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Middle Eastern foods is 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 foods 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.
Hummus—The Universal Favorite | Middle Eastern foods
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. It appears in many cuisines and is a staple in many households. Hummus 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 slowly roasted inside a vertical spit. Shawarma is served at your convenience either as a sandwich or wrap coated with garlic sauce and tahini and garnished with greenery. In shawarma, the flavor is incredibly soft and has the smokiness of flavors.
Tabbouleh—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. Tabbouleh is a refreshing side dish that complements grilled meats and main courses perfectly.
Baba Ganoush—The Smoky Eggplant Dip
Baba ganoush is another Middle Eastern foods that is smoky and creamy in texture. It is made out of pureed eggplant cooked with garlic and lemon juice, combined with a creamy consistency of tahini. This dip matches wonderfully well with fresh pita bread 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 | Sfeeha, savory meat pies | Koshari, Egypt’s beloved street food | Lahmacun, Turkish-style flatbread with minced meat | Fesenjan, a rich Persian stew with pomegranate and walnuts |
| Labneh, a creamy strained yogurt | Kanafeh, a sweet cheese pastry | Harira, a hearty Moroccan soup | Bamya, a flavorful okra stew | Mandi, fragrant rice and meat |
| Mujadara, a comforting dish of lentils and rice | Sambousek, flaky stuffed pastries | Mutabbaq, a stuffed pastry often filled with meat or cheese | Maamoul, date- or nut-filled cookies | Freekeh, a smoked green wheat dish |
| Makloubeh, a layered rice and meat casserole | Kofta, spiced meat skewers | Shakshuka, eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce | Arayes, grilled meat-stuffed pita | Qatayef, a sweet stuffed pancake often enjoyed during Ramadan |
FAQs | Top Middle Eastern foods
What are some popular Middle Eastern foods?
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.
