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Best Middle Eastern Dishes: Discover the Top Foods

David Davidson04 mins

Discover Iconic Middle Eastern Dishes

Middle Eastern cuisine is a fusion of diverse flavors, histories, and cultures. Whether you are in the mood for savory dishes or sweet delights, there is something for everyone. Below, we explore some iconic Middle Eastern dishes, emphasizing their ingredients and cultural significance.

1. Falafel

Falafel: These deep-fried, meat-free balls have become a common international street food dish.
Falafel: These deep-fried, meat-free balls have become a common international street food dish.

Falafel is a staple in many Middle Eastern diets, made primarily from chickpeas or fava beans, and is often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.

2. Hummus

Hummus: Made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice and garlic, this is one of the most popular Middle Eastern foods -- and a topic for fierce regional rivalries.
Hummus: Made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice and garlic, this is one of the most popular Middle Eastern foods — and a topic for fierce regional rivalries.

Hummus is renowned for its creamy texture and savory flavor, making it a perfect appetizer or dip, alongside pita bread or fresh vegetables.

3. Shawarma

Shawarma: This wrap of tender shreds of skewered chicken, garlic puree and salad wrapped in pita have become a global post-session favorite.
Shawarma: This wrap of tender shreds of skewered chicken, garlic puree and salad wrapped in pita have become a global post-session favorite.

Shawarma is a popular fast food choice, consisting of seasoned meat, typically served in a wrap or sandwich with garlic sauce and vegetables.

4. Manakeesh

Manakeesh: A round bread sprinkled with either cheese, ground meat or herbs (zaatar) which is known as the pizza of the Arabic world.
Manakeesh: A round bread sprinkled with either cheese, ground meat or herbs (zaatar) which is known as the pizza of the Arabic world.

Manakeesh is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, featuring various toppings such as cheese or zaatar, a blend of herbs and spices.

5. Moutabal/Baba Ganoush

Moutabal/baba ganoush: These two Middle Eastern foods are often confused. While they are both made with eggplant, the main difference is that moutabal has tahini in it.
Moutabal/baba ganoush: These two Middle Eastern foods are often confused. While they are both made with eggplant, the main difference is that moutabal has tahini in it.

Both of these dishes are eggplant-based dips. Moutabal includes tahini, while baba ganoush does not, creating distinct yet complementary flavors perfect for dipping.

6. Baklava

Baklava: While there's much debate over its origin, there's no question that baklava's sweet combinations of honey, nuts and filo pastry have endeared it to diners across the region and beyond.
Baklava: While there’s much debate over its origin, there’s no question that baklava’s sweet combinations of honey, nuts and filo pastry have endeared it to diners across the region and beyond.

Baklava, a sweet pastry made with layers of filo dough, honey, and nuts, is a beloved dessert that is enjoyed throughout the region.

7. Knafeh

Knafeh: A delicious dessert made up of sugar-soaked cheese in a pastry crust.
Knafeh: A delicious dessert made up of sugar-soaked cheese in a pastry crust.

Knafeh is a delicious dessert, featuring a base of cheese covered in a sweet pastry, often drizzled with syrup or honey.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern cuisine offers a plethora of delightful dishes that never fail to impress. Each dish tells a story, one that encompasses tradition, flavor, and culture. Therefore, whether you are a culinary enthusiast or a casual diner, experiencing these flavors is undoubtedly a journey worth taking.


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