What traditional food do people eat in Bethlehem for Christmas?

Asked 4 years ago

This year, I want to do an Israeli-themed Christmas eve for my mom since she has always wanted to go there. What traditions do they have, and what food do they eat that I can replicate at home?

Bethlehem Christmas Arab christians Christmas tradition

Carmen Slabbert

Thursday, September 09, 2021

Having a Christmas meal in Bethlehem consists mostly of lamb, beef or goat. Keeping to the traditions of the Old Testaments. They also eat fish, poultry, eggs, goat cheese, almonds, honey, figs and dates. They would also have mamoul (butter cookies) filled with ajweh (date paste). Pork, shellfish, lobster and shrimp are forbidden. 