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Michal ’ s love for Israel is palpable and conversations with her will evoke in you an impatient yearning to visit as soon as it is safe to do so . But what is it that makes Israel so pleasurable ? Admittedly , when many people think of this country , thoughts gravitate to its religious significance , and tours to the Holy Land does bring a stream of visitors here every year . Israel ’ s appeal however , is that and so much more . Mélange visited virtually with Michal and enjoyed a delightful exploration of her homeland .
Michal admits to being a foodie so our journey starts here , with the palate .
Food scene
Israel ’ s culinary scene is unique , offering a delicious melting pot of food options , indicative of the many cultures that live here . The refreshingly diverse population , with people from all over the world embracing Israel as their home , has resulted in a food scene representative of places like Tunisia , Morocco , Syria , Lebanon , Poland , Denmark , Greece and many other countries . “ You can definitely see the multiple cultural influences in the food , and choices are extensive ,” Michal said . “ You can have Asian food , Mediterranean or fine French cuisine . Whatever ’ s the mood , there is something for every everyone .” The culinary landscape is delightfully expansive , but the country ’ s agricultural produce is definitely worthy of note . Because of the weather here , vegetables grown are of very high quality , therefore every morsel consumed brings pleasure to the palate . “ The Israelis products are so good that you can taste and smell the sun in every bite . That is what we ’ re exporting to different countries – avocados , oranges , cherry tomatoes . And it ’ s just evolving all the time ” Michal gushed , “ especially with Israel being an innovation and technology leader . For instance , growing amazing red peppers in the middle of the desert and dates ‘ to die for ’ - it ’ s like no place else in the world ”.
Traditional food
A colourful picture is painted of a lively , diverse food culture . One can easily visualize walking into a restaurant or strolling through city streets and being disconcerted by the many choices that abound – what should you eat ? But one thing is certain - visitors must not leave Israel without trying Shakshuka , described by Michal as “ one of the most traditional , and definitely my favorite taste of Israel . ” It is a dish made of eggs , tomato sauce , herbs , pepper and onions . “ You can have it for breakfast , brunch or dinner ,” added Michal , “ you can add topping such as Feta cheese , Mozzarella , eggplant or none at all . And you can definitely customize it with whatever ’ s your preference , but you ’ ve got to try Shakshuka .”
Shakshuka with Gluten free homemade cracker
Another must-have traditional “ Taste of Israel ” is the Challah Bread , typically eaten on ceremonial occasions , Jewish holidays and every Shabbat family dinner . A braided loaf made with egg , slightly sweet with a moist texture , this bread is of important significance to every Jewish house . Michal explained : “ Shabbat dinner is a special meal being held on Friday evening . Getting together , family and friends with a unique sense of ‘ belonging ’, it is very integral to the Israeli lifestyle .