Ronn Torossian’s Israel: Top 5 Israeli Dishes  

For those considering a trip to Israel, the food alone is enough of a reason to start packing bags and booking flights. While the food in Israel is often very healthy, it’s also incredibly more-ish, which often means that visitors eat more than they mean to. However, for a delicious vacation, there’s nowhere on the planet quite like Israel.

Here are just 5 dishes I recommend you try:

Fresh Hummus

The hummus in Israel is richer and more delicious than it is anywhere else in the world. One of the most well-known dishes of the Israeli cuisine, Hummus is served with hot fresh bread kept in paper bags that are designed to keep the chunks warm as diners’ tear into them. One of the most amazing hummus options available is the Masabacha which comes garnished with tahini, paprika, and chickpeas on top.

Falafel

Falafel is another well-known favorite in Israel. The origins of this snack go back centuries, and it’s a core element of the Israeli culture today. Available on most restaurant menus, falafel is made from chickpeas, fava beans, or a combination of both. Most falafel feasts come with hummus, pickled turnips, salad, and pita bread.

Kanafeh

An Arabic dish that’s very popular throughout many areas of Israel, this is a dessert that all visitors should try at least once. Essentially, it’s a cheesy pastry which has been soaked in a sugary syrup. It might sound strange, but it tastes amazing. To create Kanafeh, chefs take light pastry and heat it in butter, spreading over soft white cheese like goat’s cheese or Nabulsi. That cheesy bundle is then topped with more pastry and drenched in syrup during the last couple of minutes. Some regions serve the mixture with yogurt for added creaminess and flavor.

Meatballs and Sweet Potatoes

Vegetarians often enjoy the Israeli cuisine because there isn’t usually a lot of meat involved. However, those looking for something that does include meat should try out some of the meals that include traditionally-made meatballs and sweet potatoes.

The baked sweet potato really helps to bring out the flavor of the meatballs, which are cooked in a wide range of delectable spices that most people can’t find back home. Meatballs in Israel taste best when they’re served alongside some fresh goat yogurt.

Lechem Bread

Thanks to the overwhelming popularity of hummus, bread is a common side dish in Israel. In fact, visitors will often be served bread with every meal, ranging all the way from pita bread to walnut bread. However, one of the best offerings available in this country is the incredible lechem bread.

This traditional fare is warm and filling – unlike anything available in a local supermarket and it’s a great way to add something special to a hearty meal. The best way to eat Lechem bread is right after it’s been baked with love.

Ronn Torossian is the CEO and Founder of 5W Public Relations.