Israeli food is known for its blend of savory, spicy and tasty delicacies. If you haven’t heard of the Middle Eastern food magic, what have you been eating? Some famous Israeli dishes use olive oil, fava beans, lentils, and potatoes, to mention a few. In this article, you’ll learn about some must-have Israeli dishes such as tabbouleh, shakshuka, and freekeh. These dishes are easy to make and incorporate into your diet. Let’s get started!
1. Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a delicious Maghrebi dish of poached eggs in a thick tomato sauce with harissa, onions, pepper, garlic, olive oil, and spices like cayenne pepper, cumin, and paprika.
This meal is a blend of amazingly sweet, spicy, and earthy flavors that will blow your mind. It is often enjoyed with a bowl of green salad on the side or a roll of delicious butter bread.
2. Tabbouleh
If you are a vegetarian or want to eat healthier, this Israeli dish is a must have! Tabbouleh is a delicacy containing ingredients like bulgur wheat, lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley, onion, and tomatoes.
This meal is low in fat, high in fiber and vitamins, and contains no cholesterol. It is also easy to make and requires no culinary expertise. Just toss a couple of ingredients in a bowl, and voila!
3. Shawarma
Shawarma is one well-traveled meal. It has traveled beyond its Middle Eastern borders to other countries and hasn’t disappointed. This wrap contains spiced grilled meat, veggies, and creamy sauce that will have your taste buds on a trip around the world.
Shawarma is very versatile because it can be customized to suit your needs. If you are vegan or vegetarian, you can simply opt for a wrap with beans, rice, veggies and greens instead.
4. Falafel
Falafel is tiny crunchy balls of goodness made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, or both. You can serve this meal with a dipping sauce or salad.
Some also prefer to have a falafel sandwich by stuffing the deep-fried chickpea balls between pita, then topping with sauce, hummus, salad, pickles, and whatever you would like in your sandwich.
5. Freekeh
Freekeh is a fiber-rich African cereal made from green durum wheat. This cereal also contains calcium, iron, zinc, and a good dose of protein.
Worried about the taste? Worry not! Freekeh has a rich nutty, and smoky taste that will make you want to eat it every day for breakfast. It is healthy and can be customized to suit your taste by eating with a bowl of fruit and milk or adding it to your soups, salads, or stews.
6. Knafeh
Knafeh is another Middle Eastern delicacy you should try. Often served as a dessert, this dish is made from spun pastry soaked in sweet syrup. It is often layered with nuts, soft cheese, or clotted cream.
Serve the knafeh with a drizzle of honey or extra syrup and a cup of fresh coffee. Travel beyond with this exquisite dish, and thank me later!
7. Hummus
You've probably had hummus as a spread or dip for fries or as a spread, but have you had it in all its glory the Israeli way? In the Middle East, hummus is served as a main dish drizzled with olive oil, topped with some chickpeas, and garnished with fresh basil leaves. You may even add extra toppings if you would like.
Hummus is made by blending garbanzo beans with garlic, tahini, and lemon juice. It is packed with minerals and vitamins that your body needs, and above all, it is delicious!
8. Bourekas
Bourekas are a popular Israeli baked pastry made with a thick buttery outer crust and a cheesy filling. You may also fill this delicious pastry with meat, potatoes, and veggies of your choice.
The flakey crust will take your taste buds on a wild journey. So, if you are ever looking for an Israeli dish to try out with friends on a lazy day, this is it!
9. Couscous
Like shawarma, couscous is one Middle Eastern dish that has become a crowd favorite. It is mostly eaten in different parts of Africa.
This meal is made by steaming small balls of semolina and is served with a delicious stew packed with veggies and meat. What’s there not to love?