It is important to see who the author of the cookbook is as it helps gauge the authenticity of the recipes. A spice blend that consists of za’atar (wild thyme), sesame seeds, dried sumac, and salt, most commonly used as a seasoning or garnish.

The Lebanese Kitchenbrings together more than 500 recipes, ranging from light, tempting mezes to rich and hearty main courses. Moreover, Al-Faqih’s signature classics are also showcased that brings up a new breath to the readers. With step-by-step instructions accompanied by full-color photographs, every home cook will find Lebanese food is so accessible and flavorful. Meaty eggplant (aubergine) and sweet-and-sour pomegranate make a delicious pair here, with toasted pine nuts offering
a finishing crunch. Cooking at home has once more become about eating more vegetables, pulses and grains. At first, it was a challenge – my husband especially associated being vegetarian with being poor. We have begun to realise that we simply don’t need a lot of meat to eat well or feel satisfied. – Salma Hage

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This typical Lebanese dessert is creamy and indulgent. Though often made with vermicelli, I like to use bread crumbs for a different texture. The orange flower water custard is beautifully offset by golden crumbs. Salma’s eating habits have come full-circle in the some fifty years in which she has been cooking. For the first two of three decades of her life, as it had been for many earlier generations, her diet was mostly vegetarian, with meat very much reserved for celebrations. Then, after the Second World War, as luxuries gradually became more available, she began to cook with more meat. Over the years, she compiled her definitive book on her home country’s cuisine, The Lebanese Kitchen.

If you are a fan of Lebanese cuisine and wish to recreate your favorite recipes at home, a Lebanese cookbook can be the perfect addition to your kitchen.Most Lebanese dishes are made with simple ingredients cooked in basic ways such as grilling, frying, and baking. Some of the most common Lebanese ingredients include: Ingredient Written by an experienced cook for the family, The Lebanese Kitchen features 500 authentic and delicious recipes that are simple to create at home. Here, readers will find a comprehensive list of the author’s recipes for family favorites and classic dishes handed through many generations.