The Middle East’s incredible diversity of cultures yields a vast array of delectable cuisines.
While attempting to distill the diverse and complex culinary heritage of the Middle East into a mere ten items may seem audacious, it’s a challenge worth taking on. While many global cuisines naturally lend themselves to plant-based options, it’s indeed a thoughtful gesture to adapt classic recipes for greater inclusivity.
Here are ten OGP recipes that draw inspiration from the captivating culinary traditions of the Middle East.
In this mouth-watering recipe, Adam Merrin and Ryan Alvarez bring together the flavors of Turkey and Middle Eastern cuisine to create a game-changing vegetarian option.
Source: Grilled Cauliflower Doner Wraps
Indulge in the vibrant fusion of flavors with these show-stopping Grilled Cauliflower Doner Wraps, crafted by culinary masters Adam Merrin and Ryan Alvarez. With their simplicity to create and speed of construction, these versatile pieces are ideal for hosting memorable summer gatherings. Thick slices of cauliflower, dubbed “steaks,” receive a flavorful makeover when brushed with a rich Turkish-inspired marinade, a bold condiment infused with the aromatic essence of garlic, ripe tomatoes, earthy cumin, and a medley of spices from the storied markets of the Middle East.
Source: Authentic Chickpea Falafel
Freshly baked, light, and airy, infused with a fragrant bouquet of herbs.
A Culinary Masterpiece: The Ultimate Chickpea Falafel Recipe A nutrient-rich food, high in protein, fibre, and boasting a guarantee of being 100% gluten-free. Fried vegetarian falafels are commonly paired with creamy hummus, nutty tahini sauce, and warm pita bread for a satisfying snack or meal. This recipe for Authentic Chickpea Falafel by Jamie Raftery is a hit when paired with Zhoug, a piquant Syrian herb sauce that adds an extra layer of flavour.
What’s for dinner? Try this hearty Mujadara recipe!
This beloved Middle Eastern dish is a simple yet flavorful combination of lentils and rice, topped with crispy onions that add a satisfying crunch. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion, Mujadara is sure to become a family favorite.
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This classic Lebanese dish, widely recognized as Mujadara, is a hearty combination of tender lentils, flavorful rice, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory from its signature crispy golden onions. A classic dish elevated! This hearty Mujadara: A Rich Tapestry of Flavors, Textures Unfolds in a Simmering Pot of Lentils and Fragrant Rice, Topped with the Crunchy Harmony of Crispy Onions, delivering both taste and wellness.
Source: Buckwheat and Avocado Tabbouleh
A flavorful twist on a classic! Traditionally, tabbouleh is a refreshing salad consisting of bulgur, juicy tomatoes, pungent onions, an abundance of parsley, and a hint of fresh mint, with the option to add some crisp lettuce for an extra nutritional boost.
Rita Marie’s innovative take on traditional tabbouleh recipe diverges from the norm by incorporating creamy avocado, refreshing cucumber, nutty chia, and crunchy flax seeds, while cleverly substituting buckwheat for traditional bulgur. This recipe pays homage to traditional tabbouleh by incorporating its signature blend of fresh, vibrant flavors, yet elevates the dish further by including an abundance of nutritious leafy greens.
Source: Hummus with Macadamia Dukkah
In the Middle East, hummus is primarily recognized as a popular appetizer or dip. Here is the rewritten text:
Judy Moosmueller’s innovative take on hummus, Hummus with Macadamia Dukkah, combines the creamy classic with the native Australian macadamia nuts and the rich, aromatic flavors of dukkah, a quintessential Middle Eastern condiment. This avocado toast tastes beautifully rich and creamy, adding an indulgent layer of nutritious extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of crispy red pepper flakes for added zest.
Source: Tofu Shawarma
Melissa Tedesco’s vegan Tofu Shawarma masterfully captures the authentic Middle Eastern flavours of traditional shawarma, complete with a remarkably similar appearance. Why not simply substitute the meat with tofu instead?
Source: Sabich Spaghetti Squash
This delectable Sabich Spaghetti Squash, inspired by the iconic Israeli dish, combines the flavors of eggplant, spaghetti squash, rich tomato sauce, and tender beans to create a culinary masterpiece that reimagines the original sabich’s signature elements: salad, egg, and eggplant. This nutritious vegan meal is incredibly satisfying, effortlessly prepared, and completely free of animal products. Here’s a nutritious meal option that’s free from artificial additives and packed with vitamins and minerals:
**Moutabal: A Taste of the Middle East**
By Adam Merrin and Ryan Alvarez
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Source: Moutabal (Middle-Eastern Eggplant Dip)
The Moutabal (Middle-Eastern Eggplant Dip) is a delightful creation by Adam Merrin and Ryan Alvarez, which makes for an enjoyable culinary experience. The process involves roasting an entire eggplant directly on the stovetop flame, allowing it to become charred, blistered, and blackened, yielding an inimitable smoky flavor and velvety texture that is simply irresistible. With its zesty lemon juice, pungent garlic, fragrant parsley, rich tahini, and subtle cumin and cayenne pepper notes, this vibrant dip delivers a bold, harmonious blend of flavors that pairs exquisitely with crispy warm pita at your next gathering or social affair. Discovering the rich flavors of the Middle East: Moutabal, a revered Levantine delicacy.
Would you like to try?
What’s for dinner tonight? How about a hearty and flavorful Iranian-style eggplant and chickpea stew? This aromatic dish is made with tender eggplant, creamy chickpeas, and a blend of warm spices. Let the rich flavors transport you to the bustling streets of Tehran!
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Here’s a recipe that will transport your taste buds to Iran: Iranian Eggplant and Chickpea Stew.
This aromatic and rich Iranian eggplant stew is a culinary delight that will tantalize your taste buds with its hearty texture and bold spice flavors. Here’s a deliciously aromatic Iranian-inspired stew to delight your senses: This hearty eggplant and chickpea dish, courtesy of Danielle Joy, makes for an unforgettable festive feast that nourishes both body and soul. This aromatic dish boasts an irresistible medley of sweet and warm spices, including succulent dates, luscious apricots, earthy cumin, comforting cinnamon, warm nutmeg, and invigorating turmeric, truly a culinary masterpiece that will leave you spellbound. The mere thought of this delectable Iranian eggplant stew is enough to put a warm smile on your face.
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Source: Silken Tofu Shakshuka
Shakshuka’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to captivate palates; this delectable breakfast recipe has garnered widespread acclaim, yet those privy to the culinary traditions of North Africa and the Middle East will readily recognize its bold, nuanced flavors.
Get a genuine, egg-free shakshuka experience by substituting eggs with seasoned silken tofu, typically topping it off. This delectable Silken Tofu Shakshuka, courtesy of culinary expert Laura Hemmington, presents a straightforward yet satisfying one-pan meal that pairs magnificently with crusty bread, ideal for mopping up every last drop of rich, savory tomato sauce.
Sustainable Living Simplified: Effortless Eco-Friendly Habits
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