Explore the delicious and diverse flavors of Arabic cuisine with these 18 classic and creative recipes. Each dish brings a different taste, making it easy to try new ingredients and flavors in your kitchen. From light appetizers to satisfying main courses and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These recipes are simple to follow and suitable for adding variety to your meals. Try them out and bring a touch of Arabic cooking to your table, making meals more delicious. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and techniques.
1. Stuffed Grape Leaves
Stuffed Grape Leaves, also known as ‘Warak Enab,’ are a traditional Arabic dish made by rolling grape leaves with a flavorful rice mixture. Start by soaking 200g of grape leaves in hot water to soften them. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by combining 250g of rice, 100g of minced lamb, 50g of chopped onions, and a mix of spices including 1 teaspoon of allspice and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Add 2 tablespoon of olive oil and 20g of pine nuts. Roll the leaves with the filling and arrange them in a pot. Cover with water and lemon juice, and cook on low heat for 45 minutes. Serve warm or cold with yogurt.
2. Falafel with a Twist
Falafel is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, but adding unexpected flavors can enhance this classic. Begin by soaking 200g of dried chickpeas overnight. Drain and blend them with 50g of chopped parsley, 50g of cilantro, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and a pinch of chili powder. Add 50g of spinach for a green twist. Shape the mixture into balls, then fry in hot oil until golden brown. Serve with tahini, hummus, or a zesty lemon dip. This fresh take on falafel is both nutritious and delicious, suitable for any occasion. Enjoy them as a snack or in a wrap with fresh vegetables.
3. Zaatar Manakeesh
Zaatar Manakeesh is a classic Lebanese flatbread topped with a fragrant mix of herbs and spices. To prepare, mix 300g of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of yeast, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 150ml of warm water to form a dough. Let it rise for 1 hour. Roll out the dough, then spread a mixture of 3 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoon of zaatar over the top. Bake at 200°C for 10-12 minutes until the edges are crispy. Serve hot, sliced into pieces. This savory treat is suitable for breakfast or as a side dish, offering a taste of traditional Middle Eastern flavors.
4. Sweet and Savory Couscous
Couscous is a versatile staple in Arabic cooking, and this version combines sweet and savory elements. Begin by boiling 250ml of vegetable broth. Add 200g of couscous, cover, and let it steam for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, then mix in 50g of chopped dried apricots, 30g of raisins, 30g of almonds, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This colorful dish is not only visually appealing but also a delightful mix of flavors, making it a nice side dish or a light meal on its own.
5. Baba Ganoush with Pomegranate
Baba Ganoush is a creamy eggplant dip with a smoky flavor. For a refreshing twist, add pomegranate seeds. Begin by roasting 2 medium eggplants until the skin is charred. Peel and mash them in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoon of tahini, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix until smooth, then top with 50g of pomegranate seeds and a drizzle of olive oil. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. This variation of Baba Ganoush offers a delightful contrast between the creamy dip and the juicy pomegranate, providing a burst of flavor in every bite.
6. Saffron-Infused Rice
Saffron-Infused Rice is a luxurious addition to any meal, offering aromatic flavors and colors. Start by soaking 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads in 2 tablespoon of warm water. In a pot, cook 250g of basmati rice in 500ml of water with 1 teaspoon of salt. Once cooked, fluff the rice and mix in the saffron water. Add 30g of toasted almonds and 20g of raisins for extra texture and taste. Serve this fragrant rice as a side dish to complement main courses, bringing an elegant touch to your dining table with its rich aroma and inviting appearance.
7. Lamb Tagine with Apricots
Lamb Tagine with Apricots is a slow-cooked Moroccan dish known for its tender meat and sweet flavors. In a tagine or pot, brown 500g of lamb cubes. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and spices like 1 teaspoon of cumin and 1/2 teaspoon of ginger. Stir in 200g of canned tomatoes and 100g of dried apricots. Pour in 500ml of broth, cover, and let simmer for 2 hours until the lamb is tender. Serve with couscous or bread. This dish combines savory and sweet elements, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that’s suitable for special occasions or family dinners.
8. Chickpea and Spinach Stew
Chickpea and Spinach Stew is a nutritious and hearty dish suitable for a comforting meal. In a large pot, cook 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in 2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir in 400g of canned chickpeas and 200g of spinach. Pour 500ml of vegetable broth and let simmer for 15 minutes. The stew is ready when the spinach is wilted and the flavors have blended. Serve hot with bread or rice for a filling and wholesome meal, rich in flavors and nutrients.
9. Lentil Soup with Lemon
Lentil Soup with Lemon is a simple yet flavorful dish that is both nourishing and satisfying. Begin by cooking 1 chopped onion and 1 minced garlic clove in 2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add 200g of lentils, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric. Pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth and let simmer for 30 minutes until the lentils are tender. Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon into the soup before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro. This soup’s tangy lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist, making it a delightful starter or a light main course.
10. Rose Water Pudding
Rose Water Pudding is a fragrant and delicate dessert that’s a treat for the senses. To make this delightful pudding, dissolve 50g of cornstarch in 100ml of cold water. In a saucepan, heat 500ml of milk with 100g of sugar and 2 tablespoon of rose water. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture until thickened. Pour into serving bowls and let cool. Garnish with crushed pistachios and rose petals for an elegant finish. This pudding offers a sweet and aromatic experience, suitable with meal.
11. Spiced Carrot and Orange Salad
Spiced Carrot and Orange Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Grate 300g of carrots and mix with the segments of 2 oranges. In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. This salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful combination of sweetness and spice. It’s a suitable side dish or a light, healthy snack, adding a burst of flavor and color to your table.
12. Beef Kofta Skewers
Beef Kofta Skewers are a popular Middle Eastern dish made from minced beef and aromatic spices. Mix 500g of minced beef with 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1/2 teaspoon of coriander, and a pinch of salt. Shape the mixture onto skewers, pressing firmly to secure. Grill on medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through. Serve with a side of yogurt sauce or hummus. These skewers offer a burst of flavor with each bite, making them a favorite for barbecues or family gatherings, offering a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine.
13. Eggplant Fritters
Eggplant Fritters are a tasty and crispy treat that can be served as an appetizer or snack. Slice 2 medium eggplants into rounds and sprinkle with salt to draw out moisture. Pat dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, mix 100g of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Dip the eggplant slices in the batter and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. These fritters are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a simple yet delicious way to enjoy eggplant.
14. Herbed Labneh Dip
Herbed Labneh Dip is a creamy and flavorful spread made from strained yogurt. To prepare, mix 300g of labneh with 2 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs such as mint, dill, and parsley. Add 1 minced garlic clove and a pinch of salt. Drizzle with olive oil before serving. This dip is suitable for pairing with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. Its creamy texture and refreshing taste make it a versatile addition to any meal or gathering, offering a healthy and delicious option for dipping and spreading.
15. Nutty Baklava Rolls
Nutty Baklava Rolls are a sweet pastry filled with nuts and soaked in syrup. To prepare, finely chop 200g of mixed nuts such as walnuts, almonds, and pistachios. Layer 12 sheets of filo pastry, brushing each with melted butter. Spread the nut mixture along one edge and roll tightly. Bake at 180°C for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. While still warm, drizzle with a syrup made from 100g of sugar, 100ml of water, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. These baklava rolls are a delightful treat, offering layers of flaky pastry and crunchy nuts, finished with a sweet syrupy glaze.
16. Pomegranate Tabbouleh
Pomegranate Tabbouleh is a refreshing twist on a traditional salad, adding a burst of sweet and tart flavors. Start by soaking 100g of bulgur wheat in warm water for 15 minutes. Drain and mix with 100g of chopped parsley, 50g of mint leaves, 2 diced tomatoes, and 50g of pomegranate seeds. Dress with the juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. This tabbouleh is not only refreshing but also a nutritious and colorful option for a side dish, bringing a modern twist to a classic recipe with the addition of juicy pomegranate seeds.
17. Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings
Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings are a delicious and sticky treat suitable for gatherings. To prepare, marinate 1kg of chicken wings in a mixture of 100ml of honey, 2 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour. Bake at 200°C for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. These wings are flavorful and satisfying, offering a sweet and savory combination that makes them an nice choice for occasions and casual dinners alike.
18. Date and Nut Stuffed Cookies
Date and Nut Stuffed Cookies, also known as ‘Ma’amoul,’ are a traditional Arabic dessert filled with sweet dates and nuts. To make the dough, mix 500g of semolina with 250g of butter and 100ml of milk. For the filling, blend 200g of dates with 50g of chopped nuts. Shape the dough into small balls, fill them with the date mixture, and flatten slightly. Bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until golden. These cookies are a delightful combination of buttery pastry and sweet filling, offering a taste of tradition and a satisfying treat for any occasion.