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In the Galilee, biblical roots, rich agricultural heritage, and Mediterranean flavors give rise to Israel’s most soulful cuisine. These recipes first appeared in our May 2013 issue with Gabriella Gershenson’s article The Promised Land.

"Charred

Charred Eggplant with Chile Sauce & Tahini

Charring young eggplant over an open flame lends a smoky flavor to this dish from the Galilee. Get the recipe for Charred Eggplant with Chile Sauce & Tahini »

Chreime (Spicy Tunisian Fish Stew)

A Tunisian-Jewish Sabbath specialty, chreime features tender fish braised in a thick chile-spiced tomato sauce. See the recipe for Chreime »
"Israeli

Israeli Chopped Salad

Sumac and cinnamon heightens the flavors of this Israeli staple.
"Labaneh"

Labaneh

Thick, tart, and creamy, this yogurt-like cheese, is perfect eaten with olive oil, pita bread, and za’atar.
"Galilean

Galilean Beef Stew (Poike)

Any seasonal vegetable, from earthy turnips to pungent kohlrabi, can be added to this hearty beef stew. Get the recipe for Galilean Beef Stew (Poike) »
"Syrup-Soaked

Syrup-Soaked Cheese Pastry (Knafeh)

Syrup-Soaked Cheese Pastry (Knafeh)
"Galilean-Style

Galilean-Style Hummus (Hummus Maushaushe)

Generous spice, a good dose of olive oil, and chickpeas piled high are the hallmarks of this Galilean-style hummus.
"Grape

Grape Leaves Stuffed with Rice (Dolma)

This recipe for stuffed grape leaves uses both lemon juice and zest to enhance the flavor of the stuffing.
"Cherry

Cherry & Herb Salad

This sweet-tart cherry, cilantro, and walnut salad is delicious on its own or as a relish for grilled meats or fish.

Almond & Marzipan Roulade

Chef Erez Komarovsky’s buttery almond pastry, swirled through with marzipan and toasted nuts, makes a fine breakfast or afternoon snack. See the recipe for Almond & Marzipan Roulade »
"Grilled

Grilled Pita Bread with Za’atar

This chewy flatbread topped with za’atar, a spice blend of wild thyme, tangy sumac, and toasted sesame seeds, can be either grilled outdoors or oven-baked and finished in a grill pan.

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