Tatbila is a condiment that is similar to a hot sauce and is typically served as a topping for hummus, and also as a sauce for falafel, shawarma, and other dishes popular in Palestinian cuisine.[1][2][3][4][5]
Etymology
The name "tatbila" is derived from the Hebrew word "tabil," which refers to a mixture of herbs and spices commonly used in Israeli cooking.[5][3][4]
Ingredients and preparation
Tatbila is made from a mixture of green chiles (such as serrano chiles), garlic, lemon juice, water, and various herbs and spices. The exact recipe can vary depending on the region and the individual cook's preferences, but common herbs and spices used include parsley, cilantro, cumin, and paprika.[3][5][2][1]
To prepare tatbila, the ingredients are typically combined in a food processor or blender and puréed until smooth. Some variations may call for additional ingredients, such as yogurt or mayonnaise, to give the condiment a creamier texture.[4]
Usage
Tatbila is traditionally served as a topping for hummus, both at home and at hummusiyas across the country. It is also served as a dipping sauce for falafel and other Middle Eastern street foods. It can also be used as a topping for salads such as Israeli salad, various roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.[3][5][2][1]
Popularity
Tatbila is a staple condiment in Israeli cuisine and can be found in restaurants and street food vendors throughout the country. Outside Israel, its popularity is most notable in the United Kingdom where recipes for tatbila have been featured in best-selling cookbooks by the likes of Yotam Ottolenghi, Sarit Packer, Itamar Srulovich, and others can be found in London on the menus of restaurants by Yotam Ottolenghi, Honey & Co.,[6] and others. Tatbila has also spread to other parts of the world, with many restaurants serving Israeli and Middle Eastern cuisine in Europe and North America offering their variations of tatbila.[7][3][5][2][1][8]
In recent years, tatbila has gained attention in food blogging and social media, with some food bloggers and influencers sharing their recipes and creative ways to use tatbila.[2][9]