9 Best Mezzes to Try in Lebanon (2023)
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9 Best Mezzes to Try in Lebanon
Lebanon is probably my favourite country for food in the world – and I know I’m not the only one. My whole family loved the Mezzes we tried here, so much so that we keep coming back!
Lebanon is a country known for its delicious and varied cuisine, and mezzes, or small plates, are a big part of this. Whether you are dining out at a restaurant or enjoying a meal at home with friends and family, mezzes are a must-try.
Here are some of the best mezzes to try in Lebanon.
Best Healthy Mezzes in Lebanese Cuisine
1. Hummus
Hummus is a classic mezze that is made with mashed chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, and garlic. It is a creamy and satisfying dip that is often served with pita bread for dipping. In Lebanon, hummus is often topped with extra virgin olive oil, parsley, and pine nuts for added flavor and texture.
2. Baba ghanoush
Baba ghanoush is another popular mezze that is made with grilled eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It has a smoky flavor and a creamy texture, and is often served with pita bread or vegetables for dipping.
In Lebanon, it is common to sprinkle baba ghanoush with sumac (a tangy spice) and pomegranate seeds for added flavor and color.
3. Falafel
Falafel is a popular street food in Lebanon and throughout the Middle East. It is made with ground chickpeas and spices, formed into balls or patties, and deep-fried until crispy.
It is often served in a pita pocket with lettuce, tomato, and tahini sauce. In Lebanon, falafel is a must-try and can be found at many street stalls and restaurants.
4. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a refreshing mezze that is made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and mint, mixed with bulgur wheat and dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. It is a light and flavorful dish that is often served as part of a larger mezze platter or as a side dish.
In Lebanon, tabbouleh is a popular choice for a healthy and tasty mezze.
5. Fattoush
Fattoush is a salad mezze that is made with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and mint, mixed with fried or toasted pita chips and dressed with a lemon and sumac dressing. It is a satisfying and flavorful dish that is often served as part of a larger mezze platter.
In Lebanon, fattoush is a popular choice for a refreshing and delicious mezze.
6. Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular street food in Lebanon that is made with marinated meat, such as chicken or lamb, that is cooked on a spit and sliced off to order. It is often served in a pita pocket with lettuce, tomato, and tahini sauce. In Lebanon, shawarma is a must-try and can be found at many street stalls and restaurants.
7. Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a popular mezze that is made with ground lamb or beef, mixed with bulgur wheat and spices, and formed into balls or patties. It is often fried or baked, and served with a side of yogurt or salad. In Lebanon, kibbeh is a common mezze and can be found at many restaurants and homes.
8. Mouttabal
Mouttabal is a delicious and flavorful mezze that is a must-try while in Lebanon. It is made with grilled or roasted eggplant that is mashed and mixed with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and spices. It has a creamy and smoky flavor, and is often served with pita bread or vegetables for dipping.
Mouttabal is a traditional Lebanese dish that is enjoyed by many people in the country, and is a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture. It is also a tasty and satisfying mezze that can be enjoyed as part of a larger meal or as a snack, and is a healthy and nutritious option made with wholesome ingredients.
9. Labneh
Labneh is a versatile mezze that is a must-try while in Lebanon. It is made by straining yogurt to remove the whey, resulting in a thick and creamy cheese-like consistency. Labneh is often flavored with herbs, spices, and olive oil, and can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or topping.
It is a traditional Lebanese dish that is enjoyed by many people in the country, and is a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture. It is also a tasty and satisfying mezze that can be enjoyed in many different ways, and is a healthy and nutritious option made with yogurt.
What are the Best Mezzes in Lebanon?
Lebanon is a country with a rich and varied cuisine, and mezzes are an integral part of this. From hummus and baba ghanoush and fattoush, there are many delicious and flavorful mezzes to try in Lebanon.
Whether you are dining out at a restaurant or enjoying a meal at home with friends and family, these mezzes are sure to delight your taste buds and provide a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Lebanese Mezzes FAQ
A mezze, or meze, is a small plate or dish that is typically served as part of a larger meal or platter in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Mezzes can include a wide range of dishes, from dips and spreads to salads and grilled meats, and are often served as appetizers or starters.
You can try mezzes in Lebanon at many restaurants, cafes, and street stalls. Mezzes are a common and popular choice in Lebanon, and can be found in many different settings, from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes and street food stalls.
Yes, you can make mezzes at home. Many mezzes, such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh, are easy to make and can be enjoyed as part of a larger meal or as a snack. You can find recipes for these and other mezzes online or in cookbooks, and experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique mezze dishes.
