otterlyslick
Culinary Explorer
I recently made Israeli Sabich, and it was an absolute delight! This flavorful pita sandwich is packed with fried eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, fresh vegetables, and a variety of delicious condiments. Originating from the Iraqi Jewish community and popular in Israel, Sabich is a satisfying and vibrant meal. Here’s how you can make your own Sabich at home:
Ingredients:
- For the Eggplant:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- Salt, for sprinkling
- Olive oil, for frying
- For the Hard-Boiled Eggs:
- 4 eggs
- For the Salad:
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Condiments:
- 1 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup tahini sauce
- 1/4 cup amba (pickled mango sauce, optional but traditional)
- 1/4 cup pickles, sliced
- For Assembling:
- 4 pita breads
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Eggplant:
- Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
2. Hard-Boil the Eggs:
- Place the eggs in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 9-12 minutes. Transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water to cool. Peel and slice the eggs.
3. Make the Salad:
- In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chopped parsley. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to mix.
4. Assemble the Sabich:
- Warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or in the oven.
- Cut the top off each pita to open the pocket. Spread a generous layer of hummus inside each pita.
- Layer with a few slices of fried eggplant, followed by slices of hard-boiled egg.
- Add a spoonful of the fresh salad and some pickles.
- Drizzle with tahini sauce and amba, if using.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
Israeli Sabich is a delicious and hearty pita sandwich that combines a variety of flavors and textures. The creamy hummus, crispy eggplant, fresh salad, and rich sauces make every bite a delight. It's perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Enjoy this taste of Israel in your own home!
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