Cookbook Preview: East/West: A Culinary Journey through Malta, Lebanon, Iran, Turkey, Morocco (2017)

rabbit

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken is a leaner option, while pork is often less expensive.

octopus

🥗Healthier: squid

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

Squid provides a similar texture, while canned tuna is more affordable.

cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Nutritional yeast is lower in fat, while processed cheese is often cheaper.

wine

🥗Healthier: grape juice

💰Cheaper: sparkling water

Grape juice offers a similar flavor profile without alcohol, while sparkling water is budget-friendly.

Prepare the rabbit by marinating it with garlic, parsley, and bay leaves for at least 2 hours.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add the marinated rabbit and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the rabbit and set aside; add chopped onions and garlic to the pot, cooking until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in diced tomatoes, capers, and olives; cook for another 5 minutes.

Return the rabbit to the pot, add wine, and simmer for 1 hour until tender.

Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes; drain and set aside.

In a separate pot, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and toss with olive oil.

Prepare the octopus by boiling it for 30-40 minutes until tender; cool and chop into pieces.

In a bowl, combine cooked octopus with lemon juice, garlic, and parsley; season with salt and pepper.

Serve the rabbit stew over the pasta, garnished with boiled potatoes and octopus salad.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: