Middle Eastern foods are a dynamic and rich mixture of flavors, textures, and aromas that appeal to foodies all over the world. Known for its historical richness and cultural significance, this food comes from countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Egypt, Iran, and many more.
The popularity of Middle Eastern food has gained a lot of international fame, with hummus, falafel, and shawarma becoming common food items. But with so many choices, the real question remains: What Middle Eastern dish is the best?
The answer to this question largely depends on personal preference. Middle Eastern cuisine is incredibly versatile, and each country brings its unique twist to traditional recipes.
Top Middle Eastern Foods
Below are the top most favourite Middle Eastern Foods:
Hummus—The Universal Favorite
No list of the top Middle Eastern foods is considered complete without mentioning hummus. This creamy chickpea dip, a blend of tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and more, is widely enjoyed and appears in many cuisines and is a staple in many households. It is served as a side dish, spread, or even a main course alongside pita bread and fresh vegetables.
Falafel – The Street Food King
Falafel, deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, is a beloved street food across the Middle East. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, falafel is typically served in pita bread with fresh salad, tahini sauce, and pickles. Its popularity lies in its simplicity, affordability, and bold flavors.
Shawarma – The Meat Lover’s Delight
Possibly the most popular of Middle Eastern delicacies globally is shawarma. It typically includes thinly cut marinated pieces of meat—mainly lamb or beef, along with chicken pieces.
The shavings are very slow roasted inside a vertical spit and served at your convenience either as a sandwich or wrap coated with garlic sauce, tahini, and garnished with greenery. In Shawarma, the flavor is incredibly soft and has the smokiness of flavors.
Tabouleh – The Refreshing Salad
For those who prefer lighter dishes, tabouleh is an excellent choice. This fresh salad is made from finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and soaked bulgur wheat, all dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. Tabouleh is a refreshing side dish that compliments grilled meats and main courses perfectly.
Baba Ganoush – The Smoky Eggplant Dip
Baba ganoush,One other middle eastern dish, which is smoky and creamy in texture, is made out of pureed eggplant cooked with garlic and lemon juice in a creamy consistency of tahini that matches wonderfully well with fresh pita breads and fresh vegetables; it makes people love going to eat it at gatherings and mezze platters.
Manakish—the Middle Eastern Pizza
Manakish is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread that resembles pizza. It is typically topped with za’atar (a blend of herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac), cheese, or minced meat. This versatile dish is enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a snack.
Fattoush – The Crunchy Salad
Fattoush is a Middle Eastern salad that features fresh vegetables like lettuce, cucumbers, and radishes, topped with crispy pieces of fried or toasted pita bread. The dressing, made from olive oil, lemon juice, and sumac, adds a tangy twist to this simple yet delicious salad.
Baklava – The Sweet Finale
No exploration of Middle Eastern cuisine would be complete without mentioning baklava. This sweet pastry, made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey, is a decadent treat that is enjoyed across the region. Baklava is a symbol of hospitality and celebration.
Other top Middle Eastern foods include:
- Moutabal, a smoky eggplant dip.
- Labneh, a creamy strained yogurt.
- Mujadara, a comforting dish of lentils and rice.
- Makloubeh, a layered rice and meat casserole.
- Sfeeha, savory meat pies.
- Kanafeh, a sweet cheese pastry.
- Sambousek, flaky stuffed pastries.
- Kofta, spiced meat skewers.
- Koshari, Egypt’s beloved street food.
- Harira, a hearty Moroccan soup.
- Mutabbaq, a stuffed pastry often filled with meat or cheese.
- Shakshuka, eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce.
- Lahmacun, Turkish-style flatbread with minced meat.
- Bamya, a flavorful okra stew.
- Maamoul, date- or nut-filled cookies.
- Arayes, grilled meat-stuffed pita. Fesenjan, a rich Persian stew with pomegranate and walnuts.
- Mandi, fragrant rice and meat.
- Freekeh, a smoked green wheat dish.
- Qatayef, a sweet stuffed pancake often enjoyed during Ramadan.
FAQs
What is a popular Middle Eastern food?
Popular Middle Eastern foods include hummus, falafel, shawarma, tabouleh, baba ganoush, and baklava. These dishes are widely enjoyed for their distinct flavors and cultural significance.
What is a basic Arabic food?
A basic Arabic food is often rice-based, such as kabsa or biryani, accompanied by grilled meats, flatbreads, and simple salads. Hummus, falafel, and lentil soup are also considered staple dishes in Arabic cuisine.
Is Middle Eastern food the same as Mediterranean food?
While Middle Eastern food shares similarities with Mediterranean cuisine, they are not identical. Middle Eastern cuisine tends to use more spices and features dishes like kebabs and hummus, while Mediterranean cuisine often emphasizes olive oil, seafood, and fresh vegetables. The two overlap but maintain distinct characteristics.
What are common spices used in Middle Eastern cooking?
Common spices include cumin, coriander, sumac, cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, and za’atar. These spices add depth and richness to various dishes.
Is Middle Eastern food healthy?
Yes, many Middle Eastern dishes are considered healthy. They often feature fresh vegetables, lean meats, legumes, and olive oil. However, fried foods like falafel and rich desserts like baklava should be enjoyed in moderation.
What is the main bread used in Middle Eastern cuisine?
Pita bread is the most commonly used bread in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is often served alongside dips like hummus and baba ganoush or used as a wrap for shawarma and falafel.
