The Mysterious, but Loyal Druze: Druze Rice

June 21, 2011

Not everyone living in Israel is Jewish, however; nor did they all arrive post-1948. Most notably among such minorities are the Druze, a community of about 100,000 people with special standing among the country’s other minority groups. Many Druze have attained high-level positions in the political, public, and military spheres, and though their culture and language are Arabic, they have pledged their allegiance to Israel, serving in the Israel Defense Forces and as Border Police as well.

The Druze have traditionally lived as farmers, and the hillsides of northern Israel are dotted with quaint Druze villages where ancient traditions and lifestyle are maintained. Many still wear traditional clothing, and it is common to see Druze women dressed in the same black peasant dress, gauzy white head covering, and bright red slippers worn by their ancestors.

The clothing of Druze men is a bit more complex, however, with style revealing religious status. For the uninitiated or those who are followers and not allowed to read or interpret holy writings, baggy trousers gathered at the ankle and a common Arab keffiyeh (draped cotton headdress) are standard fare. But for the initiated, the leaders and interpreters of religious writings, a heavy white turban or knit white cap is required. Most Druze men shave their heads and sport large moustaches with waxed tips.

The Druze religion is a mysterious blend of Islamic monotheism with Greek philosophy, seasoned with some Hindu influence as well. Although it was born in 996 AD, it has been completely closed to outsiders since 1050. Although the Druze recognize the three monotheistic religions, they are convinced that tradition and ritualism caused all three to go astray. They acknowledge the stories of the Bible but view them only as parables and view themselves as the keepers of truth. They live tranquil and harmonious lives among Israelis with one important caveat: revealing the deeper details of their religion to outsiders is punishable by death!

A colorful and fascinating part of the tapestry of Israeli life, the Druze are famous as weavers and carpet makers. Although their diet is primarily vegetarian, meat dishes like the one on this page are well-loved and a part of every family festival.

By Cheryl Hauer, International Development Director

Druze Rice

1 lb (500g) lamb or lamb and beef mixed
2 large onions, diced
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
2 cups (370g) long-grain Persian rice
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1 cup (250 ml) chicken broth

Fry onions in oil in a large skillet until soft but not brown. Add ground meat, stirring constantly until color changes to brown. Add 1/4 cup water and simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Stir about every 10 minutes. If dry, add a bit more water.

While meat is simmering, cook the rice according to package directions. Add rice to meat mixture, stir well. Add spices and chicken broth. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet and fry 2 tablespoons each of pine nuts and almond silvers, stirring constantly, until browned. Add to the meat and rice mixture and stir will. Serve hot.

From Simply Israel by T. Gila Levine

Photo Credit: www.israelimages.com