Middle Eastern food has captivated food lovers around the world for centuries through its use of rich spices, aromatic herbs, and fresh ingredients. The cuisine’s origins are rooted in a diverse region that spans from the Mediterranean to the Persian Gulf, and each country has its own unique take on classic dishes. Today, some innovative food bloggers are putting their own twists on traditional recipes, creating exciting new flavor combinations and using modern techniques. If you’re a fan of bold and flavorful cuisine, here are a few you’re sure to enjoy.
Baked Quinoa Black Bean Falafel
Falafel is a kind of fritter enjoyed in countries all over the Middle East. Traditionally, it’s made with a mixture of ground chickpeas and herbs and served inside pita bread with hummus and vegetables. This recipe puts a Latin American-inspired spin on things by replacing chickpeas with black beans and quinoa. Add a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
Roasted Sweet Potato Hummus
Chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil are considered to be quintessential components of quality hummus, but sweet potato and cinnamon? Not so much. While there are many unusual varieties of store-bought hummus available today, this recipe keeps things simple with the addition of a few basic ingredients that work surprisingly well with their traditional counterparts.
Green Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a stew served all over North Africa and the Middle East. It’s traditionally prepared by poaching eggs inside a spicy sauce of peppers and tomatoes, which give it a rich, red color. This version replaces all of the red ingredients with bright green Brussels sprouts, zucchini, and baby spinach. The result is a hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy at breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
