Lebanese cuisine is known for its fresh and flavorful dishes, with an emphasis on vegetables, grains, and legumes. Many ingredients are used across the diverse range of dishes in Lebanese cuisine. Some key ingredients include:
- Olive oil: Used extensively for cooking, dressing, and dipping, olive oil is a staple in Lebanese cuisine and a primary source of healthy fats.
- Chickpeas: The basis for many popular dishes, such as hummus and falafel, chickpeas are an essential ingredient and a great source of protein.
- Tahini: A sesame seed paste with a creamy texture, tahini is a key ingredient in hummus and baba ghanoush, as well as many sauces and dressings.
- Garlic: A fundamental flavoring agent, garlic is used in various forms in many Lebanese dishes, such as toum (a garlic sauce), and marinades for meats.
- Lemon: Providing a fresh, tangy flavor, lemon is used to brighten and balance dishes, often in the form of lemon juice or zest.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley, mint, and cilantro are some of the most commonly used herbs, adding freshness and flavor to salads, dips, and cooked dishes.
- Spices: Lebanese cuisine features a variety of spices, such as allspice, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, sumac, and za’atar, which is a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac.
- Yogurt: Plain yogurt is used in many dishes, either as a base for sauces and dips or as an accompaniment for grilled meats and vegetables.
- Flatbreads: Pita bread and other flatbreads are used for dipping, scooping, and wrapping various Lebanese dishes.
- Vegetables: A variety of fresh, grilled, and pickled vegetables feature prominently in Lebanese cuisine, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, onions, and peppers.
- Rice: Often served as a side dish or as a base for pilafs and stuffed vegetables, rice is an essential part of many Lebanese meals.
- Nuts: Almonds, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts are often used to add crunch and flavor to dishes, as well as in desserts like baklava.
These key ingredients form the foundation of Lebanese cuisine, with their flavors and textures combining to create a variety of delicious and healthy dishes.
