KNOWING ISRAEL THROUGH FOOD

sayan chakraborty 20-Sep-2016 Image Source

There are many reasons one chooses to travel, especially a family vacation. Many people like to travel abroad in the summer months, when the days are longer and warm and the air is light with a cool breeze, making the weather pleasant, giving more time to explore the country as we immerse ourselves in its culture. The easiest way to do this is through food, which is significant part of Israeli culture, a nation that has absorbed a significant immigrant population, each being represented through culinary traditions which are integrated in the cuisine of their new Mediterranean home.

Just like India, each region in Israel offers its own adapted regional cuisine which reach beyond the popular falafel sandwiches, shawarma or shakshuka to tantalize your test buds, which is evident in the many food markets in the country that are popular among locals and tourists alike.

1. Mahane Yehuda, Jerusalem

A short walk from Jerusalemâ€™s city centre is the Mahane Yehuda market, which should be a must on every travellerâ€™s list, along with all the historic sites that are not to be missed in the Old City. During the day this loud and colourful market is full of vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats and breads, coffee shops and much more. Merchants reel in customers and indulge in dialogues that form backdrop to the positive energy resonating through the market place. In the evening see this market transform into a lively yet unconventional night spot, with bars featuring speciality drinks and live music, most with outdoor seating that will allow you to appreciate the â€œstreet-artâ€ gallery on the store shutters. The ambiance, lively people, captivating street arts, exceptional food and drinks make Mahane Yehuda trendy and special, so stop by a food joint while you walk down the street, dance a little while enjoying a drink and make your way to the next spot.

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2. Tel Aviv Markets

When in Tel Aviv, do as the locals do. We know thatâ€™s not how the saying goes, but there you will find a blend of Asian and European influences in all aspects, beginning with food being sold on in street stalls, shops and restaurants. Shuk HaCarmel (Carmel Market) is open every day except on Saturdays. If youâ€™re in the mood to bring a flare of Israeli food in to your kitchen by creating your own version, visit the famous Levinsky Spice Market, where you will find a variety of fresh local cheeses, breads and Mediterranean spices. Donâ€™t be surprised if you see some Indian lentils and spices lining the shelves.

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3. Food in the North

For a more authentic experience within the smaller communities in Israel, visit the Druze villages in the Golan Heights region in the north of the country. Indulge in the cultural experiences through their version of pita bread or labaneh. Visit the town of Nazareth, for their version of an authentic biblical meal or, what some locals call, the best knafeh which is a cheese pastry soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup. If you crave a fine dining experience, visit the many restaurants or world renowned chefs in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv or the resort city of Eilat and savour their creative fusions.