The article provides recipes for classic Middle Eastern dishes from Lebanon, Iran, and other countries, explaining the ingredients required to authentically replicate the flavors. The article shares three recipes, including falafel made from chickpeas and spices, Iranian kebabs made from lamb or beef skewers, and Lebanese moussaka made from eggplant and ground beef. Each of these dishes is presented step-by-step with ingredients and instructions on how to create them. The article concludes by encouraging readers to experiment with different Middle Eastern recipes and explore the unique flavors and spices that the cuisine has to offer.

A Taste of the Middle East: Classic Dishes From Lebanon, Iran, and More

Introduction

Middle Eastern cuisine has gained popularity all around the world due to its exotic flavors and unique spices. In this article, we will be sharing recipes for classic dishes from Lebanon, Iran, and more. Each of these dishes has been carefully curated to represent the authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisines.

Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, you will need to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here are some of the staples in Middle Eastern cooking that you should stock up on:

• Chickpeas
• Bulgur
• Sumac
• Pomegranate molasses
• Tahini
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Cinnamon sticks
• Cardamom
• Saffron
• Flatbread
• Olives
• Parsley
• Mint
• Lemon
• Garlic
• Onions
• Tomatoes
• Eggplants
• Lamb
• Chickens
• Beef
• Feta cheese

Recipes

1. Falafel

Falafel is a classic street food dish in the Middle East. It is made of ground chickpeas, onions, and a blend of spices, which are formed into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. Here is how you can make falafel at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of dried chickpeas
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon of cumin
• 1 tablespoon of coriander
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/4 cup of chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Soak the chickpeas in cold water overnight.
2. Drain the chickpeas and add them to a food processor with the onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and baking soda.
3. Pulse the mixture until it is well combined and has a thick consistency.
4. Add the chopped parsley to the mixture and pulse again until the parsley is well combined.
5. Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a tray.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the balls until they are crispy and golden brown.
7. Remove the falafel from the pan with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain.

Serve the falafel with pita bread, hummus, and a salad of your choice.

2. Iranian Kebabs

Iranian kebabs are delicious meat skewers seasoned with a blend of spices and grilled to perfection. Here is how you can make them at home.

Ingredients

• 1 lb. of lamb or beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 onion, grated
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to high.
2. In a large bowl, combine the grated onion, minced garlic, olive oil, sumac, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the lamb or beef cubes to the bowl and toss well to coat with the marinade.
4. Thread the meat onto skewers and grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve the kebabs with grilled vegetables, rice, and a side of tzatziki sauce.

3. Lebanese Moussaka

Moussaka is a classic Middle Eastern eggplant and tomato-based dish that is full of flavor. This Lebanese version is delicious and easy to make. Here is how.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants
• 1 lb. of ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the eggplants into 1/4 inch slices. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes. Rinse well and pat them dry.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
4. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until softened.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a greased baking dish. Spoon the meat mixture over the eggplant slices.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is browned and crispy.

Serve the moussaka with a side salad and some fresh bread.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern cuisine is full of unique flavors and spices that can transport your taste buds to the streets and markets of the Middle East. With these classic recipes, you can bring a taste of Lebanon, Iran, and other Middle Eastern countries right into your home. Experiment with different recipes and enjoy the plethora of tastes that Middle Eastern cooking has to offer!