}
Travel Foodies

Culinary Adventures in the Middle East: Discover Flavors from Across the Region

28 Aug 2024

Though the Middle East is a large region, not many people are aware of the items or the cuisine they have to offer. It consists of a few countries large and small, offering different dishes with some common ones though with different national flavors. The dishes are meaty with different kinds of meats including mutton though pork is forbidden to be used according to Islamic laws. There are vegetables used too, whether to add flavor to the meat or for separate dishes. Some of the items can be spicy and the ingredients used are mostly from local produce. There is a lot of seafood on offer too, mostly in the cities close to the coast. As for the drinks, the local coffee, yogurt, and milk drinks are very popular.

Something unusual

Those living in European nations will have come across Middle Eastern eateries, particularly Turkish eateries where Shawarma or Doner Kebabs are served. You will have these items prepared fresh in front of you. The breads of different kinds are used with almost every meal and the reason for this is the farming of cereals in this region including wheat. At these eateries usually veg or non-veg items are served placed inside Pita bread. The cuisines of this region have evolved over the millenniums and there are new recipes in the last century. So, here we list for you what to expect when you plan a trip to the Middle East.

Enjoy the delicacies in Dubai

Dubai food

Dubai is known for its international airport and the airlines that will bring you here from almost any part of the world, at least from most major nations on all continents. The city itself is known for offering shopping opportunities for luxury items and there are plenty of restaurants offering items from the most popular cuisines on the planet. If you choose to go on a desert safari here you can expect grilled meats with bread to be served for dinner in the middle of a desert. You can also try the dates or the camel milk.

Culinary experiences in Istanbul

Turkish pizza

Istanbul has many glorious sites like the Grand Camlica Mosque. You will find eateries here serving Lahmacun which is very similar to a pizza with ingredients that you may not be used to. As for the Turkish pizza, there is the Pide with shapes that invite you to munch it quickly. The fish sandwiches and Islak Burger, the Turkish version of burgers are also popular with locals and are must-try for those coming to the cities in this nation. You will find these either as street food or at restaurants in the markets.

You will love the Lebanese items in Beirut

hummus

This city has all kinds of eateries for you depending on what you plan to spend from street food to fine dining restaurants. You should try hummus, the chickpea paste which is very popular in Europe too, often used for dipping your bread into it. You should also try out the crepes which are prepared with halva, the traditional Arabic confectionary. There are falafels too prepared from fava beans and fried, served with a dip. You will also find a variety of cheese here including feta, which is of Greek origin. As for the sweets you can try out Arabic ice cream, prepared with a very different method than what you will be used to, or sfouf a cake with turmeric flavor.

Indulge in the local cuisine in Casablanca

Kefta kebab

If you are planning a romantic dinner in a Middle Eastern setting, you should come to Casablanca in Morocco, in North Africa. You can start with a salad, like Zaâlouk, prepared with veggies from the local gardens. You will find plenty of seafood here and you can try the different kebabs like the Kefta kebab or the Shish kebab. Tajine is the most popular dish in this nation prepared with different meats and veggies, usually steamed and served fresh. You can try the local version of pastries, the Pastilla. As for the sweet dish, there is the Chebakia, which is consumed a lot in the holy month of Ramadan.

Discover Oman through its food in Muscat

Shuwa

Muscat doesn’t have just good views to offer, whether the seas or the architecture of the buildings around, but there are various eateries, too, serving according to what you can afford. There are a few meaty dishes that are served with flavored rice like the Kabsa prepared with chicken or the Shuwa prepared with lamb. You should always try the Kahwa the local coffee drink which is part of the traditional hospitality of the country. You will find grilled fish which are served as street food. If you have come so far, you can always savor the camel curry.

Conclusion

The Middle East is a world of its own and you will find flavors and tastes that you will not be used to. Every country has something unique to offer and food is an important part of the culture, allowing you a glimpse into the life of the locals. Here we have listed some destinations and dishes that will make you familiar with what you will get to enjoy to eat once you get here.

By FlightsChannel Team
Category
Featured Blog
Follow Us