In many ways, thankfully, they have maintained their independence and their own folkways. It is possible that the aspect of Yemenite culture that has been most happily accepted is the cuisine. When the Jews of Yemen arrived in Israel they brought with them an ancient and sophisticated culinary tradition that was nearly two thousand years old. And much of what they brought has become part of the everyday fare that can now be found throughout Israel. The most representative dishes of the Jewish-Yemeni kitchen are delicious but not at all exotic and rely heavily on lamb, mutton and beef.
Honey is used frequently in cookery as are tomatoes, cucumbers and mushrooms.
Several especially tasty home-made breads are also important to this cookery. And, because this is the cuisine of a people that were not ordinarily wealthy, nearly all of the foods used are easily and inexpensively available. What makes the cuisine unique is the subtle use of herbs and spices along with a few unique but easily mastered cooking methods. Most Israeli Yemenites dine in the European fashion, but even in many of the most modern homes, meals served on special holidays continue to be served in the traditional way. At such events, diners are seated on cushions alongside of round copper tables.