53 Best Middle Eastern Recipes

You may know hummus and baba ghannouj, but have you heard of torshi seer? Spanning the vast region east of the Mediterranean, the Middle East is comprised of nearly 20 different nations—including Israel, Lebanon, and the countries of the Arabian Peninsula—each with its own defining set of ingredients, influences, and techniques. As a result, the phrase “Middle Eastern cuisine” encompasses an incredibly diverse array of dishes.

Among them? Such crowd-pleasing Middle Eastern appetizers as Turkey’s dainty Manti dumplings, rich Zucchini and Feta Fritters, and snackable Koftas. Our favorite Middle Eastern dinner recipes run the gamut from roast chicken (done the traditional Iraqi and Palestinian ways) to the grilled, stewed, and fried lamb methods that are popular throughout the region. Of course, there are spectacular vegetarian, vegan, and seafood options, too. The dietary restrictions of three major religions represented in the Middle East—Islam, Judaism, and Coptic Christianity—have given rise to some seriously inventive meat- and dairy-free cooking. This Chickpea Stew and Red Lentil and Squash Soup, both from Palestine, can serve as main dishes or a first course.

As for condiments, the aforementioned torshi seer (sweet-tart, fermented garlic from Iran) adds complex acidity to roasted and stewed meats, while Israelis slather schug (a Yemenite chile sauce) over falafel and french fries as liberally as Americans use ketchup.

Finally, for a sweet way to end your Middle Eastern menu, learn how to make date-filled Lebanese Maamoul cookies or flaky Israeli baklava.

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