Globe Trotting Foodventures — 3

The Bustling Food Streets of Middle East

Hailing from the land of the Habibis, the Middle East has a rich and diverse culture that has moulded me unlike any other region that I’ve been to. The course of my journey in the Middle East has revived my connection to good food. Maybe this is why the Middle East is considered a dynamic melting pot of tradition, culture and food!

If you know any Arabs, you’re probably familiar with their love for food. Hands down, the credit for this enthusiasm goes to Middle Eastern food. It is a unique part of the world where small cafes and street food stalls are as popular as restaurants.

Middle Eastern street food fares well with a vibrant selection of delicacies for every season and every mood. From a variety of grills, breads and dips to choose from, the street food from Middle East is a thriving culture.

Next stop: The Middle Eastern Streets
Being a foodie in my teenage years meant that food was always a priority. That’s why a young 14-year old me took great pleasure in exploring the street food culture of Middle East. I still have a vivid memory of my first experience with the local food from the streets. All I can say is, the aroma of grills combined with the sizzle of meat cooking and the sheer visual variety is a recipe for gluttony.

There’s no denying that street food always comes to rescue you from starvation. Whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite or have a case of the nocturnal munchies, you can count on the local street food to tend to your hunger.

And with Middle Eastern cuisine, there is so much to pick from — the famous Shawarma that wraps shaved meat with pickled vegetables or the vegetarian’s delight — fried chickpea and fava beans cutlets, also known as falafel! Then there are the scrumptious dips that embrace the return of the hummus, tahini and baba ghanoush, which are paired with the traditional breads! These spreads may look like they are from the same family, but a bite of it and you’ll know how flavourful and unique each one of them is. A visit to the streets is incomplete without savouring the Shish Tawook. Succulent pieces of delectable chicken with an off-the-hook marinade that melts in your mouth; this kebab is a treat. Any street vendor that you visit, has to have these essentials that the Arab people just can’t do without.

Over the years, even my tastebuds have grown accustomed to Middle Eastern cuisine; not too spicy, not too sour, and just the right balance of multiple ingredients. The best Middle Eastern food you can relish is in the streets that are a reflection of the pulsating culture.

Eat and repeat
Middle Eastern street food has found its way onto various menus around the world. It has been established as the ultimate replacement for fast food. It has influences from, and in turn has influenced cuisines across the planet. I think it’s safe to say that this hearty cuisine is one that finds admirers everywhere.

At Freshmenu, we celebrate our love for Middle Eastern food with a tribute to our favourites from the streets.

What’s your favourite dish from the Middle East? Tell us in the comments below!

[caption id=”attachment_3571" align=”aligncenter” width=”300"]

Shish Taouk Chicken Sandwich[/caption]