One of the most iconic dishes of Lebanese cuisine is the Mezze platter, a variety of small dishes typically served as appetizers. These dishes often include hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, falafel, and kibbeh. Another popular dish is the national dish of Lebanon, called Kofta, a type of meatball made of ground beef or lamb mixed with spices and herbs. Another traditional dish is the mixed grill platter, which includes a variety of meats such as lamb, chicken, and kebabs, often served with sides of rice or bulgur. A staple of Lebanese cuisine is also the use of yogurt, either as a condiment or as a base for dips and sauces, such as in the popular dish labneh. Lebanese cuisine also features a variety of seafood dishes, including the famous dish of Stuffed Squid. Lebanese cuisine is often paired with the country's famous wine and arak, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from grapes.
Tabbouleh is a traditional Lebanese dish made with parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. It is a flavorful and healthy salad that is often served as a side dish or as part of a mezze platter. The key to making a good tabbouleh is to use fresh ingredients and to chop the parsley and tomatoes very finely. The dressing, made with lemon juice, olive oil, and spices, gives the salad a tangy and refreshing flavor.
Baba ganoush is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from eggplant, tahini, garlic, lemon juice and olive oil. Served with pita bread or crackers, it's a delicious appetizer or side dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Lebanese Lamb Schwarma is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made with marinated lamb, wrapped in a pita bread and topped with tahini sauce, tomatoes, and onions. The dish is usually served with sumac, a Middle Eastern spice made from the dried berries of the sumac bush, giving it a unique tangy flavor. It's a popular street food in Lebanon and can also be made with chicken or beef.