To whip up the original version of my dad's cake, you'll need: Half of a box of Nilla Wafers; 2 cups of heavy whipping cream; 1 cup of milk; ⅓ cup of brandy ...

Editor's note: This story first published in 2019. A few days ago, my dad gave me a call. "When we land in D.C., it's going to be Eid al-Adha," he said. "You know, the one where we eat kharouf ...

Ashlie D. Stevens is Salon's senior food editor. She is also an award-winning radio producer, editor and features writer — with a special emphasis on food, culture and subculture.