Lebanon

Lebanese cuisine is renowned for its freshness, variety, and generous use of herbs and spices. It highlights ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, lemon, yogurt, and fresh vegetables. Among its iconic dishes is hummus, a chickpea puree blended with tahini (sesame paste), garlic, lemon, and olive oil, often served with pita bread.

Tabbouleh, a salad made with parsley, tomatoes, bulgur, mint, lemon, and olive oil, is also very popular, as is fattoush, a salad of fresh vegetables and grilled pita bread pieces.

Kibbeh, a type of minced meat ball mixed with bulgur and spices, and shawarma, grilled meat served in pita bread, are must-tries. Mujaddara, a dish made with lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, is also a favorite.

Mezzes (small sharing dishes) are at the heart of Lebanese gastronomy and include a wide variety of dips, salads, grilled meats, and vegetables. For dessert, baklava, a pastry made with phyllo dough, nuts, and honey, and knafeh, a dessert made with cheese and sweet phyllo dough, are unmissable treats.

Lebanese cuisine is a true explosion of flavors, blending freshness, spices, and simplicity, and is often shared with family or friends.