Middle Eastern cuisine, like most cuisines, encompasses a variety of different foods, flavours and styles. Popular classics, such as hummus and falafel from Palestine are just the tip of the iceberg. In fact, the term ‘Middle Eastern’ is quite misleading as it is so broad, and tends to overlook the diversity that exists within each region.  For example, Mediterranean food is never just seafood and Asian food is more than just noodles and stir fries.

When we say ‘Middle Eastern’, we can be describing foods from a number of different countries and regions.  Though the exact countries are somewhat difficult to determine, as they have changed over time, those currently on the list include: Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Palestine, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen, to name a few.  And needless to say, each of these countries have their own styles and traditional dishes that make them unique. Furthermore, the dishes vary greatly when comparing one region to another, for example, the GCC Arab cooking style is heavily influenced by Indian cultures and cuisines, whereas the Levant Arab are more influenced by their Mediterranean neighbours.

Despite these differences however, there are a couple of things these regions do have in common, namely their frequent use of spices, nuts, oils and yogurt. Other commonalities include their use of mutton, lamb or goat as a main source of animal protein, and their main staples being rice or bread.

Looking back at the history, it was through early civilization that Middle Eastern cuisine came to be.  The areas listed were among the first to raise farm animals and grow plants and crops. Furthermore, the regions’ strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa, created the perfect hub for the exchange of goods and culture as international trade expanded through time. Spices, ingredients, and as a result, new dishes were all exchanged, shaping the food of the Middle East and its surrounding areas.

What is your take on Middle Eastern cuisine? Please share in the comments!