Stephanie's Reviews > Zahav: A World of Israeli Cooking

Israeli and Israeli-American food with history

Michael Solomonov and Steven Cook's book bases on the cuisine of their restaurant, Zahav, in Philadelphia. The restaurant's cuisine is influenced by Israeli cuisine and Israeli-American cuisine. As Israeli cuisine is based on the food and culture of immigrants from many countries, especially Eastern Europe, but from Jewish communities all over the world. The author's cuisine was influenced by his Bulgarian grandparents who immigrated to Israel after World War II. In addition, Israeli cuisine is definitely defined by the ingredients available and seasoning, especially herbs, available despite the water shortages.
Solomonov provides a number of recipes, some offered at Zahav. (Which he co-owner with Cook). He also provides techniques that serve as a more general guide for Israeli-influenced food, as well as specific food, including sauces, challah, Matson balls, and a number of other dumplings. In addition to the recipes, Solomonov ties stories from his personal, familial, and cultural lives, the familial history is interesting as it provides a picture of Israeli and Israeli-American citizens, and their paths to living in both Israel and the United States.