Baklava, a sweet and flaky pastry layered with nuts and drenched in syrup, has a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. Originating in the ancient kitchens of the Levant, baklava's roots can be traced back to the Assyrians, who were believed to have baked thin layers of dough with nuts and honey as early as the 8th century B.C. Over time, the recipe evolved and spread throughout the Middle East, the Balkans, and the Mediterranean, with each region adding its own unique twist. Today, baklava is celebrated worldwide as a symbol of indulgence and tradition, offering a layered, textured, sticky bite that can't be beaten.
This no-churn cardamom ice cream is so easy to make, it's criminal. Cardamom, a spice with roots in India and the Middle East, imparts a warm, aromatic taste to the ice cream, making it a perfect balance of sweet and spiced.
Making your own labneh is a breeze! Labneh is a very common Middle Eastern dip, often eaten for breakfast, as an appetizer, or as part of a mezze spread. Much like yogurt, but thicker and creamier due to the removed whey. All you need is a cheesecloth, some thick greek yogurt, and some time.
Zhug, this hot sauce, hailing from Yemen, is packed with zingy and fiery flavors thanks to the addition of earthy cumin, fragrant cardamom, nutty coriander, and fresh herbs. Also known as sahawiq, bisbas, or maboj across the Middle East, it has become an integral part of Israeli national cuisine thanks to the Yemenite Jewish community.
This sweet semolina cake with rhubarb and lemon is a stand alone showstopper, but when paired with some delicate cardamom ice cream you won't want it any other way.
Most people are familiar with za'atar, but dukkah, a spice blend originating from Egypt, shouldn't be underestimated. Fragrant and full of flavor, this spice blend has strong notes of anise which has the power to amplify your labneh, hummus, meat and fish, and can even be eaten alone - with some olive oil and warm bread.
Celeriac Steaks are a super simple way to swap out the regular star of a steak dinner without missing any of it! Top it off with some punchy salsa verde and you've got yourself a winner!