Chinese dishes find their way onto Palestinian food tables in Ramadan

Palestinian chef Amir al-Dali prepares Chinese dishes at a restaurant in the West Bank city of Ramallah, on April 9, 2023. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)

RAMALLAH, April 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese dishes have become a popular iftar meal choice for Palestinians during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

Amir al-Dali's restaurant, famous for its Chinese cuisine in the West Bank city of Ramallah, is crowded with customers every day during Ramadan, when Muslims would spread their tables with delicacies to break their long hours of fasting after sunset.

However, traditional Palestinian dishes are usually rich in oil, fats, and sugars, and could be detrimental to health when consumed after long hours of fasting, the 28-year-old chef told Xinhua.

"That's how Chinese food became a trend in our community as it is an excellent alternative to our fatty dishes," he added.

TikTok also contributed to the popularity of Chinese food among Palestinians, as many Chinese chefs cook their dishes out in nature and explain their health benefits, Dali said.

Palestinian chef Amir al-Dali prepares Chinese dishes at a restaurant in the West Bank city of Ramallah, on April 9, 2023. (Photo by Ayman Nobani/Xinhua)

In Dali's restaurant, Kung Pao chicken, wonton soup, spring rolls, noodles, fish, and shrimp are among the most popular Chinese dishes, according to the chef.

Maamoun al-Saied, a client of the restaurant, told Xinhua that he found the Chinese food very nutritional and balanced and provides everything your body and metabolism need.

"Some Chinese dishes are very suitable to the Palestinian tastebud, especially those characterized by spicy taste. In addition, Chinese cuisine is healthier and helps us maintain a healthy weight," the 52-year-old man said.