10 Must Try Arabic Food Dishes from the Middle East

Arabic cuisine is known for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and wholesome ingredients. Rooted in centuries of tradition, it is a blend of influences from the Middle East, North Africa, and the Mediterranean. Whether you are enjoying a hearty meal or indulging in a sweet dessert, Arabic food offers something for every palate.

In this article, we will explore a selection of mouth-watering Arabic dishes that you should try.

From appetisers and salads to main courses and desserts, Arabic cuisine offers something for every palate. The use of a variety of spices, such as baharat and ras el hanout, lends depth to the flavours, while ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, and an assortment of vegetables and meats provide a medley of textures.

One popular and versatile Arabic Food dish est Hoummous, a chickpea-based dip flavoured with garlic, tahini, and lemon juice. Another delectable treat is kabsa, a combination of rice, meat, and spices commonly enjoyed in Saudi Arabia. 

Histoire de la cuisine arabe

The history of Cuisine arabe dates back to the ancient civilisations of the Middle East, where the Sumerians, Babylonians, Phoenicians or Canaanites, Hittites, Arameans, Assyrians, Egyptians, and Nabateans all contributed to the formation of the Arabic kitchen. 

In the 7th century, when the Arabs arrived on the shores of the eastern Mediterranean and occupied North Africa, they found a wide variety of foods. Some of these culinary elements had ancient origins, going back to the beginning of civilised history. 

cuisine arabe offers a diverse range of dishes, from mezze or small plates like tabouleh to dips like hummus, baba ganoush, and labneh. Each region and country has its specific dishes and culinary traditions. 

For example, Lebanon has a longstanding reputation for its delicious raw meat dishes, while Algeria is known for couscous, a dish steeped in historical significance.

This interwoven relationship allows you to appreciate the depth, complexity, and subtleties of Arabic cuisine holistically.

Prominent Ingredients in Arabic Cuisine

Arabic cuisine is rich, diverse, and flavourful, spanning different regions and cultures throughout the Middle East and North Africa. 

As you explore this culinary tradition, you’ll discover an array of prominent ingredients that serve as the foundation of many dishes.

Here are some key ingredients you’ll find in Arabic cuisine

Pois chiches play a central role in many dishes you’ll encounter in Arabic cuisine, most notably in hummus. When blended with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, chickpeas become a beloved and versatile staple throughout the Middle East.

Couscous et riz are other pivotal ingredients in Arabic dishes. These grains are used to create filling and comforting dishes that are enjoyed by families across the Arab world. While couscous prevails in the Maghreb, rice is more prevalent in the Mashreq.

When it comes to spices, Arabic cuisine boasts a wide variety of bold and fragrant flavours. Baharat, a blend of spices like nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves, is widely used across the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula. 

Another iconic spice mix is Ras el Hanout, which can consist of up to 30 different spices, giving each blend its distinctive flavour.

Za'atar, a tangy seasoning made from ground thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, is another key ingredient in Arabic cuisine. You’ll find it in dishes like tabbouleh salad and falafel, giving them a unique and delicious edge.

In addition to these core ingredients, you’ll also discover that many dishes in Arabic cuisine showcase a wide range of fresh vegetables, fruits, and nuts, which contribute to their vibrant flavours and textures. 

Olive oil is often used for cooking and dressing, adding a rich taste to various dishes. Finally, the Levantine cuisine stands out with its use of meze, snacks based on vegetables, meats, and dried fruits, alongside emblematic recipes like taboule, Hoummous et baba ghanoush.

Plats arabes populaires

Arabic cuisine offers a diverse range of flavours and ingredients, providing a delicious array of dishes. This article will highlight six popular Arabic dishes, which you may want to try when you have the opportunity.

Maamoul (Stuffed Date or Nut Biscuits)

Maamoul is one of the most famous Arabic biscuits, known for its soft, buttery texture and rich fillings. These shortbread-like biscuits are typically filled with dates, pistachios, or walnuts and are shaped using decorative wooden molds. They are popular during Ramadan and Eid celebrations.

Mezzé

Mezze is a selection of small appetisers, often served at the beginning of a meal. These dishes are typically enjoyed with pita bread or fresh vegetables to dip. Some popular mezze items include:

• Hoummous: a classic and popular dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
• Baba Ghanoush: a smoky aubergine dip made with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.
• taboule: a fresh and tangy salad made from bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing.
• Falafel: deep-fried patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices.

Mansaf

Mansaf is a traditional Jordanian dish, known for its hearty and savoury taste. It consists of tender lamb cooked in a yoghurt-based sauce, served over a bed of rice. 

The dish typically features a garnish of toasted almonds, pine nuts, and fresh herbs. Mansaf is often enjoyed during celebrations and gatherings, so it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Shawarma

Le shawarma est un plat populaire l'alimentation de rue in many Middle Eastern countries, and it has gained significant popularity worldwide. The dish features thin slices of marinated meat (typically lamb, chicken, or beef) that are grilled on a slow-turning vertical spit. 

It is typically served in a pita wrap or with a side of rice, accompanied by fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and sometimes garlic sauce for an extra kick.

taboule

As mentioned in the mezze section, tabbouleh is a vibrant and refreshing salad made from finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions. The dish is typically seasoned with lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. It is a nutritious and delicious side dish that pairs well with various Arabic entrées.

Hoummous

Hummus, another component of the mezze selection, is a versatile and delectable dip or spread that has become popular worldwide. Made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice, it is often topped with ingredients like olives, pine nuts, or roasted red peppers for added flavour. 

You can enjoy hummus with pita bread, as a spread on sandwiches, or even as a dressing for salads.

Baklava

Last but not least, baklava is a decadent Arabic dessert that combines layers of crispy phyllo pastry, chopped nuts, and a drizzle of sweet syrup or honey. 

Different variations exist, with some including spices like cinnamon or ground cloves. This indulgent dessert is a perfect way to end an Arabic meal and offers a satisfying balance of sweet and crunchy textures.

Kabsa (Saudi Arabian Spiced Rice with Meat)

Kabsa is a fragrant rice dish cooked with a blend of Arabic spices, tomatoes, and either chicken, lamb, or beef. It is a staple in Saudi Arabian cuisine and similar to biryani, but with distinct Middle Eastern flavors such as cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.

Mandi (Yemeni Smoked Rice and Meat)

Mandi is a Yemeni dish that consists of rice and slow-cooked meat (lamb or chicken), flavored with a mix of spices and cooked in an underground clay oven. It is loved across the Gulf region and is often served at large gatherings.

Falafel (Crispy Fried Chickpea Balls)

Falafel is a popular vegetarian dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with herbs and spices, then deep-fried until crispy. It is often served in pita bread with tahini, hummus, and fresh salad.

Mutabbal (Smoky Eggplant Dip)

Mutabbal is a flavorful dip similar to hummus, but made with roasted eggplant, tahini, yogurt, and garlic. It has a smoky taste and is often enjoyed as part of a mezze (small appetizer dishes).

Fattoush (Levantine Bread Salad)

Fattoush is a refreshing Middle Eastern salad made with crispy pita bread, fresh vegetables, sumac, and a tangy dressing. It is a popular side dish in Arabic cuisine.

Tabouleh (Parsley and Bulgur Salad)

Tabouleh is a healthy and refreshing salad made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, bulgur wheat, and a lemon-olive oil dressing. It is a staple in Lebanese cuisine.

Kibbeh (Stuffed Meat Croquettes)

Kibbeh is a dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with bulgur and spices. It can be deep-fried, baked, or served raw (kibbeh nayyeh). It is widely enjoyed in Lebanon, Syria, and Palestine.

Kofta (Grilled Minced Meat Skewers)

Kofta consists of ground meat (beef or lamb) mixed with spices and shaped into skewers before being grilled. It is often served with rice, bread, or tahini sauce.

Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab/Dolma)

Stuffed grape leaves, also known as warak enab ou dolma, are a popular dish made by wrapping grape leaves around a filling of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. They are slow-cooked in lemony broth for added flavor.

Madrouba (Emirati Creamy Rice Dish)

Madrouba is a comforting dish from the UAE, made with mashed rice, chicken, butter, and spices. It has a creamy, porridge-like consistency and is often eaten during Ramadan.

Harees (Emirati Wheat and Meat Dish)

Harees is a traditional dish made from crushed wheat, meat, and butter, slow-cooked to a smooth consistency. It is popular in the UAE and is commonly eaten during Ramadan and special occasions.

Luqaimat (Arabic Sweet Dumplings)

Luqaimat are crispy, golden-brown dumplings made from a light, yeasted dough, deep-fried, and drizzled with date syrup or honey. They are a favorite dessert in the Middle East, especially during Ramadan.

Kunafa (Cheese Pastry Dessert)

Kunafa is one of the most famous Arabic desserts, made with thin vermicelli-like pastry, filled with cheese or cream, baked, and soaked in sweet syrup. It is commonly enjoyed in Lebanon, Palestine, and Egypt.

Basbousa (Semolina Cake with Syrup)

Basbousa is a soft and moist semolina cake soaked in sugar syrup, often topped with almonds or coconut. It is a favorite dessert across the Arab world.

Umm Ali (Egyptian Bread Pudding)

Umm Ali is a rich and creamy Arabic dessert made with puff pastry, milk, sugar, nuts, and raisins, baked to perfection. It is similar to bread pudding and is popular in Egypt and the Gulf region.

Qatayef (Stuffed Pancakes with Nuts or Cream)

Qatayef are mini pancakes stuffed with nuts, cheese, or cream, folded, and fried or baked before being drizzled with sugar syrup. They are a special treat during Ramadan.

al Variations of Arabic Dishes

Let’s Explore some Regional Variations of Arabic Dishes.

Cuisine levantine

In Levantine cuisine, you’ll find a diverse range of dishes influenced by the lush landscape of the Levant region, which includes countries like Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and Jordan. 

The area is known for its abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, which feature heavily in traditional recipes.

One notable dish is the falafel– a popular street food made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with spices, and deep-fried. Another beloved dish in this region is Hoummous– a creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. 

Levantine cuisine also includes various kinds of stuffed vegetables, known as mahshi, featuring fillings such as rice, minced meat, and herbs.

Cuisine du Golfe

Gulf cuisine, originating from the Arabian Peninsula countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the UAE, is characterized by its abundant use of spices, rice, and meat. In this region, you’ll find Kabsa – a traditional rice dish with meat, lentils, fish, lamb, and spices.

The standout ingredient in many Gulf dishes is the Baharat spice blend, which usually consists of black pepper, cumin, cinnamon, and coriander, among other spices. 

This blend creates rich and flavourful dishes, often simmered in generous amounts of ghee (clarified butter) to enhance the flavour and aroma.

Cuisine nord-africaine

North African cuisine, primarily found in countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, showcases a unique blend of Arab, Mediterranean, and African flavours. Stews, couscous dishes, and tagines are popular offerings in this region.

Key dishes in North African cuisine feature ingredients such as lentils, chickpeas, and various grains. 

Examples of these dishes include Couscous – a staple food of the region made from steamed granules of semolina often served with vegetables, meat, or fish, and Tagine – a slow-cooked savoury stew typically made with meat, vegetables, and spices.

By exploring these regional variations, you will gain a deeper understanding of the rich traditions and unique flavours showcased within Arabic cuisine. Each region offers its distinctive approach to techniques and ingredients, resulting in a diverse and enticing culinary experience for you to enjoy.

Avantages pour la santé de la nourriture arabe

Arabic food offers a wealth of nutritional benefits to support your overall health. Falafel, a deep-fried ball of chickpeas, is a popular Middle Eastern street food that packs a wholesome punch. 

Rich in protein, carbohydrates, and fibre, falafel also contains essential nutrients such as calcium, iron, and vitamin B. To make this dish even healthier, consider frying with coconut oil or baking to reduce the fat content.

Another nutritious Arabic dish is a side plate of pickled vegetables, which may include gherkins and turnips. 

Though pickling uses a considerable amount of salt, you can minimise the saltiness by soaking the vegetables in water for 30 minutes before serving. This will enable you to enjoy the tasty flavour of pickled veggies whilst reducing sodium intake.

When it comes to mood and cognitive health, Arabic foods have you covered. Ingredients like sunflower oil and extra-virgin olive oil, commonly found in Arabic dishes, can help lower blood pressure and decrease your chances of hypertension. 

They also work to keep your arteries dilated and clear. Consuming these healthy oils can even act as a natural Parkinson’s disease treatment and preserve your memory.

Hoummous, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, is highly versatile and boasts significant health benefits. 

Made from chickpeas, this dish can be enjoyed as a dip, sandwich spread, or salad dressing. Rich in protein, essential nutrients, and healthy fats, hummus is a delicious way to maintain a nutritious lifestyle.

In summary, Arabic food is a delicious, nutrient-dense, and highly beneficial choice for those seeking to maintain a mode de vie sain. With a variety of dishes packed with essential nutrients, Middle Eastern cuisine is an excellent option for those aiming to maintain optimal health.

Where to Find Authentic Arabic Food?

If you’re looking to indulge in some authentic Arabic cuisine, you have several options to satisfy your cravings. In the Buffalo, New York area, you can find excellent halal restaurants that offer various Middle Eastern dishes.

One of the popular restaurants is 900 William Street Buffalo, NY 14206. Here, the menu includes authentic Indian and Mediterranean food, including a variety of flavourful kebabs from around the world. All the servings are 100% halal, making it a top choice for those looking for traditional Arabic meals.

Another great option in the Buffalo area is Al Qimma Halal Grill & Butchery located at 4236 Union Rd, Cheektowaga, New York. With a high rating and positive reviews, this Middle Eastern restaurant offers halal dishes and sandwiches, ensuring a delicious and authentic dining experience.

Some popular Arabic dishes you can find at these establishments include:

• Kabsa: A traditional rice dish with meat, lentils, fish, or lamb accompanied by a tasty blend of vegetables and spices.
• Baharat: A unique spice mix consisting of 7 or 8 spices, including nutmeg, cardamom, coriander, paprika, black pepper, cinnamon, cumin, and cloves. This blend is widely used across the Middle East and the Arabian Peninsula.
• Kunafa: A hallmark Middle Eastern dessert with various fillings such as cheese, cream, nuts, pastry cream, chocolate, and fruit.

These are just a few examples of the authentic Arabic dishes you might find at a Buffalo halal restaurant. 

With a mix of rich flavours and tantalising spices, Arabic cuisine is sure to leave you wanting more. So go ahead and embark on your culinary journey to explore the delicious flavours of traditional Arabian cuisine.

Arabic Food in Popular Culture

As you explore the world of Arabic cuisine, you will find it has made a significant impact on popular culture. 

With its rich flavours and unique combinations, Arabic dishes have become increasingly well-known among food enthusiasts, often being featured in mainstream media, both in the Middle East and internationally.

One of the most iconic Arabic dishes is Hoummous, a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. 

It’s served as an appetiser with pita bread or fresh vegetables and has become a staple in many Western households, even being sold in supermarkets in various flavours.

Manakeesh is another popular dish, often referred to as the pizza of the Arab world. A round bread is topped with either cheese, ground meat or herbs (zaatar) before being baked. 

The simplicity and versatility of Manakeesh have helped it to gain a following outside the Arab world, and it’s now served in many Middle Eastern restaurants globally.

The Levantine salad, Fattouche, is a celebrated Arabic dish that showcases a delightful blend of mixed greens, fried Arabic bread, and seasonal vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and radish. 

Garnished with pomegranate seeds for added flavour and colour, Fattoush is a prime example of how the Arab culture employs a variety of fresh ingredients in their cuisine.

Moreover, Arabic cuisine has found its way into international cooking competitions and TV shows, such as MasterChef, allowing contestants to demonstrate their skills in preparing dishes like Falafel, Shawarma, and Baklava. 

These shows have played a part in introducing and promoting Middle Eastern flavours to a wider audience, encouraging people to venture into this culinary world.

In summary, Arabic food has steadily gained admiration and recognition in popular culture due to its unique flavours and versatility. As a result, dishes like Hummus, Manakeesh, and Fattoush have found their way onto restaurant menus and TV screens worldwide, allowing more people to appreciate the delicious offerings of Arabic cuisine.

Arabic Food Dishes – Conclusion

Arabic food dish is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and traditions. From hearty rice dishes like Mansaf and Kabsa to mouthwatering sweets like Kunafa and Luqaimat, every dish tells a story of history and culture. Whether you are exploring Arabic food for the first time or are already a fan, there is always something new and delicious to try.

Over time, it has evolved, influenced by various conquerors, settlements, and trade with Europe and Asia. As an enthusiast of Arabic food, you’ll certainly appreciate the wide variety of dishes and flavours this cuisine has to offer.