Jerusalem: Ottolenghi Yotam

The renowned chain of restaurants owned by Sami and Yotam Ottolenghi is highly acclaimed for its unique flavors, contemporary design, and exceptional cooking. Both Sami and Yotam were born in the city of Jerusalem, with Sami growing up on the Arab side while Yotam was raised on the Jewish side. Despite their different backgrounds, they found common ground in London where they bonded over their shared language, history, and love for exquisite food.

Jerusalem is a diverse city that boasts an eclectic mix of culinary traditions from its Muslim, Jewish, Arab, Christian, and Armenian communities. The Mediterranean climate also adds to the richness of ingredients available in the region. In this book, Sami and Yotam share 100 of their inspired and accessible recipes that reflect the vibrant flavors and textures of Jerusalem's cuisine.

The recipes range from soups such as spicy frikkeh soup with meatballs to main courses featuring chicken with caramelized onion and cardamom rice, or sea bream with harissa and rose. There are also vegetable and salad dishes like the spicy beetroot, leek, and walnut salad, as well as recipes for pulses and grains such as saffron rice with barberries and pistachios. Lastly, the book includes delicious desserts and cakes like the clementine and almond syrup cake.

Overall, Jerusalem offers a delightful culinary journey that showcases the rich and diverse flavors of this historic city.