The Middle East is a region known for its rich culture, history, and most importantly, its delicious cuisine. With influences from various cultures such as Persian, Turkish, and Mediterranean, Middle Eastern food offers a unique blend of flavors and aromas that will surely tantalize your taste buds. In this blog post, we will take you on a culinary journey through the Middle East and explore the top 10 must-try dishes.
Hummus
We cannot talk about Middle Eastern cuisine without mentioning hummus, the famous chickpea dip that has become a staple all over the world. Made with mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, this creamy and flavorful dip is usually served with warm pita bread. It can also be enjoyed as a spread in sandwiches or as a topping for salads.
Falafel
Another popular dish that has gained worldwide recognition is falafel. These deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices are often served in pita bread with salad and tahini sauce. They are a favorite among vegetarians and are perfect for a quick and tasty snack.
Shawarma
Shawarma is a very popular street food in the Middle East, made by grilling marinated meat (usually chicken or lamb) on a rotating spit. The thinly sliced meat is then wrapped in pita bread along with vegetables, pickles, and various sauces. This flavorful and filling dish is a must-try for any meat lover.
Kebabs
Kebabs are another Middle Eastern delicacy that comes in many variations. From shish kebabs made with marinated chunks of meat to kofta kebabs made with minced meat, onions, and spices, these grilled skewers are a favorite at barbecues and gatherings. They are usually served with rice or bread and a side of salad.
Tabouleh
Tabouleh is a fresh and healthy salad that originated in Lebanon. It is made with bulgur, tomatoes, parsley, mint, onion, and lemon juice. This refreshing dish pairs well with any Middle Eastern meal and is a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a dish that has different versions throughout the Middle East, but it typically consists of ground meat (usually lamb) mixed with bulgur, onions, and spices. It can be shaped into balls or patties and either fried or baked. This savory dish is often served as an appetizer or side dish.
Maqluba
Maqluba, which translates to “upside down,” is a popular one-pot meal in the Middle East. It is made by layering meat (usually chicken or lamb), rice, and vegetables in a pot and then flipping it upside down when it’s done cooking. The result is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Kabsa
Kabsa is a traditional rice dish that is commonly served in countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The rice is usually cooked with fragrant spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, and then topped with meat (usually chicken or lamb) and vegetables. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that represents the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Mansaf
Mansaf is considered to be the national dish of Jordan, and it’s not hard to see why. This dish consists of lamb cooked in a yogurt-based sauce called “jammed” and served over rice or bread. It is usually topped with almonds, pine nuts, and parsley. Mansaf is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of Jordan.
Baklava
No Middle Eastern culinary journey would be complete without trying baklava, a sweet dessert made with layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and soaked in honey or syrup. This indulgent and delicious treat can be found in almost every Middle Eastern bakery and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
In Conclusion
Exploring the diverse and flavorful cuisine of the Middle East is an adventure in itself. With a wide variety of dishes to choose from, it’s no surprise that the region’s culinary delights have become increasingly popular around the world. When it comes to Afghani food, in particular, you won’t be disappointed.
From succulent meats to fragrant spices and flavorful rice dishes, afghani cuisine is a must-try for any food lover. So the next time you come across a Middle Eastern restaurant, don’t hesitate to try out some of these delicious dishes and enjoy the truly authentic flavors of this incredible region. Happy eating!
