Category: Middle East/Central Asia

Middle Eastern and Central Asian recipes, food, and articles

Saffron: Everything You Need to Know About the World’s Most Expensive Spice

Saffron, known as the “golden spice,” is a highly prized ingredient in cooking. Derived from the Crocus sativus flower or saffron crocus, saffron has a rich history and a distinct and haunting flavor, color, and aroma.
Shakshuka – a savory & spicy one-pan meal from Israel

Shakshuka is a simple, easy-to-make, one-pan meal of eggs poached in a savory, spicy tomato and pepper sauce. It’s just as tasty for breakfast as it is for dinner, and makes a satisfying dish any time of day.
Royal Kebabs from Jordan

Perfectly seasoned beef, rolled in roasted eggplant, drizzled with a savory and spicy tomato sauce, and topped with crunchy pine nuts and aromatic mint leaves, make this Jordanian recipe for Royal Kebabs a true crowd pleaser!
Turkish Stuffed Apricots

Beautiful Turkish dried apricots are soaked, candied with lemon scented syrup, stuffed with rich cream, and garnished with crunchy pistachios to make the perfect, lightly sweet one bite treat! Serve them after dinner, as an appetizer, for afternoon tea, or even for breakfast.
Afghan Mantu – savory beef & onion filled dumplings

Seasoned beef and onions, tucked away in a tender wrapper, and topped with an herby yogurt sauce make this delicious recipe for Afghan mantu, or dumplings, a perfect crowd pleaser for your next party!
Zhoug – a fresh and spicy sauce from Yemen

Zhoug, a vibrant green cilantro based sauce from Yemen, is both fresh and fiery. It’s layered with flavor, from earthy cumin, to aromatic coriander, to bright orange zest. Put a dollop on eggs, spread a bit on a sandwich, or use it as a dip, and enjoy the zingy and aromatic flavors of the Middle…
Afghan Noodle Soup, also known as Aush

Loaded with spices, filled with meat and pasta, and enriched with cream, this divine soup will brighten even the coolest of autumn days or dreariest of winter nights.
Afghan Bolani – veggie stuffed flatbread

Savory veggies stuffed inside a crispy, yet tender flatbread – yes, please! This recipe from Afghanistan is a fun and flavor filled street food called bolani. Serve them up as a light entree, side for a soup or salad, or pack them up for lunch or a picnic.
Chelow with Tahdig, or Persian Style Rice with a Crispy Crust

Crispy, crunchy, and rich, this luxurious Persian rice dish is perfect for a special occasion or celebration.