Israel
Israel incorporates many foods traditionally included in other Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, so foods such as falafel, hummus, shawarma, and couscous are widely popular. There are many options that include fish and barbecued meats, but many of the best Israeli foods are vegetarian and contain plenty of spices, seasoning, and herbs.
For dessert, Israelis love pastries and baked goods, such as knafeh (shredded filo pastry, layered with soft cheese and drenched in syrup) and rugalach (pastry rolled with a chocolate filling).
Wine has been produced in the Land of Israel since biblical times, but the foundation of today’s modern wine industry was established in 1882. And after a boom in winemaking in the 1990’s, today there are more than 250 boutique and 70 commercial wineries. 60,000 tons of grapes are harvested each year, of which about 11,400 tons are Cabernet Sauvignon. Israel is one among the up and coming countries producing wines of note today.
Israel incorporates many foods traditionally included in other Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, so foods such as falafel, hummus, shawarma, and couscous are widely popular. There are many options that include fish and barbecued meats, but many of the best Israeli foods are vegetarian and contain plenty of spices, seasoning, and herbs.
For dessert, Israelis love pastries and baked goods, such as knafeh (shredded filo pastry, layered with soft cheese and drenched in syrup) and rugalach (pastry rolled with a chocolate filling).
Wine has been produced in the Land of Israel since biblical times, but the foundation of today’s modern wine industry was established in 1882. And after a boom in winemaking in the 1990’s, today there are more than 250 boutique and 70 commercial wineries. 60,000 tons of grapes are harvested each year, of which about 11,400 tons are Cabernet Sauvignon. Israel is one among the up and coming countries producing wines of note today.
France
French cuisine is famous worldwide. With its formal techniques, emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple flavors French cooking is considered by many to be prestigious and respectable.
French dinners typically feature three courses, with the main dish being a combination of meat or fish along with vegetables and classic French pantry staples such as rice or pasta. In winter, heavier meals like roast beef, lamb roast, boeuf bourguignon stew, or coq au vin are served. Ingredients and dishes vary by region, but the meal is often accompanied by bread, wine, and mineral water.
While fresh fruit is a common dessert, more indulgent favorites include crème brûlée, macaroons, and a variety of pastries.
Cheese and wine are a major part of the cuisine and have been staples as an element of the French diet for many centuries. French wine is produced all throughout France, and France is one of the largest wine producers in the world.
Italy
Italian food is actually quite diverse, with each region taking pride in their own distinctive set of flavors. Most recipes are simple, with many dishes made up of few ingredients. Italian cooks rely on the quality of ingredients rather than complexity of preparation.
Pasta, and its innumerable forms and uses, is inextricably woven into the fabric of Italian life. Luxurious and decadent cheeses are also a staple of the Italian diet. Many artisan cheeses are produced in Italy and exported around the world. Fresh cheese is an important ingredient in their pizza. It is a must-try dish while you're on the peninsula, especially in Naples - it is said to be the best pizza in the world. Access to both the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas also mean that fresh seafood is abundant.
Gelato and tiramisu are among the most famous of Italian desserts.
Italy is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Italy is one of the world’s foremost producers, responsible for approximately one-fifth of the world wine production.
Italian food is actually quite diverse, with each region taking pride in their own distinctive set of flavors. Most recipes are simple, with many dishes made up of few ingredients. Italian cooks rely on the quality of ingredients rather than complexity of preparation.
Pasta, and its innumerable forms and uses, is inextricably woven into the fabric of Italian life. Luxurious and decadent cheeses are also a staple of the Italian diet. Many artisan cheeses are produced in Italy and exported around the world. Fresh cheese is an important ingredient in their pizza. It is a must-try dish while you're on the peninsula, especially in Naples - it is said to be the best pizza in the world. Access to both the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas also mean that fresh seafood is abundant.
Gelato and tiramisu are among the most famous of Italian desserts.
Italy is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. Italy is one of the world’s foremost producers, responsible for approximately one-fifth of the world wine production.