The Art of Hummus: Exploring Ancient Cuisines of the Shuk
PHILADELPHIA, Pa., February 1, 2021 — Middle Eastern and Israeli cuisines have soared in popularity in recent years. In fact, supermarket giant Whole Foods Market predicted middle eastern food would be a top trending cuisine in 2018 saying, “Things like hummus, pita and falafel were tasty entry points, but now consumers are ready to explore the deep traditions, regional nuances and classic ingredients of Middle Eastern cultures, with Persian, Israeli, Moroccan, Syrian and Lebanese influences rising to the top.” One of the key elements that makes Israeli food unique is the melting pot of different cultures and ethnicities that influence each dish. Many of these ethnic edibles can be found in Israel’s outdoor food markets featuring dozens of vendors selling fresh meat, fish, fruit and vegetables —most commonly known as the “shuk.”
The Machane Yehuda Market in Jerusalem and the Carmel Market in Tel Aviv are typically jam-packed with locals and tourists purchasing delectable delicacies originating from various parts of the Middle East, including mouthwatering flavors from Morocco, Yemin, Iraq and Ethiopia. On February 3, Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA) will transport Eastern Pennsylvania residents on a socially-distant adventure to these markets to explore the incredible ethnic dishes that await them across the Mediterranean sea, while also learning about each ethnic Jewish group’s resilience story of making aliyah (immigration to Israel).
“The event’s tour guide, Danny Stein, grew up in Philadelphia and attended the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (formerly Akiba Hebrew Academy) for middle and high school, where he had the opportunity to attend JNF-USA’s college prep study abroad program Alexander Muss High School in Israel,” said Women for Israel Co-Chair, Jackie Danilewitz. “He was inspired by his experience and instilled a love for Israel that influenced his desire to live there as an adult.”
“We’re thrilled to have a Philly native educate us on our virtual journey,” added Women for Israel Co-Chair, Lori Dabrow. “This type of virtual event is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. These types of stories about the various ethnic groups’ resilience of making aliyah are the hidden gems of the land of Israel.”
Event Details:
What: From Our Jewish Home to Our Jewish Homeland
When: February 3, 2021 at 5 pm ET
Where: Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Register here
Questions about the event? Contact Samantha van Adelsberg at svanadelsberg@jnf.org or 215-832-0690 x 863.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Jennifer Milton
P: 212-879-9305 x 875
About Jewish National Fund-USA
JNF-USA is the leading philanthropic organization for Israel that supports critical environmental and nation building activities in Israel’s north and south. Through its One Billion Dollar Roadmap for the Next Decade, JNF-USA is developing new communities in the Galilee and Negev, connecting the next generation to Israel, and creating infrastructure and programs that support ecology, individuals with special needs, and heritage site preservation.