When I started this blog, it was my intention to keep it solely dedicated to food, to culture, and the vivid tapestry of the Levant region. It is not a political blog at all. This is still my intent. It is not a political blog, and the following is not a political post. It is merely my musings as I tried to work out my feelings about Ramadan, … [Read more…]
Archives for July 2014
Chicken Mushroom Alfredo
This is a simple weeknight dish to put together. Instead of first cooking, then removing the chicken, I left the chicken in as I added all the ingredients, making this a one-pot meal. I lightened the standard Alfredo sauce up a bit by using only 1 tablespoon of butter, and using 1 – 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Plus, I really do like … [Read more…]
Chicken Freekeh Soup
NPR predicts that freekeh is one of the new foods to watch in 2014. Freekeh is a very nutritious and filling ancient grain. It has a low glycemic index, according to Eatright.org , and is higher in protein and fiber than other grains. Freekeh is a really rustic food that has been around in the Middle East forever. It is roasted green … [Read more…]
Ramadan – Vegetarian Iftar Menu
If you are a vegetarian, there are plenty of good quality protein sources for the end of a long day of fast. Some good non-meat sources of protein include: Quinoa Greek yogurt Legumes, including lentils, chickpeas, and Nuts and seeds (and their butters and milks) – sunflower seeds, almonds, peanuts Chia seeds Tofu Eggs Avocados A sample … [Read more…]
Creamy Chicken Curry
This is a curry made with madras curry powder, garam masala, coconut milk, and made oh-so-creamy with heavy cream. I consider this a pantry recipe because most of these items can be kept on standby in the pantry and freezer, for those times when you don’t have time to get to the store. It reheats very well, so you could double this recipe for … [Read more…]
Minted Cucumber Yogurt Salad- Khiar biLaban
This is a refreshing summer salad, made with fresh cucumbers and mint. The traditional Levantine recipe is nice and garlicky, but I also like to add some finely minced or grated onion. It goes very well with kabobs/grilled meats as well as with rice dishes. It is also good to eat alongside very spicy foods and curries, as the yogurt and mint help … [Read more…]
Lamb in Yogurt Sauce (or Wannabe Mansaf)
Not too long ago, I posted a picture on my Facebook page of a mansaf. A friend asked me if it was hard to make, and if I could share the recipe. While it is not hard at all to make, it is hard to make unless you have the right ingredients. The key ingredient is laban jameed, or a dried yogurt. I know that there is powdered jameed here in the … [Read more…]
Ramadan – Sample Iftar Menu #3 – Mezzeh Style
This is sample Ramadan menu #3. Some people don’t like to break their fast with full meals. This menu is for those who prefer lighter fare. Certainly, no matter which type of meal someone eats, it is preferable to leave the table with a bit of space left in your stomach, so that you are not uncomfortable all night long. 2 … [Read more…]