15 Traditional Middle Eastern Dishes to Cook at Home

Explore the rich and diverse flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with these 15 traditional dishes that you can cook at home. Each dish offers different taste experience, blending aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and time-honored cooking methods. From savory stews to vibrant salads and flavorful grilled meats, these recipes showcase the region’s culinary heritage. Discover new flavors like sumac, za’atar, and pomegranate molasses, and learn how simple ingredients can create complex, mouthwatering dishes. Excellent for family meals or special gatherings, these recipes will elevate your cooking repertoire with authentic Middle Eastern flavors.

1. Kibbeh

Kibbeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from bulgur wheat, minced onions, and finely ground meat, usually beef or lamb. The outer shell is crisp and golden, while the inside remains juicy and flavorful. To make kibbeh, mix 250g of bulgur with 500g of ground meat, 1 finely chopped onion, and spices like allspice and cinnamon. Form into oval shapes around a filling of cooked meat and pine nuts. Fry until golden. Serve with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a delightful bite. Kibbeh can also be baked for a healthier option.

2. Falafel

Falafel is a popular street food made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. With a crunchy exterior and soft interior, these balls are seasoned with herbs and spices. Start with 500g of soaked, uncooked chickpeas, blended with garlic, onion, parsley, and cumin. Shape into small balls and fry in hot oil until crispy. Serve in pita bread with tahini sauce, chopped salad, and pickles. For a lighter version, bake the falafel in the oven. This versatile dish is excellent for vegetarians and can be enjoyed as a snack or main meal.

3. Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is a refreshing salad made from finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, and soaked bulgur. It’s dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, offering a light and tangy flavor. To prepare, soak 100g of bulgur in warm water. Mix with 2 bunches of chopped parsley, 3 diced tomatoes, 1 chopped cucumber, and a handful of mint leaves. Dress with the juice of 2 lemons and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. This salad is an excellent side dish, bringing a burst of freshness to any meal.

4. Mansaf

Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, featuring lamb cooked with jameed, a fermented dried yogurt. It’s served over rice and garnished with nuts. To make mansaf, boil 1kg of lamb with spices and onions. Prepare jameed sauce by blending it with water until smooth. Cook rice separately. Layer the rice on a large platter, place the lamb on top, and pour over the jameed sauce. Garnish with roasted almonds and pine nuts. This dish is traditionally eaten with hands and is a symbol of Jordanian hospitality.

5. Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a dish of poached eggs in a spiced tomato sauce. It’s excellent for breakfast or brunch. Begin by cooking onions and bell peppers in olive oil. Add 500g of chopped tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of cumin, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Simmer until thickened. Make small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them. Cover and cook until eggs are set. Garnish with parsley or coriander. Serve with warm bread for dipping. This simple, hearty meal is both satisfying and nutritious.

6. Za’atar Manakish

Manakish is a popular Lebanese flatbread topped with za’atar, a blend of herbs and sesame seeds. To prepare, mix 500g of flour, 2 teaspoons of yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt with water to form a dough. Let it rise, then roll into rounds. Spread a mixture of za’atar and olive oil over the top. Bake until golden. Enjoy with fresh vegetables or cheese. This versatile bread can be served for breakfast or as a snack. It embodies the aromatic flavors of the Middle East.

7. Kofta

Kofta consists of spiced ground meat, often shaped into balls or patties, and grilled. To make kofta, combine 500g of ground beef or lamb with 1 chopped onion, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, and spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Form into elongated patties and thread onto skewers. Grill over medium heat until fully cooked. Serve with flatbread, salad, or yogurt sauce. This dish is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in various settings.

8. Mujadara

Mujadara is a simple yet flavorful dish of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal. Cook 200g of lentils until tender. In another pot, cook 200g of rice with 1 teaspoon of cumin. Combine lentils and rice, and top with onions caramelized in olive oil. Serve with yogurt or a salad. This dish is rich in protein and offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a popular choice for vegetarians and those seeking a hearty meal.

9. Baba Ghanoush

Baba ghanoush is a smoky eggplant dip, ideal for appetizers. Grill or roast 2 large eggplants until soft. Scoop out the flesh and blend with 3 tablespoons of tahini, 2 cloves of garlic, the juice of 1 lemon, and salt. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with pomegranate seeds or parsley. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables. This dip is creamy and rich, offering a delightful combination of smoky and tangy flavors. It’s a fine addition to any mezze platter.

10. Fattoush

Fattoush is a fresh salad made with mixed greens and crispy pita bread. It’s a way to use up leftover vegetables. Begin by tearing 2 pieces of pita bread into small pieces and toasting them. Combine with chopped romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and mint. Dress with olive oil and lemon, and sprinkle with sumac for a tangy kick. This salad is crunchy, flavorful, and ideal for a light lunch or side dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted based on available ingredients.

11. Baklava

Baklava is a rich, sweet pastry made of layers of filo filled with nuts and sweetened with syrup. To prepare, brush layers of filo pastry with butter, and layer with 300g of chopped nuts like walnuts or pistachios. Repeat until all the filo is used. Bake until golden. Pour a syrup of sugar, water, and lemon juice over the hot pastry. Let cool before serving. This dessert is a favorite in Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a delightful combination of crispy pastry and sweet, nutty filling.

12. Dolma

Dolma refers to grape leaves stuffed with a rice mixture, often including meat, pine nuts, and spices. To make dolma, blanch grape leaves. Prepare filling with 200g of rice, 200g of minced meat, pine nuts, and spices. Place a spoonful of filling onto each leaf, fold, and roll. Arrange in a pot, cover with water, and simmer until cooked. Serve with lemon wedges and yogurt. This dish is a labor of love, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures that is worth the effort.

13. Bamya

Bamya is a comforting stew of okra and meat, typically beef or lamb, in a tomato sauce. To make, brown 500g of beef cubes in olive oil. Add 500g of fresh okra, 2 cans of chopped tomatoes, garlic, and spices like coriander and turmeric. Simmer until the meat is tender and the sauce thickens. Serve over rice or with bread. This hearty stew is a staple in many Middle Eastern households, offering warmth and nourishment with every bite.

14. Kanafeh

Kanafeh is a dessert made from thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup, layered with cheese, and often topped with nuts. To make, layer shredded filo pastry with a cheese filling, bake until golden, and soak in a sugar syrup. Garnish with pistachios. This dessert is popular during special occasions, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. It’s sweet, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, making it a treasured treat in Middle Eastern cuisine.

15. Freekeh

Freekeh is a type of green wheat that’s roasted and rubbed to create a smoky, nutty grain. Cook like rice, using 2 cups of stock for every cup of freekeh. Simmer until tender. Serve as a side dish or with vegetables and meat. It’s high in fiber and protein, making it a nutritious choice. Freekeh’s flavor and chewy texture make it a popular alternative to rice and couscous in Middle Eastern cooking, offering a wholesome addition to any meal.