When I asked several Israeli friends how they celebrate Yom HaAtzma-ut, Israel’s Independence Day, they replied, “With a barbecue, of course!” According to Sheila Mendel of Kibbutz Ramat Hashofet, “People are barbecuing everywhere, even in the middle of the street. Our kibbutz usually has a giant barbecue, with steaks, kabobs, Israeli salad, hummous, tachina, pita and eggplant salad.
Israeli crowds feast on falafel, which is informally considered Israel’s national dish. Since falafel is deep-fried and very high in fat, here is a great alternative. Try this delicious recipe for Grilled Falafel, so you can feel culinarily connected with Israel! It comes from Faye Levy’s latest cookbook 1000 Jewish Recipes. Serve it with Tahini Sauce from my cookbook Healthy Helpings! B’tayavon!