Annual Couscous Festival in Alma Celebrates Libyan-Jewish Culinary Heritage
The unique Couscous Festival in the moshav Alma, founded by Libyan immigrants in the 1950s, will take place on August 4 starting at 5 p.m., with free public admission. Originally a local initiative by young residents about five years ago, the event has expanded this year with support from the Merom HaGalil Regional Council and is part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of the "Between the Vineyards" festival.
The festival features 10 food stalls run by local women who bring traditional family recipes and cooking utensils from home. Visitors can sample a variety of couscous styles and sauces, including olive oil-based couscous and the traditional "bqila" sauce made from slow-cooked beet greens, accompanied by spicy "anshir" salad. Additional attractions include sweet stalls, local fruit, children's activities, and a traditional Tripolitanian tea stand with peanuts, alongside a reenactment of a Tripolitanian henna ceremony with traditional costumes.
For Alma residents, couscous is central to family life, served regularly on Tuesdays and Fridays and during celebrations such as weddings and baby naming ceremonies. In preparation, local women have shared family stories and photos honoring the founders. Merom HaGalil Regional Council head Amit Sofer, a grandson of the community’s founding leader Rabbi Chamos Sofer, expressed pride in promoting the rich Libyan culture and cuisine of Alma, emphasizing the region’s commitment to celebrating its diverse populations.
Among the participants are longtime residents Yael and Amos Kalfa, married for 32 years. Amos manages the moshav’s agricultural operations, while Yael, originally from a Tunisian family in Safed, has become an expert in Tripolitanian cuisine. She highlighted the richness of Tripolitanian dishes compared to Tunisian couscous, noting the variety of meats and side dishes that complete the meal. Amos likened the friendly competition among cooks to choosing the best kebab in Turkey, saying the true victory is the community and family gathering around the table.
The festival promises a rich cultural and culinary experience celebrating Alma’s heritage and community spirit.
