Andrea AbbondanzaLebanese cuisine is well known for its unique flavors and fragrant spices, but what makes it truly special is the classic appetizers.
So, what are the most popular Lebanese appetizers? Whether you are looking to tantalize your taste buds with the savory flavors of falafel or simply want something to snack on while enjoying a meal, there are plenty of options available. Let’s find out more options in this article!
7 Lebanese Appetizers: Mouth-Watering Starters
What are the most popular Lebanese appetizers? There are countless answers to this question. We have compiled the seven popular ones for you. Check them out!
Falafel
Falafel is a traditional Lebanese dish made with ground chickpeas or fava beans, herbs, and spices. They are formed into balls or patties and then deep-fried until golden brown. Usually, it’s served with tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, and fresh vegetables on the side.
Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a delicious, healthy salad dish consisting of cracked wheat (bulgur), fresh parsley, mint, tomatoes, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is usually served cold or at room temperature and is a refreshing appetizer to any meal.
Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a traditional dish made with a mixture of ground meat, crushed wheat, onions, and spices formed into patties, cigars, or other shapes. It can be fried or baked, depending on the recipe. The result is a flavorful, savory, and nutritious dish.
Mutabal
Mutabal is a delicious dip made with roasted eggplants, tahini, garlic, and olive oil mashed together until it is creamy and smooth. It’s traditionally served with fresh pita bread or flatbreads.
Avocado Hummus
Lebanese Avocado Hummus is a delicious, creamy dip made with creamy avocados, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and spices. It’s incredibly quick and easy to make — simply mash the avocado and mix it with the other ingredients. It’s usually served with pita bread.
Sambousek
Sambousek is a delicious savory pastry filled with spicy meats like beef, lamb, and chicken. The traditional Mediterranean filling consists of meat, onion, toasted pine nuts, and cheese. They are pan-fried or deep-fried until golden brown and are widely served during Ramadan.
Spinach Fatayer
Fatayer is traditionally made with a flaky, unleavened dough filled with ingredients like minced meat, cheese, and onions. However, to make spinach fatayer, the meat is replaced with spinach. The dough is then baked or fried to create a crispy and delicious snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most iconic Lebanese food?
The most iconic, widely-known Lebanese food is Lebanese Shawarma, a dish made from thin slices of either lamb or chicken, cooked on a large skewer, and then served on fried pita bread with a variety of sauces.
What are Lebanese starters called?
Lebanese call starters as Mezze.
What is the best Lebanese food to try?
You can try some of the most popular Lebanese food, such as Hummus, Baba Ganoush, Maamoul, Fattoush, Kanafeh, and Manakis.
Conclusion
All in all, there are many incredible Lebanese appetizers for you to choose from. The country has such a rich history, and it reflects in its cuisine.
Whether you’re in the mood for an old-world classic like hummus or something more modern like falafel, try these popular Lebanese dishes with some Lebanese foods and enjoy the diverse flavors and textures that make them so beloved around the world.
A Lebanese trip down memory lane awaits; get out there, explore this delicious cuisine, and have fun!
