Jerusalem

Winner of the Observer Food Monthly Cookbook of the Year in 2013, the book "Jerusalem" by Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi captures the spirit of their shared hometown and its vibrant culinary scene. Renowned for founding the successful Ottolenghi restaurant chain, known for its creative flavors and elegant aesthetics, the duo draws inspiration from the diverse cultural and religious tapestry of Jerusalem.Both Yotam and Sami hail from this unique city, though from contrasting backgrounds — Sami from the Arab east and Yotam from the Jewish west. Reunited decades later in London, they bonded over their mutual love for food and shared histories. Their book, "Jerusalem," presents 100 approachable recipes that reflect the rich mixture of influences from Muslim, Jewish, Arab, Christian, and Armenian traditions, all enhanced by the Mediterranean climate.The collection spans a wide variety of dishes, promising delightful discoveries for every palate. Whether it’s a hearty bowl of spicy frikeh soup with meatballs, a savory dish of chicken with caramelized onions and cardamom rice, or a fresh sea bream seasoned with harissa and rose, the offerings are abundant. Equally tempting are their vegetable and salad creations like the spicy beetroot, leek, and walnut combination, or their grains and legumes selection featuring saffron rice adorned with barberries and pistachios. To finish off the meal, indulgent cakes and desserts such as the clementine and almond syrup cake await.Accompanied by stunning photography, the book not only presents luscious recipes but also captures the vibrant essence of Ottolenghi’s culinary art, set against the rich backdrop of Jerusalem's diverse food heritage.