Legendary Dishes Middle Eastern Countries Are Famous For

By Scoop Team On Sep 30, 2014

The Middle East is a rich region in culture, history, natural beauty and, well, every other way possible, in our opinion! The region also has a wonderful variety among its countries in dialects, habits and resources. For that, the Middle East offers food that is nothing short of fantastic.

Each country shines with its own national dishes and delicious local produce that just won’t taste as succulent anywhere else in the world. Here’s a brief guide:

Yemen

Raisins

Saltah

Yemen’s answer to Morocco’s tagine is saltah. A delicious stew of brown meat, tomatoes, chilies and lots of veggies and herbs. Make sure to have Yemeni flat bread on the side.

Palestine

Olives & Olive Oil AKA Zaytoun

Available around the world in bottled form, with the Israeli conflict, this stuff has been flying off the shelves. Have a look at Zaytoun for more information and a range of items.

Maklouba (Turnover)

A full meal all in one dish, there are different versions of this dish ranging from vegetarian to a carnivore’s dream. Usually set with a rice base, you will find variations of this dish around the Middle East, but there is no doubt where it’s homeland lies.

Musakhan (Sumac chicken with sauteed onions)

“Usually prepared during the olive oil pressing season to celebrate freshly pressed oil, but you can see it on the menu all year round in family gatherings and parties. “

Morocco

Couscous

Couscous is a staple dish through out the North African region and especially in Morocco. In fact, its popularity crossed seas and oceans and it was voted to be France’s number one favorite dish in 2011, according to Vie Pratique Gourmand magazine. This yummy side dish can be served with meat and vegetable stews or enjoyed as a snack on its own.

Pastilla

“Pastilla is made up of thin layers of pastry with cut up chicken, eggs and, well, yummy goodness. Baked and with an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar, Moroccan will soon be one of your favorite cuisines.”

Chicken Tagine with Preserved Lemons & Olives

There is a huge misconception about Morrocan cuisine that tajine is an actual dish when, in fact, tajine is the pot that these dishes are cooked in. This one in particular has that perfect zesty tang to it, with a sauce produced from the oils and lemon. It is perfectly served with a side of couscous, Northern Africa’s version of rice.

KSA

Kabsa

Kabsa doesn’t need an introduction. It’s probably one of the most well-known dishes across the region. A hearty dish with basmati rice and MANY hunks of meat.

Dates

Arabian Coffee

Syria

Shawerma

Fatayer

Egypt

Koshary

Koshary is one of the most famous Egyptian dishes which contains rice, macaroni and lentils mixed together, topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

Molokheya

This is a traditional Egyptian dish made from from the leaves of the Jute plant and infused with garlic-y goodness. If you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out!