolences to Turkey and Syria. May God give them the acceptance of what happened and the strength to cope with the reality of the loss. My heart is with all of you ❤
Thank you Refika for sharing this dish and sharing the 5 stages of grief, and it's so good to see you and the team back. Hopefully our donations can make a small impact to help Turkey move forward. Many blessings and prayers to you, your staff and country.
O kadar güzel anlattın ki, ne yazacağımı bilemiyorum. Allah böyle acılar yaşatmasın inşallah. ❤ Allahım hepimize sabır ve güç versin. Başımız sağ olsun. Allah rahmet eylesin ve mekanları cennet olsun inşallah bütün kaybettiğimiz canlarımıza. ❤
Donation done! Sending so much love, healing and gratitude to Refika, her wonderful team + many volunteers, and all the Turkish + Syrian people. I'm wondering- are you able to connect with Chef Jose Andres (World Central Kitchen) and his many resources? It seems like a natural fit.
Hi dear Diane, we are not making food anymore for now. It was for the emergency phase we get through for 2 weeks just after the earthquake... Now, we only have a donation campaign on RUclips but we are working on what else could be done... Thank you for being with us, your support is so valuable! ❤️
I am rewatching Black Money Love on Netflix. Third time. There’s a scene coming up where the actress Tuba learns how to make halva after her mother dies. Seeing what the food is and how it’s made and it’s history makes me understand better. Thank you.
What a beautiful tradition. On my Dikranagertsi side (from Diyarbakir), they made a powder called hasa when children are born, and a chunky mixture of chickpeas, nuts, and raisins called agrahadig (tooth pieces) when a baby cuts a first tooth. My deepest condolences… the world is mourning with you all.
Hello Refika, in India, in Hindu culture we too make 'halwa', almost the same way.We cook it in good times, religious occasions and celebrations etc. Thankyou for sharing this video. Peace to the ones for their loses
Refika, I see on the news feed, volunteers cooking for the displaced... many times I wonder, judging for myself, if would not be better to provide the items and let all of them cook, do laundry, take care of the children, dig graves clear rubble...together. It would be cathartic really. A sense of purpose and service to the other. There is a blessed release in being busy. Like stirring the halva pot...❤❤❤
dear Refika, we love you and we are confident that the Turkiye people will overcome this grief, and will be again the wonderful nation they always were... be courageous, God is putting to trial the one He Loves!!!!!!!!!
Thank you so much Refika and crew for another moving video. Sending my love and strength as you all move through this difficult time. My husband bought me one of the knifes you sell awhile back. I use it everyday and say a little prayer for you all when I use it.❤️
While there are terrible events all over the world, this tragedy seems more devastating because it happened so suddenly. The shock of so much loss so quickly is almost unfathomable. Thank you for sharing this lovely tradition with us. Please know that folks all over the world are sending good vibes to you. Stay strong and keep up the good work. Be well and stay safe!
Refika, you are a very high soul and I agree with every word you said. I admire your dedication to world unification and giving service to others. This is the first time I have heard about "helva" (as halva is a sweet made from sesame in Israel.) The cinnamon and cloves are warming spices which lift the mood. Thank you for sharing this tradition as well as opening your heart. Your international family is with you, your team and with our neighbors in Turkiye
❤ Thank you Refika for all what you are doing to help the needy. You are such and angel as well as all your team. Beautiful recipe and I think it must taste delicious. My love to all the people who lost a loved one. You guys will be in my prayers. Lots of love from all of us to all of you. May God bless you all.
Very beautiful and touching. In Southern Italy the neighbours and relatives bring food to the family of the deceased for 7 days and eat and drink together with them. It’s a great way to accompany someone through their grief, as much as it is possible.
hello,your words are so warm,,what a good tradition,,we dont have that here in this cold world,,i lost my mother and sister,,and stainding alone for it,,, thankyou for this!! also my heart is with Turkey,,
you all are a tough lot and will bounce back....after such a devastation .we in India, too make halwa(you pronounce it as helva in turkiye)....we add sugar/jaggery to make it sweet and lots of ghee(clarified butter).we too distribute halwa to celebrate a special occasion....the term "sabr'' ie patience ...we too use this word....it's a small world!.....thank you for the insight to the psychology of coping with loss/bereavement....next time i stir halwa i will add prayers for solace for all those in turkiye who are facing this most difficult time.keep up the great work you all are doing......
You’re such a beautiful person Refika , I send you my love ,my admiration & most of all I send you my prayers and to all your fellow citizens may GOD fill your hearts with peace and serenity 🙏🏼❤️
Refika, you are such an angel. Something like this is so hard to handle. You've done a masterpiece of paying your respects and educating the world, not only about the importance and significance of food but also about humanity and psychology. Every time I hear about Turkish customs or when saw them in practice, they blew me away with their depth of meaning and humanity. Things like people buying an extra loaf of bread and leaving it for those in need at the entrance to the bakery. It's so simple, so humble and yet effective. I admire you and your amazing team for the immediate practical response to the catastrophe, but I admire you even more for stepping up to a video like this and delivering your message with grace at a time when everything is still very emotional for you. I'm sending you all thoughts and prayers - as if that was enough, but it's something.
Hello Refika, your crew, and people of Turkiye and Syria. What a lovely and meaningful tradition halva is. Thank you for sharing it with us. You all have been in our thoughts constantly since this latest tragedy. We are sending money and also so much love and healing vibrations. Thank you Refika and crew for all you do. We love you all. ❤️
I wish you hadn't rushed everyone else's halvas prayers. We are right with you in the mourning while you are doing your recipe ritual. If you can slow that video segment down and allow us as your viewer to hold ceremony with you, I would appreciate it. You are loved. 💜
This video made me incredibly sad and hopeful at the same time. I’m still baffled at the fact that it takes such a tragedy for our world and people to come together. I cried for your tradition, wished I had one like this, and my heart exploded with love at your prayers . I had a daydream that I won millions of dollars and that I would immediately give you lots of money… then though about how I could go about doing so. Yes, money transfer would be great but I think I would get on a plane and deliver it myself as well as my time to help. I would love to hug all of you. I binge watch your channel all the time. I’ve even tried to learn Turkish 😊. I say all your translations with you. God bless all of you and the volunteers , I pray I can join you soon. My condolence to everyone who has lost loved ones. I will continue to pray for always.🥰🥰🥰
Thank you so much for sharing this Turkish dish for this time and place. You are in our hearts and minds. We are so happy to have you back in the kitchen and sharing your food and emotions with us. Thank you for what you do.
Thank you ever so much for sharing this beautiful tradition 💕 it warmed my heart and soul. Thank you also for helping and raising awareness about the victims of the earthquake. Lots of love 💕
Great work Refika and team! I was so surprised to know that we here in western India have exactly the same tradition of eating Helwa (we call it Lapsi) after death or even any good occasion like new home, birth, etc. It always amazes me how similar Turkish and Indian cultures are! I literally felt at home when I was in Turkey. My prayers are with you all 🙏🏼
@Refika i think this person is Gujarati. Lapsi is eaten in Gujarat and Rajasthan and is made with bulgur, not semolina. I am a Rajasthani and we actually make halwa (either with semolina or with whole wheat flour) when an elderly person passes away (to celebrate/remember/pay homage someone passing who's had a long life, as opposed to someone dying young)
Hi Refika, in Greece we prepare "koliva"... After the funeral we gather to drink a fish soup and after that we serve "koliva", which is done with wheat soaked from the day before, you drain it, boil it, strain it and leave it to cool down and dry... When there is no more liquid in the same, we add raisins, roasted almonds chopped, walnuts chopped, roasted sesame seeds, cinnamon, clove, pomegranate, chopped parsley and finely grated bread crumbs. You mix it well and either put in a plate to decorate or serve it directly in glasses. It has a very earthy flavor that reminds us our origin and final destination... We eat it while talking about the person that has gone and remembering his moments. Generally we end up laughing with his or her sayings and adventures but... As we say, there is no wedding without tears and funeral without laughter. Remembering the "bests off" the loved one that has passed makes us cope and go on with life. We serve them again with coffee in the service we make 40 days after the passing. All the best and wishing you all a quick recovery
So touching, thank you!
Beautiful❤️thank you so much for sharing your thoughts,GOD BLESS 🙏🏼🌷
The fish soup comes with the boiled fish braised and accompanied by mayonnaise, at best home-made and wine is drunk to the memory of the dead person, helping to deal with the loss of the dead person.
Thank you for sharing this. We also have the tradition of "coliva" in Romania, usually done (as far as I know) with walnuts, honey and cinnamon.
in Serbia we call it "koljivo", and we also have the service after 40 days of passing
I love that Turkey is getting the help it needs but Syria is just being forgotten overall. Please help Syria those who can and we can all pray for them too
Hi Clayton! Look I'm Turkish, I agree with you. However this racist, who has so much hatred for Syrians and Arabs, Pakistanis, Afghanis...refugees, did she ever even once mentioned the name of Syria, as well as earthquake victims in Syria. No. She won't. Actually, off the camera probably with people she has hired making fun of Syrians and happy they're dead. I'm saying this because I know somethings about this.
I agree with you, but the problem is that Assad cannot be trusted not to steal the aid. So if people donate, it's *very important* to give directly to an aid society that will bring and distribute the food and supplies itself, instead of sending money to places that have connections to the Assad government.
Well, you can donate to UNHCR which has always had access to the separatist as well as, earthquake hit areas. They provide basic needs of the affected ones.
Also Syrians refugees who were living in Antiyokya, Gaziantep and surroundings are being forced to leave Turkey by local administration. It's a drama within the drama😭😭
They get hit more and more. They aren't welcomed in Turkey neither have got International refugee status because Turkey didn't adhere to UN refugee status for Asian or African refugees and so, neither they receive proper resettlement programs nor can build a new life from scratch. Unfortunately, Turkey gives International refugee status only to European refugees.
The situation is quite tangled for Syrians in Turkey because they are widely seen and perceived by Turks as terrorists.
@@elisabetta4478 you don't know a s##. It's easy to talk all the way from your comfortable seat. Erdogan's government tries everything to protect any type of refugees from opposition party and people, from people like Refika, even taking them to court when they go too far against refugees and having extreme negativity toward refugees. Local government, Erdogan, Erdogan's party and supporters help and tries to keep them, even given some of them citizenship so if Erdogan loses the election they can't be expelled by the opposition party, the one Refika supports. Of course they opposition party supporters go mad of refugees getting the citizenship, trying to stop it. The reason Erdogan is giving refugees citizenship because opposition says once they win the election, they're going to expel all the refugees. You talk like you know the situation, but you don't know anything about the situation. It's so complicated. And the opposition doesn't want the refugees because blaming Erdogan taking them in to Arabinise Turkey, giving birth to 6 -12 kids in that situation but not looking after them , children running in the streets, also opposition party and its supporters believe it would turn the country strict Muslim as in Iran or some Arab countries. Everything you've mentioned is never heard from anyone in Turkey whether from Erdogan's supporters or opposition. Opposition's creating usual racist sentiment toward Arabs exactly as in the USA, Europe. No different. No one calls Syrian refugees terrorists. And no one in Europe or the USA want Syrian, Afghan refugees...The most is Germany took. Turkey have 10million refugees from Syria not including Ukraine (that's what opposition say 10 million because 3 million supposedly not registered, illegal. Erdogan say it's not 10 million, everyone is registered and 7 million Syrian refugees) During the war in Iraq, 3 million Kurdish refugees arrived in 1 day! It's like earthquake. Suddenly to look after 3 million refugees arriving in 1 day is a huge task. Syrian refugees are being called thieves, looters but not terrorists. Of course, there are ISIS and Kurdish terrorists in Syria sneaking in from Syria. A Syrian Kurdish terrorist bombed Beyoglu - Istanbul and killed many people including 2 new born babies. However, she was not refugee, didn't have papers, brough by other terrorists illegally. There're ISIS terrorists sneaking in killing , bombing places in Turkey but they're not refugees. If they're not terrorist then Al-Qaida or whoever bombed the World Trade Centre in NYC is not terrorist then. And I'm posting this for Clayton not for you because you're extremally uneducated. You won't get it.
I am writing this through my tears. You are such a beautiful soul and earth angel for helping those in need at this horrific time in your country.
Thank you for explaining the 5 stages of grief.
I always look forward to your Saturday videos. Sending you and your team much love 💕 and hugs.💗🦋🌷
Thank you honey. 💕
We keep praying for turkey and the turkish people…God bless you, your entire team and your families ❤
You are such a wonderful soul. We have talked about you in my Core Studies class in Australia. We have been praying and talking about fundraising to help Turkiye. I told my class how a RUclipsr I watch is helping the people of Turkiye and surrounds. Keep going. Thankyou 🙏🏻
Greetings friends! Lots of love ❤
I’m still in shock and such despair I just can’t believe this happened. I just keep praying for their pain and dealing with sorrow. God bless you so much and pray for every thing you need. So much love to you and Turkey and Syria. ❤️
@@narniadan Stop starting shit. MOST people hate many governments.
@@narniadan wow really that’s just awful don’t they realize that they are all in the same boat and compassion shouldn’t be a barrier because of their beliefs? Wow I guess they never heard of Bob Marley One Love? Well my prayers still go out to them all they are human beings and love is universal. Thank you for telling me this and they hated the Jews first ? Lol I wonder now if they see them for what they are so sad.
@@narniadan do you personally know Refika? She seems to be a good human being.
@@narniadan I don't know her. Though I was born in Cyprus, I've lived in New for most of my life.
It's a pity if she's as you describe as it tarnishes her somewhat. I've only seen her cooking channel so know nothing else about her.
@@narniadan I know she's not a chef because she mentioned it in an episode. I've learned many recipes from her channel, for which I'm grateful.
This was so much beyond food and cooking, and even so much beyond a mourning ritual. You literally shared your culture and your nation with the rest of the world. Much love and prayers from India.
I guess you are from India, as this is also a part of our culture. Yes, Refika in India too we make semolina halwa on mourning days n offered by younger generation of that person. But really loved the meaning of the word helwa - patience
In India too we make semolina halwa
I love the idea of how cooking helve becomes a part of active prayer. You have inspired me to start praying while cooking dinner this Lenten season.
💜💜💜 what a lovely thought!!! Something we all should be mindfully doing much more often. & I love Refika’s description of the thought/prayers wafting up on the scent of the food to purify their soul & your own thoughts/prayers memories actively participating in that process!!!! 💜
youtube.com/@easyrecipewithkitchenpartn481?si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE
A way to relax and distract your thoughts.
Well, as u are one of the most chefs that I liked... I hope turkey people are doing well with God blessings as you all in our prayers.
So glad to hear your words. Our sincerest thoughts of healing from this great tragedy are with you and your fellow country people.
youtube.com/@easyrecipewithkitchenpartn481?si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE
I love thé concept of preparing and sharing, this would’ve been something I would’ve distracted myself with . when my baby brother passed away a few months ago, I found out that it’s our tradition (Palestinians) to serve kunafa on the 3rd day of mourning as a way to say “may we meet again under better circumstances and to thank people for their support and presence ”
I pray for Turkey and I hope that you all will rise again after this pain ❤
We hope the same and sorry for your loss... 🙏🏻
Thank you Refika for sharing these beautiful traditions and recipe. We have very similar traditions in Afghanistan. Your videos are truly helping us build a better world by finding and celebrating our commonalities rather than the things that divide us. Bless you, sending you love and prayers for the souls of our loved ones 🙏🏼
Thank you Fatima ❤️
Thank you Refika for the helwa recipe! But I am extremely happy for explaining the 5 stages of grief, you know no one ever explained it to me as well as you did! All these stages are true as from experience. I still continue to pray for all the victims and for the departed souls . I have donated through our local councils and churches in Malta and I would like to say God Bless all who are constantly helping out 🙏🙏🙏✝️✝️✝️🌷🇲🇹
Bosnians (mostly muslims) also make halva. I dont know if the recipe is the same, but I know it's taken out and shaped with a tablespoon, and quite soft.
RIP to everyone who lost their lives in the earthquake, and a great thank you to all those that selflessly helped. Your hard work will pay out!
Thank you dear! Lots of love ❤
😊😊
Lots of love to Muslim Bosnians and Turkish people from an American Muslim
Thoughts and prayers to the people of Turkey and Syria from Johannesburg South Africa 🇿🇦
Hi from Tennessee USA. My prayers are still with the people of Turkey. Thanks you for sharing your recipe with us and the reason for it.
Thank you dear Patricia, we have a very long road to take for healing completely and rebuilding our beautiful cities again... please keep praying for us ❤️
You have been missed so much, as you reached out to help your country.
Such a beautiful tradition you have shared with us. I have always found cooking foods associated with memories to be cathartic and healing, but your Halva goes so beyond this. Watching each person step up to the pot, reflect, pray, and stir with heartfelt emotion was extremely moving and brought me to tears. Thank-you.
Thank you Sandy... 🙏🏻
I love the compassion and understanding you and your crew show. My prayers and support continue for your beloved country.
Lots of love! ❤️
The world is grieving with you and all of Turkiye. As we say in Judaism may all those lost memories be a blessing 🕯️💔💗💗♥️
🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
My recipe for the same is ghee:semolina:sugar:water in 1:1:1:4 ratio and nuts as per preference. This ratio works for anywhere from 1tbsp to 10kg
In the Sikh tradition, halwa (made with wheat flour/semolina, sugar, ghee, and water) is served at the temple everyday. For any event- weddings, births, deaths- this halwa is given to each person who joins in. Representative of the acceptance of God’s will which is meant to be taken as sweet regardless of the ups and downs of life. The one constant in the rollercoaster of life.
Praying for Turkey- for those who have passed and for those that remain. ❤
Hey dear Tanisha, thank you for being with us! ❤️
It’s the ones that are left behind that have to deal with the pain and loss .. The ones that passed away are flying high … My love and prayers are with you xxxx
I was first drawn to your cooking show, because you have a ray of light, and you promote the beauty of living together as one. Thank you my sister, for sharing your not only wisdom, but your love for food, and your generosity in sharing this gift with us all.
Hey dear Anita, these beautiful words melt my heart.... Lots of love! ❤️
I love the idea of Helva and the way the culture encourages one to grieve and say our goodbyes. This sort of cohesive tradition is sadly missing in many parts of the world and people don’t know how to cope and many give up on living. Thank you Refika and the Crew. Brought tears when everyone came to stir the Helva. God bless you and everyone affected by this tragedy.
youtube.com/@easyrecipewithkitchenpartn481?si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE
Dear Refika, you are such a beautiful soul. I love your cooking videos and I have been watching you for years in Australia. It will be hard, but your beautiful country will rise above this utter tragedy
Hey dear Wayne, thank you for your good wishes. Please keep us in your prayers! ❤️
Dear Refika, this tradition of helva is so beautiful and touching, it made me cry. Thanks for sharing it with us. All of you are in my prayers!
My heart breaks for Turkey. Thank you for sharing your grief with us. I, too, am grieving, and your message resonates with me.
Thank you, Refika for sharing your culture's mourning customs. Yes, tragedy and loss can break our hearts and often does. Family, community, food, and faith can also heal our broken hearts. Together we love, mourn, and heal. 💓
Love and blessings from Israel
💙🇮🇱🙏
Thank you dear, lots of love! ❤️
My heart goes out to the families affected by this disaster.
This episode made me cry when everyone stirred the pot. Praying for all in Turkey! ❤️🙏🏼 🇺🇸❤️🇹🇷
Refika, my deepest condolences... however, let me just say yesterday was international women's day. you have used your platforms that you have built with your team over years of hard work and transformed them to bring attention to the plight of the Turkish people. You and your team have made a significant addition to helping those in need. hugs
Thank you so much! ❤️
Believe it or not, I thought of you. I truly feel for Turkey and the families who have lost loved ones. God bless you all.
Hey dear, thank you for your support... ❤️
I lived in Istanbul for 3 years. I greatly appreciate having me and million others. In Gods grace with all what you are doing to support in this humanitaire disease. I will different pitch in to assist. GOD BLESS YOU Rafika and your team for such great work. I am Grateful for turkish people.
Refika, you are such an ambassador for the Turkish people. Thank you for all you do!!
Your country has a long road ahead of grief, healing, and rebuilding. I send prayers of strength and love daily. The devastation is so great. Please be patient and kind to yourselves during this time of recovery. Prayers for peace. 🙏❤️🦋💖☮️
We believe, we will get through it all as soon as we can... Your support words are so valuable to us. Lots of love ❤️
For those who, like me, do not have funds to spare, please show your support by liking and commenting, and if you haven’t, also subscribe. It might seem a tiny gesture, but it increases her reach and revenue. Go back and watch or rewatch your favourite videos and comment again if you feel. Every effort helps in some way. Blessings to you all.
❤from🇨🇦
Thank you so much! ❤️
My heart is grieving. For my mom (who passed just before Christmas) and for the MANY MANY families in Turkiye due to the earthquake. Thank you for all you do - including sharing your grief process with us and opportunity to give financial support. I love your country and will always keep the people in my prayers.
Hey dear Kathi, I can feel your pain... That's where words fail... We appreciate your support ❤️
All our prayers go to Turkey and Syria....
love and prayers 💕
This was very heart touching. Wishing all people in Turkey to find peace and solace in these hard times. Much love from Dominican Republic 🧿
Selam, much much love dear! ❤
So nice to see you my beloved. I think of you and pray for both you and the Turkish people every day. You are all in my prayers and my love every day. I so enjoyed learning your story. I burn a lot of incense. I will now follow your lead As always. I thank you for sharing all you do. I love your spirit and your love so very much You are such a gem. A diamond. A Ruby. I grieve for and with you. You will heal beloved. Please e patient and loving with yourself. You are so precious. I too am angry for the trauma you are all suffering. But I believe you have the strength to heal. Bless you. I send all my love. 🙏🏼♥️Kelly Skrimstad
This is a beautiful tradition of not only sending the prayers up, but also, everyone taking those prayers into their souls as they all eat it. It is a good tradition that you also celebrate a new life born.
Finding this channel has made me realize how close the other side of our world really is. Food unites us, I believe. Blessings and healing to all countries.
Hey dear Shirley, thank you for being with us. ❤
Thank you for helping your people.God, will bless you. You have a big heart. 😊
I love this tradition- it amazes me how so many cultures have similar practices and how they often revolve around food. Thank you for sharing this and for sharing your talents along with so many others to provide food to those in need. I pray for the recovery in Turkey.
Hey dear Jennifer, yes, it's very surprising and exciting to discover the commons of our cultures. Lots of love! ❤️
I have kept you, your staff and all the people of Turkey and Syria in my prayers and chant. I have also made contributions and will continue. Thank you for taking the time and sharing your feelings, grief and sharing your traditions. The making of halva made me weep, what a lovely, humane tradition. Thank you, thank you and a warm embrace from NJ USA Madelene
Hey dear Madelene, thank you for being with us! ❤
Turkey is in my prayers, love from Pakistan 🇵🇰
We love you, Refika and Team. May you and Turkiye and all nations affected be comforted and wrapped In God's love.
Refika, I studied with Elizabeth Kubler Ross. She would be so proud of your application of these stages to what has happened in Turkey. This is very touching. Traditions for mourning are deeply important. Thank you for always sharing.
I will share this video with our Baha'i Feast gathering tonight. Infusing prayer and cooking with connecting with our loved ones in the Abha Kingdom. I will do this with our grandkids and pray for all those in Turkey, Syria, Ukraine, and everywhere there is grief. Thank you for sharing this in your deeply moving way.
Thank you so much! 🙏🏻
What a beautiful mourning tradition, thank you for sharing.
I was shocked and saddened when hearing about the tragedy in Türkiye… my thoughts and love to you xx
Nice to see you back. I must say your sadness is shown and it breaks my heart. There will be light at the end of the tunnel. May you and yours be blessed.
Chef, my sincere condolences to you, your family, your beautiful country. This is no doubt very sad and felt worldwide. Sending up prayers to all of you.
Hey Natalie, thank you for your good wishes... Please keep praying for us, lots of love ❤️
We are also in grief with you people.😢
Allah Taalah give fast recovery, health, safety and prosperity to all Turkia & Syrian brothers, sisters and kids. And Allah bless them Saber e Jamil too . Ameen ❤🤲
My deepest condolences to Turkey and Syria. May God give them the acceptance of what happened and the strength to cope with the reality of the loss. My heart is with all of you ❤
Thank you Refika for sharing this dish and sharing the 5 stages of grief, and it's so good to see you and the team back. Hopefully our donations can make a small impact to help Turkey move forward. Many blessings and prayers to you, your staff and country.
O kadar güzel anlattın ki, ne yazacağımı bilemiyorum. Allah böyle acılar yaşatmasın inşallah. ❤ Allahım hepimize sabır ve güç versin. Başımız sağ olsun. Allah rahmet eylesin ve mekanları cennet olsun inşallah bütün kaybettiğimiz canlarımıza. ❤
Donation done! Sending so much love, healing and gratitude to Refika, her wonderful team + many volunteers, and all the Turkish + Syrian people. I'm wondering- are you able to connect with Chef Jose Andres (World Central Kitchen) and his many resources? It seems like a natural fit.
Hi dear Diane, we are not making food anymore for now. It was for the emergency phase we get through for 2 weeks just after the earthquake... Now, we only have a donation campaign on RUclips but we are working on what else could be done... Thank you for being with us, your support is so valuable! ❤️
I am rewatching Black Money Love on Netflix. Third time. There’s a scene coming up where the actress Tuba learns how to make halva after her mother dies. Seeing what the food is and how it’s made and it’s history makes me understand better. Thank you.
You're welcome honey! 💜
What a beautiful tradition. On my Dikranagertsi side (from Diyarbakir), they made a powder called hasa when children are born, and a chunky mixture of chickpeas, nuts, and raisins called agrahadig (tooth pieces) when a baby cuts a first tooth.
My deepest condolences… the world is mourning with you all.
We have many and many rituals for different cases where we are sad or happy... It feels good to commemorate things that have meant for us. ❤
You and your team are such kind beautiful people... I grieve for Turkey... you are in my heart and prayers... blessing and love!!
Hello Refika, in India, in Hindu culture we too make 'halwa', almost the same way.We cook it in good times, religious occasions and celebrations etc. Thankyou for sharing this video.
Peace to the ones for their loses
So glad you came back. We are very sorry Hope we continue seeing you and your staff and thank you very very much from Toronto.
Thank you lovely 💜
Refika, I see on the news feed, volunteers cooking for the displaced...
many times I wonder, judging for myself, if would not be better to provide the items and let all of them cook, do laundry, take care of the children, dig graves clear rubble...together.
It would be cathartic really.
A sense of purpose and service to the other.
There is a blessed release in being busy. Like stirring the halva pot...❤❤❤
Thank you for taking a break, it was very respectful.
Hi refika condolence for all who have lost loved ones. You have done your bit, your soul shines through your words,you are pure soul
dear Refika, we love you and we are confident that the Turkiye people will overcome this grief, and will be again the wonderful nation they always were... be courageous, God is putting to trial the one He Loves!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for your good wishes dear Nicoleta Maria ❤️ please keep praying for us...
Thank you so much Refika and crew for another moving video. Sending my love and strength as you all move through this difficult time. My husband bought me one of the knifes you sell awhile back. I use it everyday and say a little prayer for you all when I use it.❤️
A very beautiful tradition. Thank you for sharing this with us
My heart aches for the loss Turkey has endured. Prayers for you all.
Refika and the team and the people of Turkey… Please except our sincere condolences ❤
Thank you for sharing your traditions with all of us. We were able to stir the helva with you from across the miles.
While there are terrible events all over the world, this tragedy seems more devastating because it happened so suddenly. The shock of so much loss so quickly is almost unfathomable. Thank you for sharing this lovely tradition with us. Please know that folks all over the world are sending good vibes to you. Stay strong and keep up the good work. Be well and stay safe!
Thank you a lot! ❤️
Praying for you Refika...for you and the team and for the people of your beautiful country 🤗🤗🤗
Refika, you are a very high soul and I agree with every word you said. I admire your dedication to world unification and giving service to others. This is the first time I have heard about "helva" (as halva is a sweet made from sesame in Israel.) The cinnamon and cloves are warming spices which lift the mood. Thank you for sharing this tradition as well as opening your heart. Your international family is with you, your team and with our neighbors in Turkiye
hi susan we call it tahini helva .
Hi Susan! Thank you so much for your lovely words. We're appreciate to have you! ❤️
@@Refika what is your correct studio mailing address? Want to send something. ❤️
❤ Thank you Refika for all what you are doing to help the needy. You are such and angel as well as all your team. Beautiful recipe and I think it must taste delicious. My love to all the people who lost a loved one. You guys will be in my prayers. Lots of love from all of us to all of you. May God bless you all.
Lots of love ❤
God Bless all the families that have lost loved ones!
Very beautiful and touching. In Southern Italy the neighbours and relatives bring food to the family of the deceased for 7 days and eat and drink together with them. It’s a great way to accompany someone through their grief, as much as it is possible.
Praying for your Country.
Most of America brings a casserole for support.
hello,your words are so warm,,what a good tradition,,we dont have that here in this cold world,,i lost my mother and sister,,and stainding alone for it,,, thankyou for this!! also my heart is with Turkey,,
Hi, it's Elif from Refika's Kitchen. I am so sorry for your loss. Our heart is with you, and you are not alone dear... All my love... ❤
A loving tribute to those who have gone before. Love to all. Donation completed.
Thank you for your support dear ❤️
I have Tears in My eyes. So beautiful words. All of you did a great job. Thank you!
God bless the souls of the dead. God bless Turkiye one of my favorite places on earth. Thank you so much Refika. 🌺🌹
Thank you for sharing. My heart goes out to you. I wish I had the skills that are needed to help.
I'm sending you and all so much love and healing energy.
you all are a tough lot and will bounce back....after such a devastation .we in India, too make halwa(you pronounce it as helva in turkiye)....we add sugar/jaggery to make it sweet and lots of ghee(clarified butter).we too distribute halwa to celebrate a special occasion....the term "sabr'' ie patience ...we too use this word....it's a small world!.....thank you for the insight to the psychology of coping with loss/bereavement....next time i stir halwa i will add prayers for solace for all those in turkiye who are facing this most difficult time.keep up the great work you all are doing......
We are glad you enjoyed it dear! 🙏🏼♥
@@Refika i always enjoy your uploads.thank you so much and also to your team
You’re such a beautiful person Refika , I send you my love ,my admiration & most of all I send you my prayers and to all your fellow citizens may GOD fill your hearts with peace and serenity 🙏🏼❤️
Refika, you are such an angel. Something like this is so hard to handle. You've done a masterpiece of paying your respects and educating the world, not only about the importance and significance of food but also about humanity and psychology. Every time I hear about Turkish customs or when saw them in practice, they blew me away with their depth of meaning and humanity. Things like people buying an extra loaf of bread and leaving it for those in need at the entrance to the bakery. It's so simple, so humble and yet effective. I admire you and your amazing team for the immediate practical response to the catastrophe, but I admire you even more for stepping up to a video like this and delivering your message with grace at a time when everything is still very emotional for you. I'm sending you all thoughts and prayers - as if that was enough, but it's something.
Thank you for your good thoughts. ❤️
Hello Refika, your crew, and people of Turkiye and Syria.
What a lovely and meaningful tradition halva is. Thank you for sharing it with us. You all have been in our thoughts constantly since this latest tragedy. We are sending money and also so much love and healing vibrations. Thank you Refika and crew for all you do. We love you all. ❤️
Thank you for being with us dear, lots of love! 🥰
Hi Rafeka I am from Pakistan.wanted to tell you.we have cried with Turkish nation.we love you.prayed for you.
What an incredible and powerful tradition you have there. My heart goes out to all of you in Turkey and your country in my prayers.
What a wonderful tradition. Thank you for sharing.
My prayers and my heart felt pain. It is totally unbelievable! 🙏🙏🙏🙏❤
I wish you hadn't rushed everyone else's halvas prayers. We are right with you in the mourning while you are doing your recipe ritual. If you can slow that video segment down and allow us as your viewer to hold ceremony with you, I would appreciate it. You are loved. 💜
This video made me incredibly sad and hopeful at the same time. I’m still baffled at the fact that it takes such a tragedy for our world and people to come together. I cried for your tradition, wished I had one like this, and my heart exploded with love at your prayers . I had a daydream that I won millions of dollars and that I would immediately give you lots of money… then though about how I could go about doing so. Yes, money transfer would be great but I think I would get on a plane and deliver it myself as well as my time to help. I would love to hug all of you. I binge watch your channel all the time. I’ve even tried to learn Turkish 😊. I say all your translations with you. God bless all of you and the volunteers , I pray I can join you soon. My condolence to everyone who has lost loved ones. I will continue to pray for always.🥰🥰🥰
I just saw this channel. thanks for sharing this beautiful tradition of yours. We will keep praying for the Turkish people. And thanks for the recipe.
All our love and best wishes to you all.
Thank you so much for sharing this Turkish dish for this time and place. You are in our hearts and minds. We are so happy to have you back in the kitchen and sharing your food and emotions with us. Thank you for what you do.
Hey Christopher, thank you for your support. ❤️
Thank you ever so much for sharing this beautiful tradition 💕 it warmed my heart and soul. Thank you also for helping and raising awareness about the victims of the earthquake. Lots of love 💕
Thank you for sharing , my heart goes out to the Turkish people 💜
You have been such an amazing ambassador for the food & culture of your homeland. We won't forget your countrymen on their long road back.🙏🙏💕
Thank you for being with us... ❤
Great work Refika and team!
I was so surprised to know that we here in western India have exactly the same tradition of eating Helwa (we call it Lapsi) after death or even any good occasion like new home, birth, etc. It always amazes me how similar Turkish and Indian cultures are! I literally felt at home when I was in Turkey.
My prayers are with you all 🙏🏼
Hey dear DOST yes, it's very surprising and exciting to discover the commons of our cultures. Lots of love! ❤️
@Refika i think this person is Gujarati. Lapsi is eaten in Gujarat and Rajasthan and is made with bulgur, not semolina.
I am a Rajasthani and we actually make halwa (either with semolina or with whole wheat flour) when an elderly person passes away (to celebrate/remember/pay homage someone passing who's had a long life, as opposed to someone dying young)