When hosting gatherings, the food you serve is of the utmost importance. Depending on the nature of the gathering, you might be looking to serve something that’s rich in history, culture, and tradition. Foods such as these have captivated palates globally, and Middle Eastern food, in particular, is characterized by its use of fragrant spices, fresh ingredients, and age-old cooking techniques that have gone from generation to generation.
People can sometimes be surprised to learn that so many famous dishes come from the Middle East. This is due to the fact that there’s a lot of poverty in the Middle East, which causes us to hear a lot about Gaza food aid and other charitable appeals to combat hunger in the region. As a result, individuals are often led to believe that the Middle East isn’t home to delicious recipes, but the following blog post is sure to prove this wrong.
Hummus
No Middle Eastern cuisine is complete without mentioning hummus. It’s a creamy and flavorful dip that’s made from blended chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It goes without saying that hummus is a staple in a number of Middle Eastern households, as it’s not just delicious but also highly nutritious and packed full of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Traditionally, hummus is served with pit bread; however, it also pairs well with grilled meat and vegetables.
Falafel
Falafel are deep-fried balls or patties that are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. They’re another Middle Eastern favorite, and they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Generally speaking, falafel is served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. Not only is it popular in the Middle East, but it has also become a beloved street food globally.
Shawarma
Shawarma is another popular street food that’s served throughout the Middle East. Usually, it consists of marinated meat (such as chicken, lamb, or beef), which is slow cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is then shaved off and served in a wrap or pita bread with different toppings, including tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, tahini, or garlic sauce. With a combination of tender and flavorful meat and fresh and crunchy vegetables, it’s safe to say that everyone should try shawarma.
Tabbouleh
Finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, onions, and soaked bulgur wheat tossed in a light dressing of lemon juice and olive oil create the refreshing and healthy salad that’s called tabbouleh. It’s the perfect side dish to grilled meats, or it can even be a light meal on its own. Quite simply, the dish showcases the fresh and vibrant flavors of the Middle East.
Mansaf
Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish that’s usually served at celebrations and on special occasions. It’s lamb that’s cooked in a sauce made from jameed, which is a type of dried yogurt, and it’s usually served over a bed of rice or bulgur and topped with toasted almonds and pine nuts. Mansaf is perceived as a symbol of hospitality and is typically eaten with the hands.
Baklava
Baklava is a sweet and flaky pastry that’s made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts (usually pistachios or walnuts) and sweetened with syrup or honey. This is a popular dessert throughout the Middle East, and it’s the perfect ending to any meal. With a combination of crunchy pastry, rich nuts, and sticky sweetness, baklava is truly an irresistible treat.
Kebabs
Kebabs are skewered and grilled meats and come in the form of lamb, chicken, and beef. They’re typically marinated in a mixture of spices, yogurt and lemon juice before they’re grilled, and tend to be served with rice and salad, or they’re wrapped in flatbread.