Here’s how to make Mish: A centuries-old Gazan dip which is a celebration of spice and tradition

Feb 27, 2025 12:00 AM Mish is a classic Gazan dip that has been passed down through generations, serving as both, a flavorful delight and a connection to Palestinian heritage Mish is a traditional fermented yoghurt dip with deep roots in Gazan-Palestinian cuisine. Known for its bold flavours and simple ingredients, this dish is a staple in many households and is made fermenting yoghurt with salt, lemon, and chillies, resulting in a tangy, mildly spicy spread that pairs beautifully with fresh bread. Typically served as part of breakfast or as a side dish, mish is a testament to the culinary richness of Gaza, where food reflects hory, tradition, and most importantly — resourcefulness. Yoghurt dip with oil Despite the region’s small size, there is a lot of diversity within this cuisine that many are rushing to preserve; Gaza’s food is often characterized its spiciness and bold use of peppers, while dishes from the farming interior of the Gaza Strip are milder. These differences stem from the blending of various Palestinian culinary traditions, as families who settled in Gaza brought their unique flavours and techniques with them. Over time, this created a cuisine that is both deeply rooted in tradition and dinct in its own right. This particular mish recipe comes from chef Mohammed Moosa, who shares a simple yet authentic way to prepare this flavorful dip. Ingredients: 1 cubed lemon, 7 to 8 spicy chillies, roughly chopped or bruised, 800g yoghurt, 100g chaas (optional, for a thinner consency), 2 tsp pink salt, Olive oil Recipe: To prepare the dish, start cubing the lemon and roughly chopping or bruising the chillies. In a container, mix yoghurt with pink salt, stirring well to combine. Add the chillies and lemon, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the container and leave it in a cool, dry place for at least three days, though fermentation can continue for up to two weeks in colder climates. Once ready, the mish will have a slightly tangy, fermented aroma with subtle chilli-infused notes. When serving, drizzle olive oil over the dip and enjoy it with a loaf of fresh bread. The combination of creamy yoghurt, citrusy lemon, and mild spice makes for a deeply satisfying and traditional Gazan dish that celebrates the flavours of the region. Recommended Topics News / HTCity / HTCity Foodies / Here’s how to make Mish: A centuries-old Gazan dip which is a celebration of spice and tradition See Less