Middle Eastern cooking is built on bold spices, fresh ingredients, and time-honored techniques. These 15 recipes bring together flavors that have been passed down for generations. From rich stews to spiced grilled meats and fresh salads, every dish is packed with tradition. With simple ingredients and familiar methods, making these meals at home is easier than you think.
Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip
Roasted eggplant blends with tomatoes, garlic, and warm spices for a smooth, smoky dip. This recipe takes about 40 minutes, using cumin, paprika, and olive oil for depth. The eggplant stays tender while the tomatoes add sweetness. It’s a classic Middle Eastern dish that pairs well with bread or vegetables.
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Middle Eastern Spiced Butternut Squash Pickles
Butternut squash pickles in a brine of vinegar, warm spices, and garlic for a tangy, spiced side. This recipe takes about an hour, using cinnamon, coriander, and cloves for a balanced flavor. The squash stays slightly firm while the spices add depth. It’s a unique way to preserve and serve vegetables.
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Middle Eastern Spiced Cauliflower Soup With Caramelized Onions And Raisins
Creamy cauliflower soup simmers with caramelized onions, warm spices, and sweet raisins. This recipe takes about 45 minutes, using cumin, coriander, and garlic for extra depth. The cauliflower stays smooth while the onions add a touch of sweetness. It’s a comforting dish with a mix of bold and subtle flavors.
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Circassian Fried Cheese With A Middle-Eastern Field Salad
Crispy fried cheese pairs with a fresh salad of greens, herbs, and a light dressing. This recipe takes about 30 minutes, using sumac, lemon, and olive oil for brightness. The cheese stays crispy on the outside and soft inside while the salad adds freshness. It’s a simple dish with a balance of textures.
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Eggplant Shakshuka
Soft eggplant simmers in a rich tomato sauce with poached eggs and warm spices. This recipe takes about 45 minutes, using onions, garlic, and cumin for bold flavor. The eggs stay runny while the sauce thickens into a hearty base. It’s a comforting dish that’s great with bread for dipping.
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Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner
Salmon bakes with warm Moroccan spices, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of olive oil. This recipe takes about 35 minutes, using paprika, cumin, and lemon for a rich flavor. The fish stays flaky while the vegetables caramelize in the oven. It’s an easy, flavorful meal that’s full of tradition.
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Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad
Soft pearl couscous mixes with roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and a lemon dressing. This recipe takes about 30 minutes, using olive oil and warm spices for extra flavor. The couscous stays fluffy while the vegetables add depth. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that can be a side or main.
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Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Ground chicken blends with warm spices and herbs before grilling to a juicy finish. This recipe takes about 30 minutes, using garlic, cumin, and coriander for depth. The kofta stays tender while the grill adds a smoky char. It’s a protein-packed dish that pairs well with rice or flatbread.
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Jerusalem Kugel
Thin noodles bake with caramelized sugar, black pepper, and eggs for a sweet and savory kugel. This recipe takes about an hour, using butter, oil, and cinnamon for warmth. The noodles stay soft while the sugar forms a slightly crisp crust. It’s a dish with deep flavor and a rich history.
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Hummus With Crispy Chickpeas
Smooth hummus blends with tahini, garlic, and lemon, topped with crunchy spiced chickpeas. This recipe takes about 25 minutes, using cumin and olive oil for extra depth. The hummus stays creamy while the chickpeas add texture. It’s a classic dish that works as a dip or spread.
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Green Shakshuka
Soft poached eggs simmer in a sauce of wilted greens, herbs, and Middle Eastern spices. This recipe takes about 35 minutes, using spinach, cilantro, and cumin for a fresh flavor. The eggs stay tender while the greens add an earthy taste. It’s a lighter twist on the traditional shakshuka.
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Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Juicy turkey kofta fills warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy tahini sauce. This recipe takes about 40 minutes, using garlic, cumin, and coriander for flavor. The kofta stays moist while the tahini adds richness. It’s a filling sandwich with bold Middle Eastern spices.
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Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers
Tender chicken cooks in an aromatic sauce with sweet peppers, tomatoes, and Middle Eastern spices. This recipe takes about 35 minutes, using paprika, cumin, and garlic for depth. The chicken stays juicy while the peppers add a natural sweetness. It’s a flavorful dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
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Israeli Salad
Fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs mix with olive oil and lemon for a light, refreshing salad. This recipe takes about 15 minutes, using parsley, sumac, and red onion for extra brightness. The vegetables stay crisp while the dressing adds tang. It’s a simple side dish that pairs well with any meal.
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Pomegranate Chicken With Walnuts
Chicken simmers in a rich pomegranate sauce with walnuts and warm spices. This recipe takes about an hour, using cinnamon, garlic, and honey for depth. The chicken stays tender while the sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast. It’s a bold dish that’s full of Middle Eastern tradition.
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