Food is a great way to experience a foreign culture. The Israeli cuisine is rich with a range of traditional flavors, from spicy kebabs and tabbouleh to classic challah and falafel. Here are some of the most delicious Israeli dishes to try in Israel.
- Hummus
Hummus has become a truly global favorite, but to truly experience its amazing taste, there is no substitute for a big bowl of fresh hummus served in an Israeli restaurant. It is a creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and tahini, an oft-used flavor enhancer made from crushed sesame seeds. Delicious and nutritious, hummus is best served with warm pita bread.
- Sabich
Sabich is a classic Israeli street food—an indispensable part of the country’s gastronomic landscape. It’s a sandwich that consists of hummus, boiled eggs, tahini, pickles, and Israeli salads, all stuffed into pitas or lafa bread. It’s the perfect meal if you want to savor the myriad flavors made available by Israeli cuisine.
- Falafel
Falafel is almost synonymous with Middle Eastern cuisine. Crispy little balls of ground chickpeas and fava beans, falafel is deep fried and served in pita with pickled vegetables and tahini. A popular vegetarian dish, falafel is also one of the most delicious Israeli dishes you can try in Israel.
- Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a popular Israeli breakfast dish, simple and filling. It’s a type of sweet and spicy poached egg that is cooked in a tomato sauce with bell peppers, onions, garlic, cilantro, and spices, then served over pieces of Israeli pita with feta cheese. There are many variations of shakshuka depending on regional and cultural influences, but one thing is certain: it’s always delicious.
- Shawarma
The shawarma is a classic kebab sandwich and a mainstay of Middle Eastern cuisine. This delicious dish is made with thin slices of marinated meat, usually lamb, goat, or chicken, which are slow-cooked on a vertical spit and then served in pita bread with a variety of traditional accompaniments, such as hummus, tahini, pickles, and even French fries.
- Bourekas
Bourekas are small, flaky pastries that are ubiquitous in Israel. These savory, triangle-shaped treats can be filled with anything from mashed potatoes, eggs, and feta cheese to spinach and mushrooms. Bourekas can be found nearly anywhere in Israel and make a delightful snack.
- Challah
Challah is a traditional braided bread that is popular throughout the Jewish world. It is served every Friday night at Sabbath and holiday meals in Israel and is eaten with butter or honey. It’s a staple of Israeli cuisine, and no meal or holiday is complete without it.
- Babaganoush
Babaganoush is a creamy eggplant dip that makes for the perfect accompaniment to any meal. It’s made from roasted eggplants, tahini, garlic, and various other spices, then blended into a smooth dip that’s perfect for pita chips or fresh vegetables.
- Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is an integral part of Middle Eastern cuisine and can be found in various versions across the region. It is a healthy salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and mint, with a light dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It’s best served with grilled fish or pita and hummus.
- Kreplach
Kreplach are small dumplings that are popular in Israel. These delicious little pasta pockets are usually filled with ground beef, onions, and spices, then boiled and served as part of a soup or eaten alone with a sauce or gravy. If you’re looking for something hearty and flavorful, kreplach is the perfect dish.
Israel is home to a rich and varied cuisine that takes inspiration from its many cultural influences. From hummus and falafel to shawarma and tabbouleh, the country’s unique flavors make for some of the tastiest dishes in the world. If you’re ever lucky enough to have the chance to try Israeli dishes in Israel, don’t miss out on the chance to sample some of these delicious recipes.
