Fresh, wholesome, healthy, rich, aromatic- it's no wonder that the past decade has seen the Arabic cuisine's global profile skyrocketing. Before anything, the arabs follow "tafathalo", which means "fo me the honour". This is an invitation to come to the table. Sharing a meal with others is an honoured tradition in the Arabic world and an expression of hospitalality. Interesting isn't it? The Arabic cuisine is mainly a combination of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines. Lot of other cuisines like the Spanish, Italian, French, Greek, Turkish and Persian cuisines had an impact on the Arabic Cuisine.
Some ingredients are very common in almost all the Arabic dishes, like Cinnamon, curry powder, fish, garlic, lamb, mild to hot sauces, mint, onion, rice, saffron, sesame, yoghurt, spices, tea, thyme, turmeric, variety of fruits and vegetables, like citrus fruits, cucumbers, aubergines, lettuce, tomatoes, green peppers, green, zucchini and parsley to name a few.
The essential concept in arabic cuisine is hospitality. Tea is the favorite hot drink. Coffee could be included as well since the Arabic coffee called "Gava" is very famous and loved in arab countries like Saudi Arabia. Some Arabic dishes need a lot of time for preparation, such as stuffed grape leaves, stuffed zucchini, cabbage or green peppers. Muslim Arabs don't consume pork meat and alcohol. Though, many arab countries like Iraq, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria, sell pork meat and a variety of liquors since the Christian Arabs consume these products. The Arabs consume only those meat products that are "Halal", i.e., the meat products that have been ritually slaughtered.
Let's have a look at some common elements of the arabic cookery.
1. Bread- Bread is highly regarded in the arab world. Even is a scrap of bread is spot on the street, it would be picked up and pit aside so that nobody stamps on it.
2. Dairy- Yoghurt made from cow, sheep or goat's milk is used in several ways and in several dishes. It's diluted with water as a refreshing drink. It's drained and thickened as a condiment. It is also a key ingredient in arabic dishes.
3. Meat- Lamb is the most used meat in most arab countries. The most exquisite dish an Arabic house can serve is baby lamb stuffed with spiced rice.
4. Fruits- Fresh and dried fruits and nuts are widely used. Pomegranates, lemons, dates, apples, figs, oranges, apricots, mangoes, almonds and pistachios are the most used ones.
5. Grains- In all the arab countries, rice is staple. It is cooked in a number of ways and is served alongside meat, fish and stewed vegetables. Wheat is another staple used primarily in pastries and bakery. Bulgur is also a favorite grain.
6. Oil- Olive oil is the most used oil for cooking and dressing. This is produced in many arab countries like Lebanon, Syria, Palestine and parts of North Africa. In places where Olive oil is scarce, sesame oil is used.
7. Salads- These are available in all the meals. They usually use simple freash dressing of lemon or salt and pepper and Olive oil.
8. Spices-. They are the essence of the Arabic cuisine. Cinnamon, allspice, anise seeds, nutmeg, sumac, cardamom, cloves, cumin, caraway, black pepper, saffron and turmeric are the most commonly used ones.
9. Vegetables- They are used in the raw as well as the cooked form. The favorites are aubergines, zucchini, cauliflowers, okra, green beans and spinach. Variety of peas and lentils are also used.
10. Mazza- These are appetizers or side dishes made of assortment of little tidbits in small plates. They typically include salads, grains, pulses and vegetables.
In the Middle East, food a special place in social interactions, especially in following relogious tradions.
Let's now see the specialties of some Arab countries.
1. Egypt- In Egypt, the famous dishes are Kushari, Melokhia, fattah and fool medammas also called falafel.
2. Iraq- The Iraq cuisine is known for its sophistication. Some popular dishes here are Masgoof, Dolmah, Quzi, Kibbet Seniyyeh, Kibbet Fried, Jajeek, Klaichah.
3. Lebanon- The Mazza is very popular here. Some great dishes of this land are Kibbeh Nayeh, Tabouleh, Hummus Bi Tahina, Baba Ghannouj, Ghrybe and Ma'mool.
4. Morocco- Some exclusive dishes from this place are Harira, Couscous, Tajine and Bistilla.
5. Palestine- Here the famous dishes are Mjaddara, Kunafa, Msaqa'a, Qatayef, Fattoush, Maklubit Betinjan, Musakhan, Mansaf, and Saffron Rice.
6. Syria- Some popular dishes are Maqluba, Kibbeh, Maamuniya, Baklawa.
7. The Gulf States- Some great dishes here are Rubiyan and Rice, Makboos Samak, Harees, Custard with cardamom rose water.
8. Tunisa- Harisa, Maraqat al-Safarjal, Brik are some really good dishes.
9. Yemen- Batata Yakhini, Z'hug, Hilbah, Sayadiah, Basboosa, Saltah and Mohalabia are famous dishes. Yemen is also famous for Mocha coffee.
Well, looks like even a bite or a sip from these dishes would be a heavenly experience!!!
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