National Dish Israel: Sabich Sandwich (Recipe)
In this article
Meet the Sabich Sandwich, one of Israel’s most beloved street foods and a true celebration of flavour. Pillowy pita is stuffed with golden fried aubergine, sliced hard-boiled eggs, fresh herbs and a generous swirl of tahini and hummus. Brought to Israel by Iraqi Jews, it has become a fixture of stalls in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem — hearty, satisfying and endlessly adaptable. Bring this bold, layered classic straight to your own kitchen.
About Sabich Sandwich
The Sabich Sandwich is a genuine feast of flavours that is growing more popular not just in Israel but around the world. It was brought to Israel by Iraqi Jews and quickly became a firm favourite. The combination of grilled aubergine, hard-boiled eggs, fresh herbs and an array of sauces creates a taste experience that is hard to beat in Israeli cooking. Its versatility makes it not only delicious but also ideal for a whole range of diets.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 large aubergines
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 2 pita breads
- Fresh parsley or coriander
- 1 large tomato
- 1 small onion
- Tahini sauce
- Hummus
- Black pepper and salt to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
For a successful Sabich Sandwich it is important to buy your ingredients fresh in order to get the best flavour. Visit your local market or supermarket to find good-quality aubergines and fresh eggs. Make sure the herbs and vegetables are fresh, as they account for so much of the taste. Sauces such as tahini and hummus can also be made from scratch, which gives the dish an extra-special touch.
Preparing the dish
Before you start putting the Sabich Sandwich together, it helps to have all your ingredients ready. Slice the aubergines into thick rounds and salt them to draw out any excess liquid. The hard-boiled eggs should be peeled and cut into slices. Wash the vegetables, such as tomatoes and onions, and chop them into small pieces to make the preparation quicker and smoother.
Step-by-step instructions
- Fry the aubergine slices in olive oil until golden brown, soft and tender.
- Cut open the pita breads and toast them lightly to keep them warm.
- Spread the fried aubergine evenly across the pitas.
- Lay the sliced hard-boiled eggs over the aubergine.
- Add the fresh herbs and the chopped vegetables.
- Finish with a drizzle of tahini sauce and hummus, then serve.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
One of the great things about the Sabich Sandwich is how adaptable it is. To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free tortillas or wraps in place of pita bread. For a lactose-free version, choose plant-based options for the hummus or tahini. There are plenty of great recipes for vegan hummus that are simple to make yet still taste wonderful. Try a few different variations to find the perfect solution for your needs.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans, the Sabich Sandwich is quickly adapted by leaving out the eggs and focusing on the delicious aubergine and the sauces. You could also add new ingredients such as avocado or fried mushrooms to bring in extra textures and flavours. Vegetarians can enjoy the dish just as it is, but it is well worth using local, seasonal vegetables. The result is not only a tasty dish but a sustainable meal too.
More tips and tricks
To perfect your Sabich Sandwich, try a few different cooking methods. You can also grill the aubergine or roast it in the oven for a different flavour. Experiment with different sauces — a spicy option alongside the classic tahini can make the dish even more interesting. You can vary the spices as well to tailor it to your own preferences.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Everyone has different taste preferences, and the Sabich Sandwich is easily adjusted to suit yours. Like it hotter? Add a little chilli sauce. Prefer something milder? Cut back on the spices and lean more on the fresh herbs. If you enjoy experimenting, try adding other vegetables such as courgette or peppers to create a unique flavour experience. The same fresh, herb-forward spirit runs through a bowl of Tabouleh.
Ingredient substitutions
For anyone with allergies or following a special diet, the Sabich Sandwich offers plenty of good alternatives. Instead of tahini you can use sunflower seed butter, which gives a similar creaminess. In place of pita bread, wraps or lettuce leaves make a healthy and attractive option. Your personal preferences and restrictions can be worked in creatively to make a satisfying and tasty dish. A smoky dip such as Baba Ganoush also makes a lovely swap for the tahini layer.
Drink pairing ideas
The Sabich Sandwich goes beautifully with a wide range of drinks that complement its flavours. A refreshing lemon iced tea or a lightly spiced pomegranate juice can be lovely on hot days. Alternatively, Israeli wines or light beers pair well too. Just be sure the drinks do not overpower the taste of the sandwich, but rather sit alongside it as harmonious companions.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your Sabich Sandwich can greatly improve the eating experience. Serve it on a prettily arranged plate with fresh herbs as a garnish. Small bowls of sauces such as tahini or Hummus beside the sandwich draw attention to the different flavours. Colourful vegetables on the plate make the dish not only appealing to the eye but also whet the appetite.
A bit of history
The Sabich Sandwich has its roots in the Jewish cuisine of the Middle East, particularly the Iraqi tradition. It was originally served as a breakfast dish but is today a beloved street food right across Israel. In Tel Aviv and Jerusalem especially you will find countless stalls offering it. Its combination of ingredients is representative of the diversity of Israeli cuisine, which draws together cultures and traditions from many different regions.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Sabich Sandwich
The Sabich Sandwich is an extraordinary dish that delights not only as street food but also reflects the diversity of Israeli cooking. With its delicious ingredients and simple preparation, it is perfect for any occasion. Whether vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, everyone can create their own favourite sabich. Let the food culture of Israel inspire you and enjoy this delicious dish in the comfort of your own home!
