What is Middle Eastern cuisine?
Middle Eastern cuisine encompasses a diverse range of culinary traditions from countries including Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Israel, Türkiye, Iraq, Iran, Egypt and the Arabian Peninsula. Each has its own specialities, but many share ingredients such as aromatic spices, fresh herbs, grains, legumes, yoghurt, tahini, olive oil and flatbreads.
What are the most popular Middle Eastern recipes?
Some of the most popular Middle Eastern dishes include hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush, fattoush, shawarma, kofta, kebabs, pilafs and mezze. My Palestinian zucchini dip is a reader favourite and a delicious place to begin.
What is mezze?
Mezze is a selection of small dishes served together for sharing. A typical mezze spread might include hummus, muhammara, baba ghanoush, labneh, salads, pickles, sauces and warm flatbread.
What ingredients are commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking?
Common ingredients include chickpeas, lentils, bulgur, freekeh, rice, aubergine, tomatoes, tahini, yoghurt, garlic, olive oil and fresh herbs. Za’atar, sumac, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cardamom and allspice bring warmth, fragrance and depth.
Is Middle Eastern food spicy?
Middle Eastern food is usually richly spiced rather than intensely hot. Aromatic seasonings create layers of flavour, while condiments such as shatta, harissa and zhoug can add as much heat as you like.
Are there vegetarian Middle Eastern recipes?
Yes—Middle Eastern cooking offers an abundance of vegetarian and vegan dishes. Hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush, fattoush, roasted vegetables, lentil dishes, pilafs and vegetable-based mezze are just a few examples.
What is a good Middle Eastern recipe for beginners?
Start with hummus, fattoush, roasted carrots with tahini or batata harra. These approachable recipes use characteristic Middle Eastern ingredients and deliver plenty of flavour without requiring complicated techniques.
What should I serve at a Middle Eastern feast?
Begin with a selection of mezze, dips, salads and warm bread. Add a fragrant rice or grain dish, grilled meat or vegetables, then complete the table with sauces such as toum, zhoug or shatta. The dishes are designed to be shared, so a varied spread works beautifully.
Are all Middle Eastern recipes the same across the region?
No. Recipes, names and preparation methods vary between countries, regions and families. There is often no single definitive version of a dish; these variations reflect the Middle East’s rich and diverse food traditions.
