Best Arabic Food – Top Dishes to Explore and Savour in 2024

As a lover of Arabic cuisine, you’re likely already aware of the rich flavours and diverse culinary traditions found in Middle Eastern cooking. This captivating cuisine boasts an array of delicious dishes, many of which are deeply rooted in the food culture and history of the Arabic world. 

As you explore the best Arabic food, you’ll discover an intriguing blend of spices and ingredients that make it a gastronomic delight.

One of the first things you’ll notice in Arabic cuisine is the widespread use of spices. Baharat, for example, is a popular blend of spices, typically including nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves. 

The use of spices like these features prominently in many dishes, enhancing the complex flavours that make Arabic food a true treat for your taste buds.

Another aspect you’ll appreciate is the presence of mezze in Arabic dining culture. Mezze refers to small dishes shared at the beginning of a meal, similar to appetizers. 

These can range from well-known favourites like hummus and tabouleh to more unique dishes like manakeesh, known as the Arabic pizza, which is a round bread topped with cheese, ground meat, or herbs such as zaatar. 

There’s a world of Arabic flavours waiting to be explored, and this culinary journey is sure to leave you craving even more delectable dishes.

Historical Significance of Arabic Food

The history of Arabic food goes back to the ancient civilisations of the Middle East, where the influences of various cultures like Sumerians, Babylonians, Phoenicians, Egyptians, and Assyrians played a crucial role in shaping the Arab kitchen. 

Over the years, trade and conquests have also significantly impacted Arabic cuisine, leading to the diverse flavours and ingredients found in the dishes today.

When exploring Arabic cuisine, you will notice that the food and culinary techniques significantly vary from one region to another. In the Maghreb (west), couscous has emerged as a dominant staple, while rice is prevalent in the Mashreq (east). 

You can also find strong influences of Greek, Israeli, and Middle Eastern elements in popular Arabic dishes like hummus.

The Arab world has played an essential part in facilitating trade and the exchange of ingredients, leading to the fusion of various cuisines from the Fertile Crescent to the Arabian Peninsula. This has resulted in a diverse and rich culinary heritage that enthusiasts like you can enjoy.

Moreover, the influence of the Ottoman Empire has also shaped the Arab kitchen, absorbing elements from Arab, Persian, and Byzantine civilisations. Consequently, each Arabic dish now carries the symbols of diverse cultures and culinary traditions that once flourished in the region.

As you indulge in Arabic cuisine, it is not just the flavours that captivate your senses, but also the remarkable history and blend of cultures that have shaped these dishes. 

The Historical Significance of Arabic Food lies in its ability to offer a gastronomical journey through time, presenting stories of the past with each bite.

Prominent Arabic Cuisine Countries

Here are the countries with more varieties!

Egypt

In Egypt, you’ll find an array of delicious dishes with unique flavours and textures. A staple food in the Egyptian diet is ful medames, made from mashed fava beans and typically served with fresh flatbread. 

Another famous Egyptian dish is kushari, a hearty mixture of rice, lentils, chickpeas, and pasta, topped with tomato sauce and fried onions. For dessert, indulge in the sweetness of basbousa, a semolina cake often soaked in syrup and topped with nuts.

Lebanon

Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its variety and richness. Start your culinary exploration by savouring mezze, a collection of small appetizers that may include hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and fattoush. 

For a more filling meal, try the national dish kibbeh, which consists of bulgur, minced onions, and finely ground meat, typically fried or baked. Wrap up your Lebanese meal with baklava, a mouth-watering pastry layered with filo dough, honey, and chopped nuts.

Syria

Syrian cuisine boasts a rich history and a diverse range of flavours. Discover Syrian dishes like shawarma, consisting of marinated, slow-roasted meat carved off a rotating spit and served in a warm flatbread with garlic sauce and vegetables. 

Immerse yourself in the delicious tang of muhammara, a spread made from red bell peppers, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste knafeh, a scrumptious dessert made from shredded filo dough, sweet cheese, and syrup, often sprinkled with crushed pistachios.

Essential Ingredients in Arabic Food

Arabic cuisine is known for its rich flavours and unique combinations. To create these delicious dishes, there are a few essential ingredients you need to have in your pantry. 

In this section, we’ll discuss the key spices, meats, and vegetables that form the foundation of Arabic cooking.

Spices

One of the most important aspects of Arabic food is its wide array of spices. A few essential spices you’ll want to have on hand include:

• Baharat: A blend of various spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves. This mix plays a significant role in Middle Eastern dishes.
• Sumac: A tangy spice with a slightly sour flavour, sumac adds a zesty twist to many dishes. It’s often used as a garnish on salads, rice, and meats.
• Ras el Hanout: This is another well-known spice mix, with ingredients that can vary widely depending on the region or the chef’s preferences. Some common components include cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and allspice.

Meat

Arabic cuisine offers several options when it comes to meats, with a particular emphasis on:

• Lamb: This tender, flavourful meat is commonly used in stews, kebabs, and grilled dishes throughout the Middle East. Lamb is often marinated in spices and herbs, resulting in tasty, succulent dishes.
• Chicken: Widely consumed across Arabic countries, chicken is typically grilled, roasted, or cooked in a variety of sauces. Spices like sumac and za’atar are frequently used in chicken recipes for added flavour.

Vegetables

Nutritious and delicious, vegetables play a vital role in Arabic cooking. Here are a few common ones you’ll find in many recipes:

• Aubergines (eggplants): This versatile vegetable is a staple in various Middle Eastern dishes, often being roasted, fried, or stuffed with meat and rice.
• Chickpeas: The basis of several Arabic dishes, chickpeas are used as a key ingredient in recipes like hummus and falafel.
• Bulgur wheat: A type of whole grain, bulgur wheat is used in the making of tabbouleh, a vibrant salad with fresh parsley, mint, and tomatoes.

By stocking your kitchen with these essential ingredients, you’ll be well-equipped to prepare a wide range of Arabic dishes, delighting your taste buds with the diverse flavours of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Popular Arabic Dishes

Let’s dig in.

Hummus

Hummus is a well-known and widely enjoyed Arabic dish made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. 

It is commonly served as a dip or spread, often accompanied by warm pita bread or fresh vegetables. High in protein and fibre, hummus offers both a tasty and healthy option for a snack or appetiser.

Ingredients:

• Chickpeas
• Tahini
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic

Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular street food dish, originating from the Levantine region. This dish consists of thinly sliced, marinated meat (commonly chicken, beef, or lamb) that is stacked onto a vertical spit and slow-roasted. 

The tender, spiced meat is then shaved into thin strips and typically served on a plate with vegetables, or wrapped in pita or flatbread along with crunchy salad, pickles, and a tangy sauce like garlic sauce or tahini.

Preparation:

• Marinating meat
• Slow-roasting on a vertical spit
• Serving in pita or flatbread

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a refreshing and nutritious salad, hailing from the Levant region of the Middle East. It is made from a mixture of finely chopped parsley, tomato, onion, and soaked bulgur wheat, tossed with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. 

Tabbouleh is often served as a side dish or appetiser and is an excellent option for a light, yet flavourful meal.

Main components:

• Finely chopped parsley
• Tomato
• Onion
• Soaked bulgur wheat
• Olive oil and lemon juice dressing

Health Benefits of Arabic Food

Arabic cuisine offers not only a delightful sensory experience but also numerous health benefits. Many dishes in this regional cuisine are packed with nutritious ingredients that can positively impact your well-being.

Firstly, Arabic foods often incorporate heart-healthy oils, such as sunflower oil and extra-virgin olive oil. These oils have been known to help decrease blood pressure and lower your chances of hypertension. 

Furthermore, they assist in keeping your arteries dilated and clear, promoting better cardiovascular health.

One famous Arabic dish you might already be familiar with is hummus. Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice, hummus is a versatile and delicious dip or spread. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein, fibre, and iron, making hummus a nutritious choice for your diet.

Another noteworthy dish in Middle Eastern cuisine is tabouleh. This refreshing salad consists primarily of parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat, all mixed in with lemon juice and olive oil. Tabouleh is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre, contributing to your overall digestive health.

Middle Eastern dishes also tend to include a variety of pickled vegetables, such as gherkins and turnips. Pickling can increase the content of probiotics and beneficial bacteria in these vegetables, which can be advantageous for your gut health. 

To reduce saltiness, you can soak the pickled vegetables in water for 30 minutes before serving.

In conclusion, incorporating Arabic food into your culinary repertoire can offer you not only diverse and tasty meals but also an array of health benefits. From heart-healthy oils to fibre-rich legumes, these dishes can be a delicious addition to your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

Arabic Desserts

Arabic desserts are a delightful treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. These desserts come in a wide range of flavours, textures, and presentations. In this section, we will discuss two popular Arabic desserts: Baklava and Basbousa.

Baklava

Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made from layers of thin, crispy filo pastry sheets, filled with chopped nuts (typically pistachios, walnuts, or almonds), and held together with syrup or honey. The dessert has a long history in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, with each region adding its unique twist to the classic recipe.

Preparation: 

Baklava is traditionally prepared by layering the filo sheets, brushing melted butter between each layer, and then adding the nut mixture. The pastry is then cut into smaller pieces before being baked to achieve a golden-brown colour and a crisp texture. 

After it has been cooled down, a generous amount of sugar syrup or honey is poured over the baklava to create its signature sweetness and stickiness.

Variations: 

Baklava can be presented in various shapes and sizes, such as rectangles, diamonds, or spirals. Adding different types of nuts, spices like cinnamon or cloves, and even flavourings like rose water or orange blossom water can give baklava a unique taste and aroma.

Basbousa

Basbousa, also known as “harissa” or “namoura”, is a popular Arabic dessert made from semolina flour, sugar, and a generous amount of butter or ghee. This sweet, dense cake is often topped with syrup, nuts, or coconut flakes – and sometimes even with a decorative whole almond in each piece.

Preparation:

The main ingredient in basbousa, semolina flour, is combined with sugar, melted butter or ghee, yoghurt, and sometimes baking powder. Once the batter is well mixed, it’s spread evenly in a large, shallow baking dish. 

The cake is then pre-cut into squares or diamond shapes before being baked. After baking, a sugar syrup is poured over the cake, allowing it to soak and absorb the sweet liquid, giving it a moist yet grainy texture.

Variations: 

Basbousa can be flavoured with ingredients like rose water, orange blossom water, or even a hint of lemon. Toppings may include a sprinkle of crushed nuts, such as pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts, or a dusting of desiccated coconut. 

Additionally, some recipes add a layer of sweetened cream or softened cheese in the middle of the cake for an even richer experience.

In conclusion, both baklava and basbousa are scrumptious Arabic desserts that you must try if you haven’t already. The combination of distinct flavours, textures, and ingredients in these desserts makes them a true delight for anyone with a penchant for sweets.

Cooking Techniques in Arabic Cuisine

In Arabic cuisine, you will find a variety of cooking techniques that add unique flavours and textures to the dishes. Understanding these techniques can enhance your appreciation for this rich culinary tradition and help you recreate authentic Arabic dishes in your kitchen.

One of the most common cooking methods in Arabic cuisine is roasting. This technique involves cooking food, usually meat, at a high temperature in an oven or over an open flame. 

Roasting imparts a rich, smoky flavour to dishes and allows the natural tastes of spices to meld with the meat. Shawarma, a popular street food, is a prime example of Arabic cuisine’s mastery of roasting.

Grilling is another technique that is widely used in this cuisine, particularly for kebabs and other meat dishes. Grilling enhances the flavours of meat by caramelising the surface and infusing a smoky aroma. 

Cooking on a skewer also ensures that the meat is cooked evenly and can absorb plenty of flavours from the marinade.

Arabic cuisine also features a significant number of stews and slow-cooked dishes. Cooking food slowly over low heat allows for the flavours of the ingredients to meld together and develop a deep, rich taste. 

Common dishes prepared using this method include tagines and maklouba, which often feature tender meats, vegetables, and fragrant spices such as saffron and cinnamon.

Another distinctive aspect of Arabic cooking is the use of rice and grains. In the eastern region, rice is the prevalent starch, providing a foundation for many meals. In the Maghreb, couscous is more common, offering a fluffy and versatile base. The way you cook and season these grains varies according to regional and cultural preferences but generally involves steaming or boiling them with the addition of spices, nuts, and dried fruits for depth of flavour.

Lastly, frying plays a role in many Arabic dishes, imparting a crispy, golden texture to foods like falafel, samosas, and pakoras. Shallow or deep-frying in oil typically achieves this effect, resulting in a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft interiors of these bites.

Mastering these techniques is essential when exploring the world of Arabic cuisine, and encountering their varied and delicious dishes will reward your taste buds with a journey through the rich traditions and flavours of the Arab world.

Arabic Food Etiquette

When dining in an Arabic setting, it is essential to familiarise yourself with their customs and etiquette to enjoy the experience fully. Here, we will explore the rules and manners expected of you in an Arab home or a Middle Eastern restaurant.

Accepting offers of food and drink: 

As a guest, it is important to accept any food, drinks, or snacks offered to you by your host, as refusal may be considered impolite. However, remember that it is customary for your host to insist even if you initially decline, so feel free to accept their insistence.

Choosing the right type of meat: 

In Arabic cuisine, you should be cautious with your meat selections. Pork is forbidden in Islamic culture, and only halal meat (permitted according to Islamic law) is acceptable. Lamb is commonly served and a safe choice for guests.

Alcohol consumption: 

Abstain from consuming alcohol during your meal, as it is prohibited in Islamic culture. Instead, enjoy non-alcoholic beverages such as tea, coffee, or fruit juices, which are popular in Arab countries.

Dress appropriately: 

When attending an Arab dinner or gathering, make sure to dress modestly. For women, long skirts or trousers alongside long-sleeve shirts that cover the chest area and the nape of the neck are recommended. 

Headscarves are not required for foreigners, but they can show respect for the culture. For men, long trousers and shirts covering the shoulders are advised. Opt for T-shirts or button-down shirts to blend in with the local culture.

Eating with your hands: 

In some Arabic settings, it is customary to eat using your hands, particularly for dishes like bread or rice. Ensure to use your right hand, as the left hand is considered impure in Arabic culture.

Showing appreciation: 

After enjoying the meal, it is essential to show gratitude to the host. Compliment the dishes and express your appreciation for their hospitality.

By adhering to these key points of Arabic food etiquette, you will have a pleasant and respectful experience embracing the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East.

Where to Find the Best Arabic Food?

When searching for the best Arabic food nearby, you can try checking Yelp for well-reviewed Arabic restaurants and eateries in your area. Yelp offers a platform where you can filter by location and look for the highest-rated and most popular Arabic food spots near you, along with users’ reviews and opinions.

In addition to finding a restaurant or eatery, it’s also important for you to familiarise yourself with the most popular Arabic dishes to make the best choices. Some popular Arabic foods to try include Baharat, Ras el Hanout, Fattoush, Foul Meddamas, and Tabouleh.

• Baharat: A blend of 7 or 8 spices like nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves. This is the most widely used blend in the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula.
• Ras el Hanout: A complex and fragrant spice mix, typically including cinnamon, cumin, and ginger. It is widely used in Arabic cooking to enhance flavour.
• Fattoush: A delicious bread salad traditional to the Levantine cuisine, made with mixed greens, and fried Arabic bread pieces, and often includes pomegranate.
• Foul Meddamas: Egypt’s national dish, a stew made of fava beans, olive oil, parsley, onion, garlic, and lemon.
• Tabouleh: A refreshing salad made of bulgur, parsley, mint, onion, and tomatoes.

Exploring local eateries and trying these popular dishes will undoubtedly lead you to the best Arabic food in your area. Remember to keep an open mind, and don’t be afraid to try new dishes and flavours as you search for the finest Arabic cuisine.