web picture
Spring (yes, it's already here) signals the opening of the outdoor barbecue grilling season which reaches its peak on the Independance Day (also named, jokingly, National Mangal Day - 'mangal' being the hebrew word for both the griller and the grilling event itself ).
On weekends and holidays, the picnic spots of beaches, parks and forests become crowded, as mangal is a very popular leisure activity among israelis. Most homes are equipped with the essentials for a successfull outdoor mangal 'adventure': portable grill device , charcoal, skewers, and other accessories.
adding charcoal
The grilling procedure is called Al- Haesh (literally meaning On the fire); the Esh (the fire) being provided by either charcoal or gas.
Preparations start with buying the meat cuts from reliable butchers. Next, choosing the suitable spices from the market; then, marinating the stuff prior to placing it on the grill; fanning the smoke with some adequate cardboard or plastic fan...
The goodies that usually accompany the grilled stuff on the set table are: salads, fresh pita bread pockets, dips (tahine, hummus), unless it's during the intermediate days of Passover when we have 'matza' instead of bread , and other specific dips - instead of, or in addition to tahine and hummus.
looks very happy with the lamb meat on skewers and the matza
the cats searching the grass for treats
Vegans also have Al -Haesh. Instead of meat they place on the grill: tofu, veggies, eggplants, potatoes, mushrooms, fruit, and corn. This is best done by using skewers. The result is delicious.
web picture ; veggies on skewers