Check out my collection of 10 classic Middle Eastern Dishes Everyone Should Try Once if you like cozy, home-cooked meals with warm spices and fresh herbs. You’ll come across things like grilled meats, simple stews, rice dishes, fresh salads, and breads, all made with ingredients that are easy to work with. The flavours are full and balanced, and most recipes are straightforward to prepare without needing any special equipment or tricky techniques.
Kibbeh
Icli Kofte (some call it Bulgur Kofte) is the Turkish version of the famous Middle Eastern dish called "Kibbeh".
They are made with a combination of ground meat, fine bulgur wheat, and Middle Eastern spices. These savory treats are usually shaped like a football and can be fried, boiled, or baked.
To learn more: Icli Kofte (Turkish Kibbeh)
Baklava
This Authentic Middle Eastern Walnut Baklawa is a scrumptious creation that beautifully combines layers of filo pastry with the richness of walnuts and a sweet simple syrup.
But what truly makes this recipe special is the love and artisanship that goes into creating each delicate layer of hand-rolled phyllo sheets.
To learn more: Authentic Middle Eastern Walnut Baklawa
Falafel
This Authentic Homemade Lebanese Falafel Recipe is perfect for you if you want to learn how to make perfectly crisp and extremely flavourful falafels.
This delicious Middle Eastern dish is very easy to make and is especially popular among vegetarians and vegans. They are inexpensive, freezer-friendly, and perfect for meal planning.
To learn more: Authentic Homemade Lebanese Falafel Recipe
Check out the healthier air fryer version: Air Fryer Falafel Recipe
Stuffed Grape Leaves
Yaprak Sarma (or Yalanci Dolma) is an authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dish made from grape leaves stuffed with aromatic rice, fresh Mediterranean herbs, and spices.
You can serve these delicious bite-sized appetizers as a part of a mezze platter or warm as a main meal.
To learn more: Yaprak Sarma - Stuffed Grape Leaves
Chicken Shish Kebab
Turkish Chicken Shish Kebab, also known as Tavuk Sis, is a popular Turkish dish made of chicken pieces marinated in olive oil, milk, tomato & pepper paste, and aromatic spices.
These tender and juicy kebabs are ready in just 25 minutes plus the marinating time.
To learn more: Turkish Chicken Shish Kebab
Check out air fryer version: Air Fryer Chicken Skewers – Shish Kebabs
Tabbouleh
This Taboule Recipe (Lebanese Tabouli Salad) is a refreshing and healthy Middle Eastern salad made with fresh parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur.
It is full of flavor, color, and nutrition and is extremely easy to make with just a handful of ingredients.
To learn more: Taboule (Lebanese Tabouli Salad)
Lahmacun
Homemade Turkish Lahmacun (or Lahmajun-Lahmajoun) is a super-thin crispy flatbread topped with minced beef or lamb mixed with vegetables, herbs, and spices.
You can find this popular street / fast food everywhere in Turkey, in restaurants, cafes, and fast-food shops.
To learn more: Turkish Lahmacun
Lamb Kofta
Grilled Lamb Kofta is one of the most popular street foods in Middle East made with minced lamb and aromatic spices such as coriander and paprika.
It is extremely easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills.
To learn more: Turkish Grilled Lamb Kofta - Izgara Kofte
Hummus
Hummus Dip is a Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern spread made with chickpeas and tahini, then seasoned with lemon, garlic, and cumin.
This extremely creamy, smooth & fresh dip comes together in just 25 minutes!
To learn more: Mediterranean Hummus Dip
Lamb Shish Kebab
Lamb Shish Kebab (or Shish Kabob) is a very popular Turkish / Middle Eastern dish typically served in restaurants or takeaway kebab shops.
This simple recipe explains how to make your homemade version of this lamb kebabs from scratch with a few ingredients.
To learn more: Lamb Shish Kebab
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