Joanna James
Discover the Flavours of the Middle East Like Never Before!
When you're craving Middle Eastern dishes, falafel and hummus are likely the first things that come to mind. However, the region’s culinary traditions go far beyond these popular favourites. From fragrant stews to rich desserts, the Middle East offers a diverse range of flavours that are sure to delight your taste buds. Here are six must-try Middle Eastern dishes that showcase the diversity and depth of this cuisine.
A feast-worthy dish, Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian meal featuring tender lamb cooked in a tangy yoghurt sauce, served over rice, and topped with nuts and flatbread. The key ingredient, jameed (fermented dried yoghurt), gives this dish its distinct flavour. It’s a dish deeply tied to Jordanian hospitality and is often served during celebrations.
If you love carbs, Koshari is your dream dish. A delightful mix of lentils, rice, pasta, and chickpeas, topped with a spiced tomato sauce, crispy onions, and a dash of vinegar, Koshari is Egypt’s beloved street food. It’s a satisfying vegetarian meal packed with bold, tangy, and savoury flavours that make it a must-try for food lovers.
Seafood plays a big role in Gulf cuisine, and Samak Mashwi is one of the best ways to enjoy it. This dish features freshly grilled fish seasoned with a blend of Arabic spices, including sumac, coriander, and cumin. The smoky, charred flavours pair perfectly with saffron-infused rice and a side of tahini sauce. It’s a staple in coastal areas like the UAE, Bahrain, and Oman.
A hidden gem of Levantine cuisine, Shish Barak is a dish of tiny meat-filled dumplings cooked in a creamy yoghurt sauce and infused with garlic, mint, and spices. This comforting meal is often made from scratch at home; such dishes be enjoyed at many restaurants in the Middle East.
A Persian classic, Fesenjan is a rich and aromatic stew made with slow-cooked chicken or duck in a luscious sauce of pomegranate molasses and ground walnuts. The dish perfectly balances sweet and savoury notes, making it a favourite during festive gatherings in Iran. Served over saffron rice, it’s a flavour-packed dish that’s truly unique.
No Middle Eastern food journey is complete without dessert, and Kunafa is one of the most indulgent treats. This iconic pastry is made with shredded phyllo dough, layered with creamy cheese or semolina filling, and soaked in fragrant sugar syrup. A sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether enjoyed with Arabic coffee or as a post-dinner delight, Kunafa is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Middle Eastern cuisine is full of surprises, offering an incredible variety of dishes beyond the usual falafel and hummus. Next time you’re craving something different, dive into these rich, flavourful recipes—whether by making them at home or indulging in an authentic dining experience at an authentic restaurant in Downtown Dubai like Spice Spoons by Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel. Your taste buds will thank you!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
