9 Flavorful Middle Eastern Recipes You Need to try
Middle Eastern cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, each dish offering a peek into the region’s rich cultural tapestry and historical depth. Renowned for its diverse ingredients and bold spices, Middle Eastern food is not just nourishing for the body but also for the soul. \
Whether you’re a culinary expert or a novice in the kitchen, these Middle Eastern recipes are must-tries for anyone looking to expand their cooking repertoire. Each recipe selected for this article showcases simple steps and accessible ingredients, making the exotic cuisines of the Middle East a feasible adventure for your daily meals.
Let’s embark on this flavorful journey, starting with some iconic dishes that have won hearts worldwide.
1. Hummus
Hummus is more than just a dip—it’s a global phenomenon originating from the Middle East. This creamy, savory spread is made primarily from chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, and garlic. Making hummus at home is incredibly simple and rewarding.
Start by blending cooked chickpeas until smooth, then add tahini, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a couple of garlic cloves. For a smoother texture, add some of the water used to cook the chickpeas. Blend until creamy. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika. Hummus is versatile—enjoy it as a dip with fresh vegetables, spread on bread, or as a complement to grilled meats and vegetables.
2. Labneh
Labneh is a creamy, tangy yogurt cheese that has become a staple in Middle Eastern kitchens. It’s incredibly easy to make and can be adapted to suit your taste. This labneh recipe calls for full-fat Greek yogurt which is then mixed with a pinch of salt. Spread the yogurt onto a cheesecloth or thin kitchen towel placed over a strainer, then let it drain over a bowl in the fridge.
After 24 hours, you’ll have a delicious dip consistency. If you prefer it thicker, akin to cheese, let it strain for 48 hours. You can enhance labneh by adding lemon zest, minced garlic, fresh herbs, or ground pepper. This delightful dish can be served as part of a mezze platter, used as a spread for sandwiches, or even transformed into a dessert with a drizzle of honey and fresh fruit.
3. Falafel
Falafel, the ever-popular Middle Eastern street food, is both satisfying and wholesome. These deep-fried balls are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans seasoned with herbs like cilantro and parsley, along with spices such as cumin and coriander.
The key to great falafel is to use soaked, uncooked chickpeas, which are then ground to a coarse paste, shaped into small balls or patties, and fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior. Serve falafel in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce for a classic experience.
4. Shawarma
Shawarma is a marinated meat delicacy that’s been savored across the Middle East for generations. Typically made with chicken, beef, or lamb, the meat is marinated in a mixture of garlic, cumin, paprika, and other spices, then roasted on a slowly-turning vertical spit.
For home cooks, shawarma can be prepared in the oven or on a grill. Slice the marinated meat thinly and cook until crispy on the edges. Serve wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables. The spices and slow cooking process meld to create a mouthwatering aroma and a burst of flavors that are unmistakably Middle Eastern.
5. Kibbeh
Kibbeh is one of the most iconic dishes of the Middle East, known for its distinctive football shape and savory filling. This dish consists of a shell made from a mixture of finely ground lean meat, bulgur wheat, and Middle Eastern spices, which is then stuffed with cooked minced meat, onions, and pine nuts.
To prepare kibbeh, combine the shell ingredients into a dough-like consistency, then mold them around the stuffing into oval shapes. These can either be fried for a crispy exterior or baked for a healthier version. Kibbeh can be served as an appetizer or main dish, often accompanied by yogurt or tahini sauce for dipping.
6. Fattoush
Fattoush is a lively, colorful salad that makes use of the fresh vegetables and herbs available in any season. It includes mixed greens, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and pieces of toasted or fried pita bread, which add a delightful crunch.
The dressing is a light mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac, which gives the salad a tangy flavor. Fattoush is perfect as a side dish for heavier meals or as a standalone meal during warm weather. Its freshness and simplicity showcase the Middle Eastern knack for turning simple ingredients into a feast for the senses.
7. Baklava
Baklava is made by layering sheets of phyllo dough with a filling of chopped walnuts or pistachios and sweetened with syrup or honey.
The key to perfect baklava lies in the careful buttering of the phyllo layers, which are then baked to golden perfection before being generously soaked in honey or sugar syrup. The result is a decadently sticky, sweet, and crunchy dessert that is traditionally enjoyed during celebrations and festive occasions.
8. Mansaf
Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan and a revered dish in Palestinian cuisine, often prepared for special occasions and gatherings. It features lamb cooked in a sauce made from jameed—a unique fermented dried yogurt—served over a bed of rice or flatbread.
The lamb is typically seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, enhancing its flavor. Mansaf is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural symbol, often eaten communally as a sign of hospitality and generosity. It embodies the communal dining experience that is central to Middle Eastern culture.
9. Muhammara
Muhammara is a vibrant red pepper dip that originates from Aleppo, Syria, but has become popular throughout the Middle East. It’s made from a blend of roasted red peppers, ground walnuts, breadcrumbs, and pomegranate molasses, which contribute a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Garlic, lemon juice, and chili flakes are added to enhance its richness and spice. Muhammara can be served as a dip with bread, as a spread for sandwiches, or alongside grilled meats and vegetables. Its complex flavors make it a versatile and beloved part of the Middle Eastern mezze.
Conclusion
Exploring Middle Eastern cuisine reveals a world of flavors that reflect the rich histories, cultures, and traditions of the region. From the creamy and tangy taste of labneh to the sweet layers of baklava, each recipe offers a unique insight into the culinary expertise of the Middle East.
These dishes are not only a delight to the taste buds but also provide a window into the communal and celebratory spirit of Middle Eastern dining. By trying these flavorful recipes, you not only expand your cooking repertoire but also partake in a cultural journey that spans centuries.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or looking for new meals to spice up your family dinners, these Middle Eastern recipes promise to bring joy and a taste of adventure to your table.
