Famous Foods from Israel: There is much more than Hummus and Falafel!

Israel, a Middle Eastern country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, boasts a unique culinary landscape that reflects the influences of various cultures, including Jewish, Arab, Mediterranean, and European.

Israeli food is a testament to the nation’s history and identity. From local vendors to street food stalls and cozy hole-in-the-wall eateries, here are ten famous Israeli dishes that are a must-try:

Hummus: Hummus is a creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s a staple in Israeli cuisine and is typically served with pita bread or falafel. This simple yet delicious dish is not only tasty but also healthy.

Falafel: Falafel is a popular street food in Israel. These deep-fried balls or patties are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans seasoned with herbs and spices. They’re often served in pita bread with tahini sauce and fresh salad.

Shawarma: Shawarma features thinly sliced marinated meat, such as lamb, chicken, or beef, along with vegetables and pickles, roasted on a vertical rotisserie. It’s commonly served in pita bread or laffa with various condiments, offering a variety of flavourful combinations.

Sabich: Sabich is a beloved Israeli sandwich made with fried eggplant slices, hard-boiled eggs, tahini, and an assortment of salads, all stuffed inside a pita bread. It’s a delightful combination that can be a bit messy but is packed with flavour.

Shakshuka: This breakfast or meal consists of poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce, seasoned with cumin, paprika, and chili pepper. Typically served with bread, Shakshuka is a nourishing and filling dish that isn’t overly spicy.

Labneh: Labneh is a thick, tangy, creamy yogurt cheese often served with olive oil, herbs, and flatbread. Some people sprinkle it with Za’atar or use it as a dip or cream cheese alternative.

Baba Ghanoush: Creamy, smoky, and savoury, baba ghanoush is a roasted eggplant dip made with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It’s a perfect appetizer to kickstart your meal.

Malabi: Malabi is a popular Israeli dessert made from rosewater-scented milk pudding or custard, garnished with pistachios and rosewater syrup. It’s not overly sweet and is served chilled with a fruity syrup made from strawberries or raspberries.

Knafeh: Knafeh is a delightful dessert made from shredded phyllo dough layered with sweetened cheese or semolina. It’s baked, soaked in fragrant sugar syrup, and stuffed with ashta (thickened cream or cheese), then garnished with nuts like pistachios.

Israeli Salad: This fresh and simple salad consists of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs. It’s a healthy and satisfying side dish with origins dating back to Jewish immigrants in the late 19th century.

These ten Israeli dishes reflect the diverse flavours and culinary traditions of the region, making Israeli cuisine a delectable and culturally rich experience.