Spring is here in Israel and Yom Ha’atzmaut (Independence Day) is approaching. It’s a complicated time of year, bringing together thoughts about Israel’s history, the path that we’ve taken to gain our independence, and the struggles and successes that we still face every day in maintaining the Jewish country in our historic homeland.
What once seemed like a dream for the early Zionists is now a reality- a true Jewish country that is blossoming. Yet we can’t forget the heavy price that we’ve paid to achieve our country, both in the past and unfortunately still today.
This box is dedicated to shalom, peace, in Israel, Ukraine, and throughout the world.
So, what’s inside your Israeli Shalom Box?
Hamsa with a Peace Dove by Beit Miriam
This Chamsa, made by the handicapped at Beit Miriam, will serve as a daily reminder of the peace that we are all longing for. The combination of the dove and the hamsa symbol are a reminder of the protection that we all need while searching for peace, both individually and as a country.
Ras El Hanut Spice by Ayelet Spices
Founded out of the desire to create wholesome, gluten-free spices and spice mixes that were accessible to the Israeli public, Ayelet created Ayelet Spices, the easiest way to turn your kitchen Israeli in a pinch :) Ras El Hanut is an Egyptian and Moroccan spice mix and includes allspice, coriander, nutmeg, and more. No Yom Ha’atzmaut is complete without a BBQ and this is the perfect addition to your ground meat- see our blog for our favorite kebab recipe!
Gold-Plated Dove Necklace – Hila Assa
Hila Assa is an Israeli artist who creates gorgeous gold-plated jewelry. This dove necklace is the perfect testament to the Shalom box, made here in Israel and symbolizing our constant desire and yearning for peace. Wear it proudly as a reminder of Israel and our hope for eventual Shalom.
Tehina by Artzieli
Now that you’ve made your kebab, it’s time to add some tehina on the side! Artzieli is an Eilat-based boutique selling products made in the land of Israel. This tehina is made from the highest quality sesame seeds, with no additional ingredients and is just about as healthy as you can get. It’s the perfect addition to your main course, as a dressing for salad, or as a dip!
Halva Coated Pecans by Kingdom of Halva
Don’t say I didn’t warn you… this is the ULTIMATE Israeli snack! Kingdom of Halva has created a name for itself for making some of the best halva in Israel and is based in Machne Yehuda market in Jerusalem. This version includes pecan nuts covered in high-quality, sweet halva. When you’re done with your Yom Ha’atzmaut BBQ, this is the perfect dessert :)
It’s hard to believe that it’s that time of year again… Pesach!
Here in Israel we call Pesach by multiple names including חג אביב or “spring holiday”. It represents the beginning of a new season, the blossoming of the flowers, the beautiful weather… truly, there is no better time of year here.
The excitement starts way before the actual seder night. With spring cleaning, holiday prep, buying presents for loved ones (don’t forget, we love to give gifts during Pesach!), and more, it’s no surprise that Pesach is one of, if not the, favorite holidays for Israelis. During Pesach, we celebrate the freedom of our people, and it only feels fitting that this year, we’re starting to return to “normal” (hopefully for good!).
This month, I invite you to join me in discovering the traditions and customs of Pesach here in Israel.
What’s inside your South Israel Support IsraeliBox?
Matzah/Afikomen “Pocket” by Gvanim
Made by the people with disabilities at Gvani, this matzah holder is the perfect way to hide your afikomen during your Pesach seder!
Imprinted with the words הלילה הזה כולו מצה – “tonight is all matzah”, you’ll bring Hebrew and special meaning to your table.
Horseradish Paste with Beets by Meshek Lin
Meshek Lin is a family run farm, with a focus on raising bees (for honey production) and creating a range of natural Israeli products including honey, sauces, spreads, tahini and more.
This horseradish paste (known as chazeret in Hebrew), is a great way to add horseradish to your table with an interesting twist. Together with beets, this horseradish is unique and exceptionally delicious!
Confiture d’Oignons by the Well Delicatessan
Husband and wife, Inbar and Sigal Shafat, the owners of “The Well Delicatessen” create the best dips, spreads, and more using local products from the Galilee.
Confiture d’Oignons or onion jam is a staple here in Israel during Pesach, specifically eaten with liver pate (or chopped liver if you prefer!). Made with onions, chili, and other spices, you’ll love eating this all Pesah long.
Jerusalem Tea by ShalvaTea
David Ross, founder of ShalvaTea, fell in love with Israel when doing his Masters in Forestry at Yale, and eventually made Aliyah after studying the Carmel Forest fires of 2010.
He collected herbs to connect to the land of Israel which eventually led to the birth of Shalva, meaning peace, calm, and tranquility. Made from pure Israeli herbs, each sip is filled with the feeling “shalva”. This tea mixture, representing “next year in Jerusalem”, is made from herbs found in Jerusalem and the surrounding area.
Spring Hand Cream with Chamomille and Melissa by Body Shop
The Body Shop is an Israeli company, combining natural materials, medical information and groundbreaking technology together to create phenomenal products.
In Israel, Pesach is also known as the “Spring Holiday” and this cream is the perfect way to welcome the spring season. With chamomile and melissa, your skin will feel moisturized and protected for hours (and with a great smell!).
This month we’re celebrating… Israeli childhood. This is a box I’ve wanted to create for a long time, pinpointing the unique characteristics of being a child in Israel, remembering my childhood, the special memories and the things that remind me of why I think childhood in our country is so special. From the independence that Israeli kids face, the reality of having to deal with difficult subjects from a young age (the army, wars, etc.), and the wonderful weather that lets our children roam free outdoors with their friends, being an Israeli child is exceptional. In this box I’ve gathered some of my favorite memories from my childhood together with things that my own children love. I’m sure you (and your children) will love them too!
What’s inside your Israeli Childhood IsraeliBox?
“Choice in Life” Decorate Key by Shanti House
This key serves as a reminder of the choices that we make everyday in life, an important message for the youth living in the Shanti Houses. Hang it on your wall or place it on your desk, as a symbol of the important choices we make everyday, especially as children.
Taki by Chaim Shafir
If there’s a game that reminds me of Israeli childhood, it’s Taki! Haim Shafir, a world-famous game inventor, invented Taki in 1983, having become an Israeli classic ever since. If you’ve never played Taki, now’s your chance… it’s the perfect way to have an Israeli themed game night!
Bath Bombs by Meydale
Hila Doron, otherwise known as Meydale, is a small, family-run business creating soaps, bath bombs and other great-smelling products in their boutique factory. This set of three bath bombs, will bring you back to your days of bubble baths as a kid… but in totally luxurious style. With salt and mud from the lowest place on Earth, close your eyes and imagine that you’re floating in the Dead Sea while in your home bathtub 🙂
Mikupelet and Popping Chocolate by Elite
It wouldn’t be a childhood box without some chocolate and Israeli sweets. Mikupelet is a unique Israeli chocolate, with a patented secret shape. My tip: add it to a cup of warm milk for the ultimate hot chocolate treat. Popping chocolate… I don’t want to give it away too quickly. Pop it in your mouth and enjoy the ride.
Halva Bamba and Apropo by Osem
Bamba and Apropo are the two most well-known Israeli snacks, and no story about Israeli childhood would be complete without them. Osem decided to add an extra Israeli twist by creating a Bamba filled with halva (note: contains peanuts and sesame!). Apropo is a popular and distinctly Israeli snack, made mostly of corn, that is great dipped in a bowl of Labaneh. You can substitute for sour cream 🙂 Apropo is gluten-free!
This month we’ll explore the Israeli desert and everything it has to offer, from places and locations to the best products and tastes.
Yalla, let’s head to the midbar (desert!).
What’s inside your Israeli Desert IsraeliBox?
Cactus Glass Dish by Susan’s House
Made by the at-risk youth in Susan’s House Eilat, this cactus dish serves as a reminder of the Israeli plant that symbolizes the desert as well as the important work by non-profits in the area. Cactus, or “sabra” in Hebrew is how native-born Israelis are called. Do you know why?
Camel Milk Shower Gel by Nacca Soap
Ruti Ben Artzi, owner of Nacca Soap, makes handmade soaps based on natural products only including camel milk, olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter, and more. Camel milk is known for its healthy characteristics, and Ruti adds the milk into her products for a truly special treat. This Camel Milk Shower Gel features lavender oil, and will leave your skin feeling refreshed, just like after a visit in the desert :-)
Goat-Antelope Notepad by “Devarim B’midbar”- Things in the Desert
Dafna, owner of Devarim B’midbar, studio, moved to the Negev desert in 2005 and that’s when her love story with the desert began (or really, continued). In her studio in Yerucham, she creates products out of clay and other materials, with a connection to the land and what makes the desert special. This notepad features the famous goat-antelope of the desert, that you can see everywhere! Just stop on the side of the road and you’ll be sure to get a glance of a “Yael” (goat-antelope). It’s the official welcome for every Israeli that enters the desert.
3 Organic Snack Bars with Dried Fruits by Neot Smadar
Neot Smadar is a business that I go back to every time I visit (and think about) the desert. After all, growing organic products in the heart of the desert is pretty cool, don’t you think? This month, in honor of the desert and upcoming Tu B’shvat, your box features 3 organic snack bars amongst a variety of flavors: desert apricot, desert fig, desert date, and desert date with yogi berries. Be’teavon!
Sun-dried Tomato Paste by Kesem Hamidbar
Kesem Hamidbar, meaning the magic of the desert, is truly a magical place. Creating spreads and dips, jams, sauces, and more made from the fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the middle of the desert, Kesem Hamidbar uses no chemicals or preservatives for a true desert flavor. This sun-dried tomato paste features za’atar grown in Kedesh Barnea in the desert as well as fresh tomatoes. Check out our blog for a great recipe this month!
Welcome to the Israeli Melting Pot, one of the most unique and different boxes we have ever created here at Israelibox. One of the most interesting parts of Israel, if you ask me, is the exceptional diversity and background of the Jews that make up Israeli culture today. Each group brings its own story, traditions, foods, and so much more to Israeli society, to create a true melting pot of cultures. Here in Israel, you can find Eastern European, Middle Eastern, Northern African, Persian, Ethiopian, Russian and so many other Jews that come together to share a religion, with vastly different interpretations and representations. It’s magical! This month I invite you to join me in understanding and experiencing some of the different backgrounds that make up the Israeli Melting Pot.
What’s inside your Melting Pot IsraeliBox?
4 Greeting Cards with Traditional Ethopian Drawings and Words – Rokmot
Give the gift of Ethiopian culture with these greeting cards, a replication of the unique embroidery work by the women of Rokmot. With the bold colors that are traditional in Ethiopian art, these cards feature the words ahava (love), todah (thank you), chibuk (hug), and mazal tov, together with their Amharic translations.
Iraq: Bahart Spice by Ayelet Spices
Bahart is a traditional spice mix used in the Iraqi kitchen, specifically in “tabit”, the famous Iraqi chicken dish. Tabit is a slow cooked cholent dish whose variations can be found in a wide range of kitchens. The mix features black pepper, allspice, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon and is perfect with any slow-cooked meat dish! Check out the recipe on our blog.
Egypt/Syria: Mixture for Majadara Rice by Derech Hatavlinim
Derech Hatavlinim is a family business, having grown spices for over fifty years. Today, the Derech Hatavlinim has become a trademark for high-quality Israeli spices. I chose to add this Majadara mix to highlight the Middle Eastern kitchens and their affinity for strong flavors and spices. Add this mix while cooking rice to make traditional “Majadara”. Be careful! Once you start eating Majadara, you’ll never go back to plain white rice!
Tripoli (Libya): “Mei Zohar” (Orange Flower Water) by Pereg
The story of Pereg starts (appropriately) in Libya back in 1906, where Avraham Prig and his family lived and breathed spices. When they made Aliyah in 1948 (and changed their name to Pereg meaning poppy seed), they started spreading their love for spices throughout the land of Israel, with future generations of the family being born into the family business (and love of the land!). Mei Zohar (orange flower water) is made through a purification process from the buds of citrus fruit. North African Jews and specifically Libyans use it while making mallabi and sachleb (recipes on our blog!) as well as rubbing it on their hands for a refreshing smell at various life events.
Poland: Kitchen Towel by Hapolania
At the end of the day, in each of us (or our mothers!) lives a Jewish Polish mother who loves to worry and loves to love. With that concept, Michal Fishbein created “Hapolania”- the Polish Woman. Her creative and witty designs bring out the true Polish mother in each of us and put a smile on my face each time I look at her products. This dish towel says “Careful- It’s hot! Eat – It’s getting cold!” the perfect summary of the Polish mother dilemma. Hapolania has a unique line of products featuring these “Polish” phrases that all of us use every day without even noticing it!
Happy Hanukkah! This month is dedicated to one of the most unique, exciting and beautiful holidays in Israel and throughout the world… Hanukkah! Hanukkah in nicknamed the “holiday of lights”, which can be seen on the window of each home throughout the country during the celebratory holiday. It’s an opportunity for us to get together with family and friends (after nearly two years that we didn’t have the chance), to eat some of our favorite (fried!) foods and bask in the holiday atmosphere. I simply love Hanukkah in Israel and the feeling in the air. If you haven’t experienced it… you must!
What’s inside your Hanukkah Box?
Hanukkah Candles by Larger than Life
This year, Larger than Life has come out with a special line of Hanukkah products, with all proceeds going towards building special day cares that are sterile and safe for kids with cancer. When you light these Hanukkah candles, remember that you’re shining light onto the lives of these special children.
Pomegranate and Raspberry Jam by Aunt Berta
Aunt Berta’s family arrived in Israel in the 1960s, creating wonderful jams, dressings and sauces with the goal of maintaining the taste of the fruits back in their village in Europe, from her kitchen in Zichron Ya’akov. This pomegranate and raspberry jam will add an Israeli twist to your sufganiyot this Hanukkah season.
Lemon Pickle Spread by The Well Delicatessen
Sigal and Inbar Shafat, the couple behind “The Well Delicatessen” create the best dips, spreads, and more using local products from the Galilee. Lemon pickle spread is a favorite of many here in Israel including on the famous “Frikesee” sandwich, a Tunisian specialty that is served on deep-fried bread (great for Hanukkah!). Check out the recipe on our blog this month!
Nes Gadol Haya Po Dreidel by Emanuel
Yair Emanuel, one of the most prominent Israeli artists today, makes Judaica products from his studio in Jerusalem that adorn the homes of Israelis and Jews worldwide. This dreidel features the letters נ, ג, ה, פ – standing for Nes Gadol Haya Po (a great miracle happened HERE) and the gorgeous scenery of Jerusalem. Play with children or friends for a reminder of the great miracle that happened during Hanukkah here in the Holy Land!
Hanukkah Cookie Cutters, Decorative Arch and Confetti
Who doesn’t love decorating for Hanukkah? This month I’ve gathered a variety of fun Hanukkah decorations from some of my favorite decoration stores that help us get into the holiday spirit and come together to celebrate the holiday of lights. These decorations are just a glimpse into the amazing products you can find here during Hanukkah to make your holiday a bit more fun and festive!
There’s so much to say about Ivrit (Hebrew!), I don’t even know where to begin. The connection between our country and religion’s history to our current everyday language, the beauty in the words, the fact that Hebrew is the only ancient language to have been revived, it’s all fascinating.
Hebrew today has become a symbol of our culture, integrating words and phrases that epitomize who we, the Israelis truly are. I personally feel a great connection to our language (more on that later!) and am fascinated by its history and current day status.
In this box, we’ll explore the Hebrew language and everything that is wonderful about it.
What’s inside your Ivrit Box?
“Happiness” אושר Wood Mandala by Ma’arag
This mandala features the word אושר meaning happiness. Made by the people with disabilities at Ma’arag, this piece is the perfect way to bring a piece of Israel, and Hebrew into your home.
60% Dark Chocolate with Coffee by Holy Cacao
This 60% dark chocolate bar features roasted coffee flavors for a super delicious treat.
“A Moment for Myself” Graffiti Bookmark by Ofek Vertman
This bookmark features graffiti and Hebrew sayings from Tel Aviv, to remind you of the Hebrew language, even if you’re reading in English! On the top of the bookmark you’ll find אני אוהבת אותך – I love you as well as עם ישראל חי – the people of Israel live. On the back, רגע לעצמי- a moment for myself- enjoy it!
Hebrew letter silicone baking pattern by Havaya Home
Bringing Hebrew into your kitchen has never been easier! Create letters out of chocolate for cakes, gummy bears, fondant, or any other fun idea that comes to mind when you’re in the kitchen.
The Chef is אני Apron by Izy
This apron will help complete the Hebrew experience in your kitchen with its fun play on words. “The chef is אני” aka “The chef is me” saying on your apron will bring a smile to your face and improve your Israeli cooking (we promise!).
Welcome to the lowest spot on Earth… the Dead Sea! The Dead Sea (or the Salt Sea like we call it in Hebrew) is one of the most famous spots in Israel, with its overwhelming beauty and magical powers of healing. While the Dead Sea is one of the biggest tourist sites in Israel (and for good reason), us Israelis love to visit to get away for a weekend, enjoy the spas and great hotels in the area, the beautiful hikes, and of course, the one of a kind products that are available in the area only. This box features everything that is amazing in the Dead Sea area. I love these products and I’m sure you will too!
What’s inside your Dead Sea Box?
Dead Sea Mud Soap by Adva– This Dead Sea salt features Israeli olive oil, coconut oil, almond oil, shea butter, salt, mud from the Dead Sea and more. Perfect for all skin types for your body and your face, you’ll feel like you just got a great treatment at the Dead Sea after using it!
Organic Garlic Salt by 424 below sea level – It wouldn’t be a Dead Sea box without some salt! 424 Salt creates Dead Sea products that are collected by hand, dried with natural evaporation, and certified as 100% natural. This organic garlic salt brings the Dead Sea straight to your table while adding a touch of garlic for great flavor for any meal.
Medjool dates by Naot Semadar – On any drive to the Dead Sea, you can’t miss the gorgeous palm trees along the way. Naot Semadar creates natural and organic products, featuring some of the best dates available in the country. This month’s box contains a box of Medjool dates, the super juicy and amazing dates that all Israelis love to eat. Want some inspiration for how to use them in your kitchen? Check out our blog this month!
Dead Sea Mud Cleansing Face Mask by Sabon Michal – Michal Levi, founder of Sabon Michal, creates amazing, natural cosmetics products that will keep you (and your skin) feeling connected to the essence of Israeli products. Dating back to 2007, Sabon Michal is a small family business that has developed a name for exceptional quality here in Israel. This face mask features mud straight from the Dead Sea. Just close your eyes, lie back, and pretend you’re floating in the sea…
Ein Gedi Nourishing Fennel Seed- Carob Herbal Tea by Shalva Tea- David Ross, founder of ShalvaTea, fell in love with Israel when doing his Masters in Forestry at Yale, and eventually made Aliyah after studying the Carmel Forest fires of 2010. He collected herbs to connect to the land of Israel which eventually led to the birth of Shalva, meaning peace, calm and tranquility. That’s what Shalva is all about. Made from pure Israeli herbs, each sip is filled with the feeling “shalva”. This mix features cactus flower, sage, and dandelion green together with fennel (straight from Ein Gedi near the Dead Sea) giving you a unique and delicious blend.
In this box, we’re bringing you the best of the land of milk and honey while celebrating the beginning of a new year.
Shana Tova u’metukah – Have a good and sweet new year!
What’s inside your Rosh Hashana Box?
Honey Cream with Apples and Cinnamon by Tzuf
This honey cream with apples and cinnamon is created through a unique process that turns the honey into a delicate cream with an amazing texture that is airy and soft. It’s perfect to add to crackers or bread, to use in baking or as a drink!
Shabbat Candles by Simon Bees
These candles are made of beeswax, the perfect way to the spirit of Rosh Hashana to your holiday table (and they are a gorgeous decoration!).
Olive Oil by Anshei Hazait
This high-quality Israeli olive oil is cold pressed with a slightly dominant flavor and slight bitterness. You’ll love it!
Pomegranate earrings by Hila Assa
These earrings, coated in 24k gold, feature a pomegranate in a design created specifically for Israelibox. There’s no better way to dress up for your Rosh Hashana meal or services.
Hanging Paper Mache Pomegranates by Yad LaKashish (Social Product)
These pomegranates (in a range of colors) will decorate your home with the special meaning behind our Cause of the Month.