Israeli breakfast

An Israeli breakfast is a delightful and distinctive way to start the day, with roots tracing back to the kibbutzim communities in Israel. These communal farms laid the groundwork for what has now become a popular offering in hotels and restaurants throughout the country.

The tradition began when kibbutz members would have a light snack early in the morning before heading out to work in the fields. They'd return later for a more substantial mid-morning meal, closely resembling what we might call brunch today.

In modern Israeli hotels, this breakfast is typically presented as a self-service buffet, allowing guests to sample a wide variety of dishes. Smaller restaurants, however, might offer a more streamlined version with table service. Adhering to Kashrut laws, which prohibit the mixing of meat and dairy, the Israeli breakfast is entirely dairy-based. Therefore, you won't find ham or bacon on the menu. Instead, expect an array of cheeses, fish dishes like herring, and egg dishes such as shakshuka. Middle Eastern favorites like hummus and labneh, along with fresh vegetables, olives, salads, coffee, tea, juices, fruits, bread, and pastries, round out the spread.

Despite past attempts to replace this hearty breakfast with a simpler Continental one to cut costs, the rich tradition of the Israeli breakfast has endured. It offers a cultural and culinary experience that highlights the diverse flavors and ingredients of Israeli cuisine.