10 Popular and Must-Try Typical Foods of Palestine

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The cuisine of Palestine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting the region's rich history and cultural influences. From the Mediterranean to the Middle East, each era has left its mark on Palestinian dishes. 

Summarizing from TasteAtlas, here is a list of ten popular Palestinian foods in the world.

1. Falafel

Falafel, a vegetarian staple, features chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) ground with fragrant herbs and spices like coriander, cumin, parsley, and onions. These flavorful nuggets are deep-fried until golden brown and enjoyed on pita bread with fresh vegetables, pickles, hummus, and tahini sauce (yogurt paste).

2. Hummus

Hummus, another vegetarian delight, is a creamy blend of mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. Its smooth texture and tangy flavor make it a versatile dip, perfect for pita bread, vegetables, or even as a topping for chicken or meatballs.

3. Maqluba

Maqluba, meaning "upside-down" in Arabic, is a visually stunning dish. Layers of seasoned rice, meat (chicken or lamb), and vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, and cauliflower are cooked together and then flipped onto a serving plate. This theatrical presentation reveals a colorful mosaic of textures and flavors, further enhanced by a sprinkle of nuts, raisins, and fresh herbs.

4. Musakhan

Musakhan features tender chicken roasted with a unique blend of Palestinian spices, including sumac. The chicken is served atop a bed of taboon bread (a flatbread baked in a clay oven) and drizzled with olive oil. Caramelized onions and pine nuts add a touch of sweetness and crunch, while yogurt provides a cooling contrast.

5. Mujaddara

Mujaddara is a comforting combination of rice, lentils, and caramelized onions. This simple dish is often served with a fresh salad, sauteed onions, and yogurt (plain or with garlic) for added depth. Pita bread complements the dish perfectly, allowing you to scoop up every delicious bite.

6. Sumaghiyyeh

Sumaghiyyeh, a specialty from Gaza, is a dish reserved for celebrations like weddings, Eid al-Fitr, and funerals. Sumac-infused water is combined with tahini and flour to create a base, which is then enriched with cooked meat, herbs, vegetables like radishes and chickpeas, and warming spices. Green onions, pickles, peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil complete this flavorful dish.

7. Qedreh

Qedreh, a Hebron specialty, is a hearty stew featuring lamb cooked in a flavorful broth infused with garlic, onion, cumin, turmeric, cardamom, and black pepper. The dish incorporates rice and sheep's milk butter for richness. Traditionally cooked in a copper pot for even heat distribution, Qedreh is often served with a cooling yogurt sauce and fresh tomatoes.

8. Kunafah

Kunafah, a beloved Palestinian dessert, hails from the city of Nablus. This rich treat features layers of crispy filo dough or semolina dough filled with soft white cheese and drenched in fragrant sugar syrup. Kunafah is often adorned with chopped pistachios and is best enjoyed warm. Its irresistible sweetness and contrasting textures make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

9. Makdous

Makdous are small eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mixture of walnuts, garlic, and red peppers. These unique bites are then pickled and stored in olive oil to preserve their taste and texture. Makdous is a popular appetizer or mezze, enjoyed alongside other small plates.

10. Taboon

null

Taboon bread is a key component of the cuisines of Palestine. This flatbread, traditionally baked in a clay oven, boasts a distinctive puffy shape. Made with simple ingredients like flour, water, yeast, and sugar, taboon bread is a versatile delight. Enjoy it warm, stuffed with falafel, shredded meat, or hummus. It's also perfect for scooping up flavorful stews and sauces.

ANGGITA VIANDHINI NUGROHO PUTRI 

Editor’s Choice: Expert Warns of Sushi with Risks of Food Poisoning

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News