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MY 3 FAVORITE MIDDLE EASTERN DISHES for COOKING on a BUDGET

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Feast In The Middle East
Feast In The Middle East
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Recipes in this Video

3 recipes
veganplant-basedgluten-free

Hummus has its roots in the Levant region, particularly Lebanon, where it is a staple in many households. Traditionally served as a mezze, it brings people together, often enjoyed with pita bread or fresh vegetables. Today, hummus has gained international popularity, with countless variations and flavors appearing worldwide.

Ingredients

  • chickpeas
  • tahini
  • lemon juice
  • garlic
  • olive oil
  • cumin
  • salt
  • water
  • paprika
  • fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. 1Soak chickpeas in water overnight.
  2. 2Drain and rinse chickpeas, then place in a pot with fresh water.
  3. 3Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender, about 1-1.5 hours.
  4. 4Drain the chickpeas and reserve some cooking liquid.
  5. 5In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin.
  6. 6Blend until smooth, adding reserved cooking liquid as needed to reach desired consistency.
  7. 7Season with salt to taste and blend again.
  8. 8Transfer hummus to a serving bowl.
  9. 9Drizzle olive oil on top and sprinkle with paprika.
  10. 10Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
sesamegluten
vegetarianveganplant-basedgluten-free

Originating from the Middle East, falafel is a popular street food made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. It holds cultural significance as a staple in vegetarian diets and is often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and sauces. Today, falafel is enjoyed worldwide, with variations in spices and serving styles reflecting local tastes.

Ingredients

  • chickpeas
  • onion
  • garlic
  • fresh parsley
  • fresh cilantro
  • cumin
  • coriander
  • baking powder
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • flour
  • water
  • vegetable oil
  • tahini
  • lemon juice
  • pita bread
  • tomatoes
  • cucumber
  • lettuce

Instructions

  1. 1Soak chickpeas in water overnight, then drain.
  2. 2Pulse soaked chickpeas in a food processor until coarsely ground.
  3. 3Add onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and black pepper to the processor.
  4. 4Pulse until combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
  5. 5Transfer mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  6. 6Form mixture into small balls or patties.
  7. 7Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F.
  8. 8Fry falafel in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  9. 9Drain on paper towels.
  10. 10Serve falafel in pita bread with tahini, lemon juice, tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce.
  11. 11Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
glutensesame
vegetarianveganplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-free

Tabbouleh is a traditional Levantine salad, particularly popular in Lebanon and Syria. It is known for its fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors, often served as a side dish or part of a mezze platter. The dish highlights the use of parsley, which is the main ingredient, and reflects the Mediterranean diet's emphasis on fresh vegetables and herbs. Tabbouleh has gained international popularity and is often associated with healthy eating.

Ingredients

  • bulgur
  • parsley
  • tomatoes
  • mint
  • onion
  • olive oil
  • lemon juice
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse the bulgur and soak it in water until tender.
  2. 2Drain and squeeze out excess water from the bulgur.
  3. 3Finely chop the parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onion.
  4. 4In a large bowl, combine the bulgur with the chopped vegetables.
  5. 5Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
  6. 6Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. 7Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  8. 8Let it sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  9. 9Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredient Alternatives

bulgur

Healthier: quinoa

Cheaper: couscous

Quinoa is gluten-free and more nutritious, while couscous is often less expensive.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is rich in healthy fats, while canola oil is budget-friendly.

Techniques

choppedmixed

Equipment

bowlknifecutting boardmeasuring spoons
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

TabbouliTabbouleh Salad

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