Get ready to taste the vibrant flavors of the Middle East! With its rich history, cultural diversity, and abundance of fresh ingredients, this region has given rise to a plethora of mouth-watering dishes that are sure to delight. As a beginner, it can be intimidating to venture into the world of Middle Eastern cuisine, but fear not – we’ve got you covered!
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that showcase the best of what the Middle East has to offer. From classic dips like hummus and baba ganoush, to flavorful salads and hearty stews, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to spice up your meal routine or simply want to explore a new cuisine, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to get you started.
So, let’s embark on this gastronomic adventure and discover the flavors of the Middle East!
Hummus with Tahini and Lemon
This classic Middle Eastern dip is a staple for any gathering. With the addition of tahini and lemon, this hummus recipe adds a rich and tangy twist to the traditional favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and water.
4. Continue blending until the hummus is creamy and well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Falafel with Yogurt Sauce
This popular street food from the Middle East is a flavorful and nutritious treat that’s easy to make at home. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and served with a creamy yogurt sauce, this falafel recipe is a perfect snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Yogurt Sauce: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak chickpeas overnight and blend with remaining ingredients until coarse.
2. Shape into patties or balls.
3. Fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Drain excess oil and serve with Yogurt Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tabbouleh Salad with Fresh Herbs
This classic Lebanese salad combines fresh herbs with bulgur and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fine bulgur
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bulgur according to package instructions. Let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine parsley, mint, scallions, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour dressing over the herb mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked bulgur and toss gently to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Shakshuka with Feta and Parsley
This recipe adds a tangy and refreshing touch to the traditional Shakshuka by incorporating crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley. Perfect for a quick and satisfying brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can of crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 eggs
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or omelette pan, sauté the onion and bell peppers over medium heat until tender.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Create 6 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese and parsley on top. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baba Ganoush with Smoky Eggplant
This recipe elevates the classic Middle Eastern dip by incorporating smoky eggplant, adding depth and complexity to the traditional roasted garlic and tahini flavors. Perfect for snacking or as a accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: paprika or smoked paprika for added smokiness
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired paprika.
4. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes, or until they collapse and release their juices.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
6. Scoop out the flesh and blend with garlic, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the Baba Ganoush.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Lentil Soup with Cumin and Lemon
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of earthy lentils, aromatic cumin, and bright citrus notes from lemon. Enjoy it as a warming meal or as a nourishing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce
This popular street food from the Middle East is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on-the-go. By marinating chicken in a blend of spices and grilling it to perfection, you’ll get a taste sensation like no other.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Garlic Sauce (recipe below)
Garlic Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
5. Assemble shawarma by slicing chicken into thin strips and serving on warmed pita with Garlic Sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fattoush Salad with Pita Chips
This Middle Eastern-inspired salad combines crunchy pita chips with a flavorful mix of vegetables, herbs, and tangy dressing. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pita chips, crushed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and pita chips.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Stuffed Grape Leaves with Rice and Herbs
This classic Middle Eastern dish, also known as dolmas, is a flavorful and nutritious appetizer or snack. Fresh grape leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of rice, herbs, and spices create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 fresh grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon juice, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, mint, scallions, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Lay a grape leaf flat with the stem end facing you. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
3. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
4. Cook stuffed grape leaves in boiling water for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki
This classic Mediterranean dish combines the flavors of juicy lamb koftas with a refreshing and tangy tzatziki sauce, perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients:
For the Lamb Koftas:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine lamb, onion, garlic, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 koftas. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Stir to combine.
5. Serve koftas with tzatziki sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pita Bread with Za’atar and Olive Oil
A classic Middle Eastern combination, this pita bread is infused with the earthy flavor of za’atar and richness of olive oil. Perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 tablespoons warm water
– 1 tablespoon za’atar
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down dough and shape into 2-3 pita breads.
7. Brush each pita with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Turkish Lentil and Bulgur Pilaf
Turkish Lentil and Bulgur Pilaf Recipe
=====================================
This hearty pilaf is a staple of Turkish cuisine, made with red lentils, bulgur, and aromatic spices. A comforting and nutritious dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
————
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
————–
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the lentils, bulgur, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time:
————-
– 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Feta Borek
This recipe combines the sweetness of spinach with the tanginess of feta cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry package. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough and brush with olive oil.
5. Spoon the spinach mixture onto the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the 1-inch borders over the filling to form a triangle or rectangle shape.
7. Brush the top with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Kebab with Sumac Onions
This recipe combines the richness of beef kebabs with the tangy, slightly sweet flavor of sumac onions. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a show-stopping appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef cubes (chuck or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced into rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– 4 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Thread the beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the onions with olive oil and sprinkle with sumac powder. Grill the onions until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time is approximately 20-25 minutes.
Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Drizzle
Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini Drizzle: A deliciously healthy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Optional: paprika, cumin, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt.
5. Remove cauliflower from the oven and drizzle with the tahini mixture.
6. Garnish with paprika, cumin, or other spices if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad is a staple in Iranian cuisine, perfect for hot summer days when you need a light and flavorful meal. With its simplicity and vibrant colors, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, tomato cubes, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss gently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad!
Eggplant and Chickpea Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is a perfect blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, featuring tender eggplant and chickpeas in a rich and aromatic tomato-based sauce. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, eggplant, and chickpeas. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the eggplant is tender.
3. Stir in the tomato puree, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Date and Nut Stuffed Phyllo Rolls
These tender phyllo rolls are filled with a delicious mixture of dates, nuts, and spices, making them the perfect sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped dates
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing phyllo)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped dates, almonds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Lay out a sheet of phyllo dough and brush with beaten egg.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the date mixture onto the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
5. Fold the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or roll shape, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and phyllo sheets.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yogurt and Cucumber Dip with Mint
This light and creamy dip is perfect for hot summer days or as a cool snack any time of the year. With the combination of tangy yogurt, refreshing cucumber, and invigorating mint, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt to taste
– Optional: paprika or garlic powder for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, and mint.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Add salt to taste; you can also add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder if desired.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve chilled with pita chips, vegetables, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve!
Spiced Rice with Raisins and Almonds
This flavorful side dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of saffron-infused rice, sweet raisins, and crunchy almonds will transport your taste buds to a warm and cozy place.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add rice, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add water and soaked saffron threads. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in raisins and almonds. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of the Middle East with these 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like hummus, tabbouleh salad, and shakshuka to flavorful meats and sides like lamb kofta, chicken shawarma, and Turkish lentil pilaf, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy baba ganoush or refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of the Middle East.
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