Famous Arabic Food – A Culinary Journey Through the Middle East

Arabic cuisine offers a rich and diverse array of flavours and techniques that have evolved over centuries. Originating from the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula, these delectable dishes have become an integral part of the culinary heritage of many nations in the region. 

Each country often brings its unique twist to traditional recipes, giving you a delightful dining experience filled with flavourful spices, tender meats, and fresh vegetables.

As you explore the world of Arabic food, you’ll discover dishes like hummus made from mashed chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic – a staple for many households. 

Another renowned dish is fattoush, a delicious bread salad originating from the Levantine cuisine, commonly enjoyed in Lebanon and Syria. Consisting of mixed greens and small pieces of fried Arabic bread, it often includes pomegranate for an added burst of flavour.

Furthermore, Arabic cuisine boasts an extensive range of cheeses, such as shanklish, halloumi, and arisheh, and soups like kishk and lentil-based broths. 

The versatile pita bread, or Arabic bread, is often served as a side dish or used to scoop up mouth-watering dips like baba ganoush and labneh. With so many dishes to choose from, prepare yourself to indulge in the flavours and aromas that have captivated the hearts of food enthusiasts for generations.

A Brief History of Arabic Cuisine

As you delve into the rich history of Arabic cuisine, you’ll find that it dates back to the ancient civilisations of the Middle East. The Sumerians, Babylonians, Phoenicians, Canaanites, Hittites, Arameans, Assyrians, Egyptians, and Nabateans all contributed to the development of the Arab kitchen. 

This diverse cultural influence resulted from trade and the exchange of regional ingredients and cooking techniques.

Arabic cuisine spans a broad geographic area, from the Maghreb region in North Africa to the Fertile Crescent and the Arabian Peninsula. 

As a result, different regions have varied staple foods. For example, couscous is predominant in the west (Maghreb), whereas rice is more popular in the east (Mashreq).

A fascinating aspect of Arabic cuisine is the historical influence it holds over other culinary traditions, like Spanish cuisine. 

It’s believed that the popular Spanish dish known as paella is a true Arab invention. This is because, during the Arab rule of Spain (711-1492), the culinary exchange between the cultures left a lasting impact on many cuisines.

In Arab cuisine, you’ll often find small plates known as ‘mezze’ serving as appetisers. One such dish, tabouleh, is a prevalent mezze dish in many Middle Eastern countries. It’s simple yet flavourful, leaving a significant impression on those who taste it.

As you explore the culinary treasures of Arabic cuisine, you’ll find a unique blend of tastes, textures, and flavours, born from centuries of cultural exchange and culinary innovation. From delectable small plates to mouthwatering mains, the history of Arabic cuisine is as complex and fascinating as the dishes themselves.

Distinctive Features of Arabic Food

In Arabic cuisine, you’ll notice the rich variety of flavours and fragrances that make it a unique and unforgettable experience. 

Spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and cinnamon are extensively used in numerous dishes, lending a mixture of warmth and earthiness. But the signature flavours don’t end there; sumac, lemon, pomegranate syrup, sour cherry, and plum bring tangy, fruity accents that further elevate the taste.

As you explore this culinary world, you’ll come across popular dishes like Kofta, made from ground beef or lamb, expertly seasoned with cumin, coriander, and paprika. This dish is a beloved component of the traditional table, with the meatballs formed into various shapes to suit regional preferences.

Another widespread staple in Arabic cuisine is the ‘mezze,’ or ‘small plate.’ A prime example is tabouleh, a fresh salad found in many Middle Eastern countries. It’s usually served as a precursor to the main course, offering a light, zesty contrast made from bulgur, finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, and onions, and drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.

When it comes to the choice between couscous and rice, regional differences play a significant role. In the west or Maghreb, couscous is a prevalent option, while in the eastern regions, known as the Mashreq, rice takes centre stage. This is a marker of the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Arabic cuisine throughout history.

Overall, Arabic food is a vibrant and complex interplay of flavours and techniques that reflect centuries of culinary expertise and cultural exchange. As you savour each dish, you’re taking part in a storied tradition that bridges geographies and unites palates.

Noteworthy Arabic Dishes

Arabic cuisine is diverse and rich, with a wide range of flavorful dishes that vary across different regions. Here are some noteworthy Arabic dishes:

Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Arabic dish made with seasoned meat, usually chicken, beef, or lamb. The meat is marinated and then slowly roasted on a rotating vertical spit. As the meat cooks, it develops a delicious outer crust and is thinly sliced and served with pita bread. You can also enjoy your shawarma with a variety of accompaniments, such as sliced vegetables, garlic sauce, or tahini.

Falafel

Falafel is a tasty and satisfying dish that has its origins in Egypt. These deep-fried balls are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with fresh herbs, spices, and onions. They have a crispy outer texture and a soft, flavourful interior. Falafel is often served on pita bread with a generous dollop of tahini sauce, alongside salad and pickled vegetables.

Hummus

Hummus is a creamy, smooth dip made from cooked, mashed chickpeas, blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. This quintessential Arabic dish is enjoyed across the Middle East and has become popular around the world. You can enjoy hummus as a dip with pita bread or as a spread in sandwiches or wraps.

Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a fresh and vibrant salad, traditionally made with bulgur wheat, finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and mint. It is dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, and seasonings. Tabbouleh is a staple in Lebanese cuisine, often served as a side dish or a light meal. The combination of flavours and textures makes it a delightful addition to any Arabic meal.

Kibbeh

Kibbeh is a savoury dish with origins in the Levantine region. It is made from a mixture of finely ground meat, typically lamb or beef, combined with bulgur wheat, onions, and various spices. Kibbeh can be shaped into balls or patties and deep-fried, baked, or served raw. It is often accompanied by a side of yoghurt or fresh herbs.

Mansaf

Mansaf is Jordan’s traditional and most renowned dish. It consists of a generous portion of tender, slow-cooked lamb served atop a bed of rice, and garnished with rehydrated yoghurt sauce called jameed, which adds a distinctive tang. Mansaf is often garnished with toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts and is typically eaten with friends or family on special occasions.

Throughout the Arab world, these dishes have become a culinary symbol, showcasing the diversity and richness of flavours the region has to offer. As you explore these dishes on their own or in combination, you’re sure to develop a deeper appreciation of Arabic cuisine and its rich history.

Iconic Arabic Desserts

Arabic cuisine is known for its rich and flavourful dishes, and the desserts are no exception. The following are some of the most iconic Arabic desserts that you should try:

Baklava

Baklava is probably the most well-known Arabic dessert across the globe. This sweet treat consists of layers of delicate, buttery phyllo dough, filled with a mixture of crushed nuts such as walnuts, pistachios, or hazelnuts. The layers of pastry and nuts are then drizzled with a sweet syrup made from sugar or honey, giving it a unique texture and flavour.

Baklava comes in various shapes and forms, and you might find regional variations in the choice of nuts, spices, or the sweetness level of syrup. Whether you prefer it with a cup of tea or as a standalone treat, baklava is a must-try for anyone dipping their toes into the world of Arabic desserts.

Kunafah

Kunafah is another popular Arabic dessert, known for its unique, stringy texture and its beautiful presentation. This dessert is made from thin strands of dough called kadayif, which are combined with a blend of melted butter or ghee. The dough is then layered with soft cheese and baked until golden and crispy.

Once baked, it’s drenched in a rosewater or orange blossom-infused syrup. As a finishing touch, kunafah is often garnished with crushed pistachios, giving it a vibrant contrast of colours and flavours. With a perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and creamy, kunafah is worth adding to your list of Arabic desserts to try.

Basbousa

Basbousa, also known as hareesa or namoura, is a dense and moist semolina cake popular across the Middle East. The cake is made by mixing fine semolina, sugar, yoghurt, and softened butter, creating a thick batter. It’s then baked and soaked in sweet syrup, allowing it to absorb all the flavours.

This dessert is typically served in square or diamond shapes and is often garnished with a single almond or a piece of blanched and peeled almond on top. Some variations of basbousa may also include shredded coconut or the addition of spices like cinnamon or cardamom. Soft, sweet, and satisfying, basbousa is another excellent Arabic dessert you should try.

Arabic Food Preparation Methods

Arabic cuisine is known for its rich flavours, use of diverse ingredients, and various preparation techniques. In this section, we will explore the essential cooking methods used in preparing popular Arabic dishes: grilling, baking and stewing.

Grilling

Grilling is a popular method used in Arabic cuisine, particularly for meats and vegetables. The technique harnesses the direct heat from an open flame or a bed of charcoal to impart an irresistible smoky flavour to the ingredients. Skewered meats, such as kebabs and shawarma, are common examples of Arabic dishes prepared using grilling. To get the best results when grilling:

• Marinate your meat or vegetables in aromatic spices, such as baharat or Ras el Hanout, to enhance their flavour.
• Preheat your grill to ensure optimal cooking temperatures.
• Use a basting brush to coat your ingredients with oil or melted butter during the grilling process for added moisture and flavour.

Baking

Baking is another versatile cooking technique used in Arab cuisine, ranging from savoury dishes to sweet pastries. 

One of the unique baking methods in the region involves using a traditional oven called a Tannoor. The oven, which resembles a large, clay-lined pit, is preheated using charcoal or wood and produces consistent, even heat. When baking Arabic dishes:

• Be mindful of your oven temperature and cooking times, as Arab pastries and bread, like baklava and pita, require precise conditions for optimal results.
• Use good quality olive oil or clarified butter (ghee) when preparing dough or coating ingredients.
• Experiment with various fillings for savoury dishes, such as meat, cheese, or spinach, to cater to different tastes.

Stewing

Stewing is a slow-cooking method that allows for the flavours in a dish to meld together over time, creating rich and hearty meals. Many Arabic stews, such as tagines and kabsa, involve combining meats, vegetables, and spices in a single pot and simmering them for an extended period. To ensure a successful stewing process:

• Choose cuts of meat that benefit from slow cooking, such as lamb shanks or chicken thighs, for tender and flavourful results.
• Brown your ingredients before adding liquids to enhance the depth of flavour in the final dish.
• Use aromatic spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin, to create complex and harmonious flavour profiles in your stew.

By mastering these primary Arabic food preparation methods, you can create an array of delicious dishes that showcase the diverse tastes and textures of this beautiful cuisine.

Role of Spices in Arabic Cuisine

Arabic cuisine is renowned for its use of exotic and distinctive spices, which play a crucial part in creating its unique and flavourful dishes. In this section, we will explore the roles of Sumac, Za’atar, and Cumin in Arabic cuisine.

Sumac

Sumac is a vibrant red spice made from the dried berries of the sumac bush. It has a tangy, slightly sour flavour, which makes it a versatile ingredient in Middle Eastern dishes. 

Sumac is frequently used as a seasoning for grilled meats, fish, and salads, adding a bold splash of colour and zesty taste to your meal. It is also a key ingredient in the traditional “fattoush” salad, where the spice helps balance the flavours and adds a refreshing tanginess.

Za’atar

Za’atar is a popular spice blend that typically includes dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, toasted sesame seeds, and salt. Though the ingredients may vary slightly from region to region, za’atar’s flavour profile remains largely consistent. This versatile blend can be used in several ways:

• As a seasoning for meats, veggies, and even rice dishes
• Sprinkled atop flatbread with some cheese and then grilled, for a simple yet flavoursome snack
• Mixed with olive oil to create a tasty dip for bread

Za’atar’s appetising aroma and unique taste make it an essential component in traditional Middle Eastern cuisines.

Cumin

Cumin is a highly fragrant, warm-toned spice that is often used to create an unmistakable aroma and taste, particularly in falafel. It is one of the principal ingredients in Arabic cuisine, with a diverse range of applications:

• Added to rice dishes, such as pilaf, for an earthy flavour and aroma
• Blended with other spices in marinades for meats and vegetables
• Used to season legumes and pulses, such as lentils and chickpeas, in traditional soups and stews

Cumin’s distinctive taste and versatility make it a vital spice for achieving the unique flavours of Arabic cuisine.

By truly understanding the role and significance of Sumac, Za’atar, and Cumin, you can elevate your Middle Eastern dishes and capture the essence of this region’s delicious culinary offerings.

Influence on Global Cuisine

The influence of Arabic cuisine on the global culinary scene is quite significant, particularly in regions where Arab traders and conquerors have journeyed. Throughout history, the delectable recipes full of spices and unique flavours have spread far and wide, shaping the food culture of many nations.

In Southern Europe, for example, the impact of Arabic cuisine can be traced back to the times when Arab conquerors occupied parts of Spain, Sicily, and France. 

Their presence in Iberia for 900 years and 400 years in Sicily and southern France had an indelible effect on the local food scene. Expect to find ingredients like saffron, pine nuts, and aubergines as common constituents of these regions’ delicacies, demonstrating the lasting Arab influence.

Moving to the New World, Latin American countries have shown an affinity to the flavours of Arabic cuisine as well. Empanadas, a popular snack in several Latin American nations, have been inspired by sambousek, a delicious stuffed pastry found in numerous Arab countries. 

Social and cultural exchanges like these have undoubtedly shaped the gastronomic culture in both parts of the world.

Furthermore, many people might not realise that common dishes found in the Western world are deeply rooted in Arabic cuisine. 

Hummus, a chickpea-based dip, and falafel, deep-fried chickpea balls, have quickly become staples in a variety of diets, including vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. Importantly, these dishes have aided in promoting healthy and sustainable food choices.

To summarise, the distinct blend of flavours and ingredients found in Arabic cuisine has significantly influenced food traditions in many regions around the globe. From Southern Europe to Latin America, you will encounter several dishes that attest to the widespread impact of Arabic culinary heritage.

Famous Arabic Food – Conclusion

Arabic cuisine is a delightful and diverse culinary experience that you should not miss. With its rich flavours, textures, and spices, it is one of the most unique and varied cuisines in the world. As you explore this delicious cuisine, keep in mind its long history and cultural significance, and appreciate the vast array of dishes that have emerged from the Arab world.

Remember to savour the aromatic spice blends, such as Baharat and Ras el Hanout, which are key ingredients in many Arabic dishes. These spice mixes impart a deep and complex flavour profile to your food, elevating even the simplest of dishes. Additionally, you’ll encounter staple ingredients like rice, bread, and oil, which provide the backbone of many meals in Arabic cooking.

As you try various Arabic dishes, consider their geographical and cultural origins. Whether it’s a dish from the Maghreb, which showcases couscous and vibrant flavours or a meal from the Mashreq, where rice and aromatic spices abound, each dish tells a story of the people who created it and the landscape that influenced it.

To conclude, exploring Arabic cuisine is an adventure in taste, history, and culture. By indulging in these delicious dishes, you are not only treating your palate to unforgettable flavours, but you are also experiencing a crucial aspect of Arabic identity. So go ahead, dive into the world of Arabic food, and let your senses guide you on an appetising journey.