Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant and flavorful land of Lebanon? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the best Lebanese recipes that will transport you to the bustling streets of Beirut.
From aromatic spices to fresh ingredients, Lebanese cuisine is a celebration of bold flavors and rich traditions. In this blog post, we will explore the top Lebanese recipes that will surely impress your family and friends. So, grab your apron and let's dive into the vibrant world of Lebanese cooking!
1. Lebanese Makdous
Lebanese Makdous is a traditional and highly sought-after Lebanese preserve. Made from small baby eggplants stuffed with a flavorful mixture of walnuts, red peppers, chili, and garlic, Makdous offers a delightful combination of savory, sour, and spicy flavors.
The longer it marinates in olive oil, the more sour it becomes. This pickled delicacy can be enjoyed as part of a mezze or paired with various dishes. Makdous is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic taste of Lebanese cuisine.
2. Lebanese Garlic Sauce
Lebanese Garlic Sauce is a creamy and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with Middle Eastern flatbread or fresh vegetables. Made with a generous amount of garlic, this sauce is rich and indulgent.
The addition of vegetable oil and lemon juice creates a thick and creamy texture. It is best to refrigerate the sauce overnight for optimal flavor. Enjoy it as a dip, spread it on sandwiches, or use it as a substitute for mayonnaise. This versatile sauce is a must-try for garlic lovers.
3. Lebanese Nights Dessert
Lebanese Nights Dessert, also known as Layali Lubnan, is a famous and delicious Lebanese dessert that is incredibly easy to make. It consists of a silky semolina pudding base flavored with orange blossom and rose water, topped with a layer of ashta (thick cream), whipped cream, and ground pistachios.
The dessert is then garnished with dry rose petals for an extra touch. It is a fragrant and indulgent treat that is perfect for any occasion.
4. Tabouli
Tabouli is a beloved Lebanese dish that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Made with an abundance of parsley and a touch of bulgur, this authentic recipe is a refreshing and flavorful salad. While cucumbers are not traditionally included, they add a delightful crunch.
The use of fresh mint and optional dill further enhances the taste. The addition of Middle Eastern 7 Spice or a combination of cinnamon and allspice elevates the dish to another level. Tabouli is best enjoyed with its tangy dressing of salt, lemon, and olive oil. This recipe is a true gem that brings joy and nourishment to those who savor it.
5. Lebanese Chicken and Rice
Lebanese Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines aromatic rice, ground meat, shredded chicken, and toasted nuts. The dish is seasoned with Lebanese seven spice, which adds a wonderful balance of spices and a hint of pepper.
The addition of butter to the rice gives it a rich and indulgent taste. The nut topping, made with almonds, pine nuts, and cashews, adds a delightful crunch. This dish is perfect for special occasions or as a comforting meal any time.
6. Lebanese Baklava
Lebanese Baklava is a special dessert enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings. What sets it apart is the aromatic simple syrup flavored with rose water. This recipe uses a pouring method, making it more efficient than traditional buttering of each phyllo layer.
The combination of walnuts, cane sugar, and the unique Lebanese simple syrup creates a delicious treat. It can be stored for up to 2 weeks and freezes well. Clarified butter is recommended for a crispier texture. Overall, Lebanese Baklava is a delightful and flavorful dessert that is worth trying.
7. Lebanese Lamb Rice
Lebanese Lamb Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines ground lamb, rice, pistachios, and fresh mint. The tangy plain yogurt adds a refreshing contrast to the robust flavors of the lamb.
This recipe is easy to prepare and offers a delightful combination of textures and temperatures. It is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Lebanese cuisine.
8. Lebanese Chicken Fatteh
Lebanese Chicken Fatteh is an authentic and flavorful dish that combines shredded chicken, chickpeas, toasted pita bread, and pine nuts in a garlicky yogurt sauce. The combination of textures and flavors is simply amazing, with the crispy pita chips and creamy yogurt sauce complementing the tender chicken and nutty pine nuts.
It's a great way to use up leftover chicken and is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in with friends. This recipe stays true to Lebanese traditions and is easy to make with readily available ingredients. Overall, Lebanese Chicken Fatteh is a must-try dish that will leave you craving for more.
9. Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum)
Lebanese Garlic Sauce, also known as Toum, is a creamy, fluffy, and zingy sauce that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with garlic, salt, egg white, lemon juice, and vegetable or sunflower oil, this sauce is a staple in Lebanese cuisine. It pairs perfectly with chicken shawarma sandwiches and is easy to make in small quantities.
Patience is key when preparing this sauce, as the oil and lemon juice must be slowly added to achieve the desired consistency. Adding ice cubes at the end helps create a fluffy texture. Overall, Lebanese Garlic Sauce is a must-have condiment for garlic lovers and adds a delicious kick to any meal.
10. Lebanese Shepherd's Pie
Lebanese Shepherd's Pie is a delightful and comforting casserole dish that combines perfectly spiced ground beef with creamy mashed potatoes. Topped with breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.
The addition of walnuts, pine nuts, and pomegranate molasses adds a unique and delicious twist to the traditional Shepherd's Pie. It's a must-try for anyone looking to experience the flavors of Lebanese cuisine.
11. Milk Pudding
Milk Pudding, also known as Mahalabia, is a popular Lebanese dessert made with milk, cream of rice (or corn starch), sugar, and rose water. It has a silky, creamy texture and is often garnished with crushed pistachios.
This gluten-free dessert is quick and easy to make, requiring only four ingredients. It can be enjoyed as a sweet treat for dessert, breakfast, or snack.
12. Moghrabieh
Moghrabieh is a delicious Lebanese dish that features dense dough balls similar to gnocchi. This hearty stew is made with chicken, onions, chickpeas, and Middle Eastern spices, resulting in a fragrant and warm meal.
The Moghrabieh balls have a pasta-like texture and taste similar to couscous. Perfect for winter, this dish is a must-try for those looking for a comforting and flavorful Lebanese recipe.
13. Lebanese Coffee – Turkish Coffee
Lebanese Coffee, also known as Turkish Coffee, is a strong and flavorful beverage that is a staple in Lebanese culture. Similar to Arabic Coffee, it is prepared using finely ground dark roasted coffee beans.
Traditionally served in small shots, it can be enjoyed with or without cardamom spice. Cafe Najjar is a popular brand for Lebanese coffee, offering various flavor profiles. With its rich taste and cultural significance, Lebanese Coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers.
14. Best Lebanese Lentil Soup
The Best Lebanese Lentil Soup, also known as Shorbet Adas, is a comforting and nutritious soup made with orange lentils, rice, vegetables, and spices. It is a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is loved for its rich flavors and hearty texture.
This vegan-friendly soup is easy to make and can be adjusted to your preferred consistency. It is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the delicious flavors of Lebanese cuisine.
15. Potato Kibbeh Kamounet Batata
Potato Kibbeh Kamounet Batata is a flavorful Lebanese mashed potato dish. It is seasoned with Kamouneh spices, dried Mediterranean herbs, and fresh mint and basil. The dish is topped with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, giving it a rich and satisfying taste.
This recipe allows for customization, with options to add bulgur wheat, bake it, or top it with cheese or boiled eggs. It is a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed as part of a mezze or alongside other Lebanese dishes.
16. Lebanese Rice with Chicken
Lebanese Rice with Chicken is a classic Middle-Eastern dish that is a staple at family gatherings and special occasions. This flavorful rice dish combines spiced ground beef and rice, topped with toasted nuts and shredded chicken.
It can be served as a side dish or as a stuffing for chicken or turkey. The combination of warm spices and juicy chicken makes it a delicious addition to any meal.
17. Lebanese Lentil Soup
Lebanese Lentil Soup is a hearty and healthy vegan soup that is perfect for Ramadan or any time of the year. Packed with protein and low in fat, this soup is made with red lentils, onions, carrots, and potatoes, and flavored with spices like cumin and 7 spice. It can be enjoyed with or without additional spices, depending on personal preference.
Topped with fried pita bread and caramelized onions, this soup is easy to make and can be customized with different vegetables or greens. It can also be made ahead of time and freezes well. Overall, Lebanese Lentil Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to satisfy.
18. Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup
Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup is a beloved traditional dish that is both vegan and easy to make. With a handful of ingredients, this hearty and healthy soup is the perfect comfort food. Made with red lentils, onions, cumin, and lemon juice, it is a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is especially popular during Ramadan.
The addition of carrots and short-grain rice adds color and heartiness to the soup. This plant-based soup is filling and packed with nutrients, making it a great option for vegans and those looking for meat-free meals. Overall, Lebanese Crushed Lentil Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in just 30 minutes.
19. Lebanese Shaabiyat Dessert
Lebanese Shaabiyat Dessert is a popular Middle Eastern pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and filled with homemade Lebanese Ashta cream. The pastries are crunchy, sweet, and absolutely delicious.
They are often served during Ramadan and are a favorite among dessert lovers. The recipe is easy to follow and the ingredients are readily available. Overall, Shaabiyat Dessert is a must-try Lebanese treat that will impress your guests.
20. Lebanese Lemonade
Lebanese Lemonade is a refreshing and unique twist on traditional lemonade. With the addition of orange blossom water and fresh mint leaves, this drink offers a delightful blend of floral and citrus flavors.
The tartness of the lemons and sweetness of the orange create a perfect balance, making it a great choice for hot summer days. Serve it cold for a truly refreshing experience.
21. Lebanese Red Lentil Soup
Lebanese Red Lentil Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that showcases the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. Made with red lentils, short grain rice, shredded carrots, and onions, this soup is packed with nutrients and protein. The combination of cumin and black pepper adds a delightful Middle Eastern twist to the dish.
Easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes, this vegan soup is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Serve it with warm crusty bread for a complete meal. Overall, Lebanese Red Lentil Soup is a flavorful and satisfying option for those looking to explore Lebanese cuisine.
22. Lebanese Pearl Couscous (Moghrabieh)
Lebanese Pearl Couscous (Moghrabieh) is a flavorful and hearty dish made with pearl couscous, chickpeas, and caramelized onions. The spices, including caraway, cinnamon, and Lebanese 7 spice, add a unique and fragrant taste.
The dish can be made soupier by adding more stock, and the use of vegetable stock enhances the flavors. Overall, it is a delicious and satisfying Lebanese recipe that is worth trying.
23. Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs
The Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are a delicious and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Lebanese cuisine. Made with ground beef, fresh parsley, diced onion, and a combination of spices, these kebabs are bursting with Middle Eastern flavors.
Grilled to perfection, they are juicy and tender, making them an ideal choice for a summer meal. Served with homemade naan bread, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables, these kebabs are a delightful addition to any barbecue or outdoor gathering.
24. Lebanese Ful Medames
Lebanese Ful Medames is a popular Middle Eastern breakfast dish made with cooked fava beans, garlic lemon dressing, and served with fresh vegetables and pita bread. It is a healthy and flavorful vegetarian option that can be prepared in less than 20 minutes.
The dish offers a smooth or lightly smashed chunky consistency, and can be enjoyed with a drizzle of olive oil, chopped tomatoes, and fresh parsley. Overall, Lebanese Ful Medames is a delicious and satisfying dish that is worth trying.
25. Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini
Lebanese Stuffed Zucchini, also known as Kousa Mahshi, is a classic Middle Eastern dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. The zucchinis are hollowed out and filled with a delicious mixture of ground beef, rice, and Middle Eastern spices.
This dish can be made with a tomato base or with a yogurt sauce, offering different variations to suit different tastes. It is a popular and versatile recipe that showcases the vibrant flavors of Lebanese cuisine.
26. Layali Lubnan
Layali Lubnan, also known as Lebanese Nights Dessert, is a traditional and delicious Arabic dessert that originates from Lebanon.
This milk, sugar, and semolina pudding is flavored with rose or orange blossom water and topped with Ashta Cream and toasted chopped pistachios. It is a true taste of Lebanese cuisine that is easy to prepare and absolutely amazing in flavor.
27. Lebanese Shish Lamb Kebabs
Lebanese Shish Lamb Kebabs are a mouthwatering dish made with tender lamb marinated in a flavorful blend of pomegranate molasses, oregano, salt, and black pepper. The addition of pomegranate molasses adds a unique and delicious twist to the kebabs.
Serve them with hand-cut chips, rice, and a refreshing salad like fattoush or tabbouleh for a complete meal. These kebabs are perfect for grilling and are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Don't miss out on trying this flavorful Lebanese recipe!
28. Manakish
Manakish is a delicious Lebanese flatbread topped with a variety of toppings, such as Za'atar and cheese. It is commonly enjoyed for breakfast and served with fresh vegetables and tea.
The dough is soft and the toppings are flavorful, making it a satisfying and tasty dish. Whether you prefer cheese-only, Za'atar-only, or a combination of both, Manakish is a must-try Lebanese recipe.
29. Hashweh
Hashweh is a flavorful Lebanese dish that combines vermicelli rice with ground lamb or minced beef. The warm spices, pine nuts, and fresh parsley add depth and texture to the dish.
It can be served as a side dish or used as a stuffing for vegetables or meat pies. With its quick cooking time of under 30 minutes, Hashweh is a convenient and delicious option for a weeknight meal.
30. Lebanese Spinach Stew
Lebanese Spinach Stew is a hearty and nutritious dish made with simple and inexpensive ingredients. It can be served with beef or made vegan with chickpeas. The stew is made with frozen spinach, cilantro, garlic, and pine nuts, simmered in chicken broth or water.
It is traditionally served with Lebanese Rice or other grains. This stew is a comforting and easy meal that can be made in 30 minutes with minimal prep. It stores well and can be enjoyed for several days.
31. Kibbeh Bil Sanieh
Kibbeh Bil Sanieh is a delicious Lebanese dish that consists of layers of spiced ground beef and nuts sandwiched between two layers of fine uncooked kibbeh mixture.
It is then baked to perfection, resulting in a comforting and flavorful meal. This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later use. Serve it with plain yogurt and Lebanese salads for a complete and satisfying meal.
32. Lebanese Bean Stew
Lebanese Bean Stew is a flavorful and comforting one-pot meal that is perfect for a family weeknight dinner. Made with simple ingredients like chicken, tomatoes, and white beans, this stew is rich in taste and easy to prepare.
It can also be made ahead of time and frozen for future meals. Serve it with Lebanese rice or other grains for a satisfying and hearty meal.
33. Lebanese Fruit Cocktail
The Lebanese Fruit Cocktail is a delightful and refreshing dessert that captures the essence of Lebanese street food. It features a medley of freshly cut fruits, including bananas, peaches, kiwis, apples, mangoes, and pineapple, blended with strawberries to create a vibrant base juice.
The cocktail is then topped with Ashta cream, a clotted cream infused with rose water, and garnished with raw walnuts, crushed pistachios, and honey. The combination of flavors and textures is simply delightful, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of Lebanese cuisine.
34. Lebanese Spinach Pies
Lebanese Spinach Pies, also known as fatayer, are a delicious Middle Eastern treat. Made with a homemade dough and filled with a flavorful spinach, herb, and lemon mixture, these pies are baked until golden and puffed. They can also be stuffed with other variations such as spiced ground beef or cheese.
The recipe is vegan-friendly and can be made with store-bought dough for convenience. These pies can be enjoyed fresh or frozen for later. Overall, Lebanese Spinach Pies are a must-try dish for those seeking a taste of authentic Lebanese cuisine.
35. Lebanese Cheese Rolls
Lebanese Cheese Rolls, also known as Rakakat Jibneh, are a popular Lebanese appetizer that combines crispy spring roll sheets with gooey Akawi cheese. The rolls are filled with a mixture of shredded cheese, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
They can be fried or baked until golden and are best enjoyed hot. These delicious rolls are a must-try for cheese lovers looking to explore Lebanese cuisine.
