The Best Authentic Lebanese Recipes
By Mediterranean Living
Updated April 6, 2023
Looking for tasty and traditional Lebanese recipes? In this article, we will explore some authentic Lebanese recipes that are not only delicious but also align with the healthy principles of the Mediterranean diet.
Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its diverse and flavorful dishes that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The cuisine has a long history and is influenced by the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. From traditional mezze platters to hearty stews and aromatic grilled meats, Lebanese recipes offer a unique and tantalizing culinary experience.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, these Lebanese recipes are sure to impress and satisfy your taste buds. So let’s dive into the world of Lebanese cuisine and discover some mouthwatering dishes that you can easily prepare at home.
Day of Eating in Lebanon
Lebanese cuisine is a tapestry of various cultures and traditions, with dishes that are packed with flavor and nutrition. If you’re curious about what Lebanese people typically eat in a day, here’s a breakdown of some of the meals and snacks you might find in a Lebanese household:
Breakfast
In Lebanon, breakfast is often a light meal consisting of tea or coffee, fresh bread, and jam or cheese. A popular Lebanese breakfast dish is mana’eesh, a type of flatbread that is topped with za’atar (a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac) and olive oil. Other popular breakfast items include eggs, olives, and labneh (strained yogurt).
Lunch
Lunch is the main meal of the day in Lebanon, and it’s typically a more substantial meal than breakfast. Lebanese lunch dishes often consist of mezze platters, which are shared appetizers that feature a variety of small dishes. Some common mezze items include hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves. For the main course, Lebanese people might have shawarma (spit-roasted meat), kebab (grilled meat skewers), or a hearty stew like fasoulia (green bean stew) or kibbeh nayyeh (raw meat salad).
Dinner
Dinner in Lebanon is usually lighter than lunch, and it might consist of leftovers from lunch or a simple meal like soup or salad. A popular Lebanese dinner dish is fattoush, a salad that features fresh vegetables, herbs, and crispy pita bread.
Snacks
Lebanese people also enjoy snacking throughout the day, with many delicious options to choose from. One popular snack is “hummus”, a dip made with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice, which is often served with pita bread or vegetables. Another favorite snack is “foul mudammas”, which is made with fava beans, garlic, and lemon juice.
In conclusion, Lebanese cuisine offers a diverse range of dishes that can be enjoyed throughout the day. From hearty breakfasts to light lunches, flavorful dinners, and delicious snacks, Lebanese food is sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you are looking to try traditional Lebanese recipes or simply looking for inspiration for your next meal, the rich flavors and textures of Lebanese cuisine are sure to impress.
How to Make Labneh
Labneh is a popular and versatile ingredient in Lebanese cuisine, often used as a spread, dip, or as a topping for dishes. It is made from strained yogurt, which gives it a thick, creamy texture and tangy flavor. In this section, we will explore how to make labneh at home, using a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 quart of plain yogurt (full-fat is recommended)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Olive oil
- Optional: herbs or spices, such as thyme or za’atar, for flavoring
Instructions:
- Line a fine-mesh strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt and salt together until well combined.
- Pour the yogurt mixture into the cheesecloth-lined strainer, and wrap the cheesecloth around the yogurt, forming a ball.
- Place the bowl with the strainer and yogurt in the refrigerator and let it strain for at least 12 hours, or overnight.
Once the labneh has strained and thickened, remove it from the cheesecloth and transfer it to a serving dish. - Drizzle the labneh with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs or spices, if desired.
- Serve the labneh as a spread or dip, with pita bread or vegetables.
Making labneh at home is easy and a great way to add authentic Lebanese flavors to your meals. You can experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor, and use the labneh in a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads and more. Try this simple recipe and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness of homemade labneh.
Our 8 Favorite Lebanese Recipes
Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its flavorful and diverse dishes that are loved by people around the world. In this section, we will share our 8 favorite Lebanese recipes that are easy to make and bursting with authentic flavors.
Kousa Bil Laban is a traditional Lebanese dish made from zucchini, yogurt, and garlic. It is a creamy and flavorful dish that is often served as a main course.
These savory pies are made from a mixture of spinach, onions, and spices, wrapped in a flaky pastry dough. They are perfect as a snack or appetizer.
3. Basboosa
Basboosa is a popular Lebanese dessert made from semolina, coconut, and honey syrup. It has a rich and sweet taste and is often served with tea or coffee.
Fattoush salad is a colorful and healthy dish made from fresh vegetables, herbs, and pita bread. It is often topped with a tangy dressing made from lemon juice and olive oil.
This seven spice blend combines pepper, allspice, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, fenugreek, and coriander for a deliciously aromatic seasoning.
6 . Tabouli
Tabouli is another traditional Lebanese salad made from parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. It is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is perfect for summer.
This hearty and healthy breakfast cereal is made from bulgur wheat, milk, and honey. It is a great way to start your day and will keep you feeling full and energized.
Hummus is a classic Lebanese dip made from chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice. It is creamy, tangy, and delicious, and is often served as a dip or a spread.
These 8 Lebanese recipes are just a sample of the delicious and authentic dishes that make up Lebanese cuisine. They are easy to make and are perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party with friends. So, try them out and discover the rich and diverse flavors of Lebanese food!
Bill Bradley, R.D. says:
Winter LeBlanc says:
Bill Bradley, R.D. says: