Israel has been dubbed the “vegan capital of the world” and for good reason. The country boasts over 400 vegan restaurants, making it the highest per capita in the world. The cuisine is heavily influenced by Middle Eastern flavors, which lends itself well to plant-based ingredients like falafel, hummus, and tahini.
The country also holds a vegan festival called Vegan Fest, which draws in thousands of visitors every year. In addition to the food scene, Israel is also home to the largest vegan population in the world, with an estimated 5% of the population following a vegan diet.
With such a thriving vegan culture, it’s no surprise that Israel has become a top destination for vegan travelers from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply looking to explore new plant-based options, Israel has something to offer everyone.
Starters / Breads / Sides
Israeli cuisine is known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients, making it a great place for vegans to explore. When it comes to vegan starters, Israel has plenty of options to choose from. One classic dish is hummus, a creamy dip made with chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil. Another popular choice is baba ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip that’s perfect for scooping up with warm pita bread.
For something a little more filling, try falafel, crispy fried balls made with ground chickpeas and herbs. And don’t forget about stuffed grape leaves, or dolmades, filled with a tangy mix of rice and lemon juice. Israeli vegan starters are sure to satisfy any appetite.
Mains
Israeli cuisine offers a diverse range of vegan main dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Some popular options include falafel, hummus, shakshuka, stuffed eggplant, and sabich. These dishes incorporate a variety of spices, vegetables, and legumes, making them flavorful and filling. They are also often served with fresh herbs and salads for a complete meal.
Desserts
Israeli cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and unique culinary traditions, and its desserts are no exception. Vegan Israeli desserts are often a delicious blend of sweet and savory, with ingredients like tahini, date syrup, and citrus fruits being prominent features.
One popular vegan dessert is malabi, a creamy and cooling dessert made with coconut milk and topped with rosewater syrup and chopped pistachios. Halva is another classic Israeli sweet, made with ground sesame seeds and sweetened with honey or maple syrup.
Vegan versions of traditional Jewish desserts like rugelach and mandelbrot can also be found in Israeli bakeries. For a healthy dessert option, try an Israeli-style fruit salad sprinkled with za’atar seasoning, or make vegan chocolate truffles using high-quality Israeli olive oil.
And no list of Israeli vegan desserts would be complete without mentioning the beloved sweet pastry known as baklava, made with layers of flaky phyllo dough, nuts, and sweet syrup.
With so many delicious options to choose from, vegan Israeli desserts are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
