Middle Eastern cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and diverse textures. It encompasses dishes from countries like Turkey, Egypt, Lebanon, and Cyprus, among others. Much like Indian cuisine, Middle Eastern cooking is deeply rooted in tradition. Interestingly, many of the ingredients needed for making Middle Eastern dishes are likely already in your Indian kitchen! Surprised? From falafel to baba ganoush to labneh, you might already have everything you need to whip up these mouthwatering and authentic Middle Eastern recipes. Intrigued? Read on to learn more about this cuisine and how to bring it into your home.
Simplified: 6 Tips for Mastering Middle Eastern Cooking
1. Spices Rule the Food
Just like Indian cuisine, Middle Eastern dishes rely heavily on spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Using fresh, high-quality spices is key to enhancing the depth of flavor in your cooking.
2. Use Fresh Herbs Generously
Herbs like mint, coriander (cilantro), and parsley are essential in Middle Eastern cuisine, similar to their role in Indian dishes. They add freshness and vibrancy to the food.
3. Add a Tangy Touch
Middle Eastern recipes often feature lemon juice and sumac (a tangy spice made from dried berries) for a zesty kick, much like how Indian cuisine uses tamarind or amchur (dry mango powder).
Middle Eastern cuisine uses plenty of spices and fresh herbs. Photo: iStock
4. Balance Sweet and Savory
Middle Eastern cuisine excels in balancing sweet and savory flavors. Ingredients like honey, dried fruits, and spices come together to create dishes with perfect harmony.
5. Explore Mezze (Small Plates)
Mezze is the Middle Eastern equivalent of Indian snacks and chaats. Serve a variety of dips, pickles, and freshly baked bread for a flavorful and communal dining experience.
6. Enjoy Food Family-Style
Middle Eastern food is often prepared to be shared with family and friends, just like traditional Indian meals. Bonding over food is a wonderful way to bring people closer.
Now that you have a better understanding of Middle Eastern cuisine, here are some must-try dishes you can recreate at home.
6 Popular Middle Eastern Dishes You Must Try:
1. Falafel
Falafel is made from ground chickpeas blended with flavorful spices, then deep-fried to perfection. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it’s a delight. Click here for the recipe.
2. Baba Ganoush
This smoky dip is made with roasted eggplant, garlic, and sesame seeds. Pair it with fresh pita bread for a delicious treat. Find the full recipe here.
3. Hummus
Hummus is arguably the most popular Middle Eastern dish. Made with chickpeas, garlic, tahini, and olive oil, it’s a creamy and versatile dip. Garnish it with olive oil, whole chickpeas, parsley, and paprika. Here’s the complete recipe.
Call your friends and family for a Middle Eastern feast. Photo: iStock
4. Fattoush
Fattoush is a Lebanese salad made with toasted or fried pieces of khubz (Arabic flatbread) mixed with greens and veggies like radishes, cucumbers, and tomatoes. You can also use pita chips as croutons.
Also Read: Heard of Muhammara Dip? Enjoy This Spicy Red Pepper Dip With Pita Bread
5. Labneh
Labneh is a creamy yogurt cheese made with hung curd, olive oil, and spices. It’s a light yet satisfying dish. Click here to learn how to make it at home.
6. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a Levantine salad made with finely chopped parsley, soaked bulgur (or semolina), tomatoes, mint, and onion. It’s seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and sweet pepper. Here’s a detailed recipe.
Are you excited to try Middle Eastern cooking at home? Share your experience in the comments section below!
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