Lebanese Cuisine: Delicious Recipes for Falafel, Potato Stew, and Hummus

Lebanese cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and health-conscious recipes. If you've ever visited a Lebanese restaurant or shared a meal with someone from the Levant, you know the magic of dishes like Lebanese falafel, Lebanese potato stew, and Lebanese hummus. These dishes are easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

In this blog, we will share authentic Lebanese recipes for falafel, potato stew, and hummus, along with useful tips for nailing these dishes at home.

Lebanese Falafel Recipe: Crunchy and Flavorful

Falafel is one of the most iconic dishes in the Middle East, and the Lebanese falafel recipe stands out for its unique blend of spices and herbs. Unlike other variations, Lebanese falafel is light, crispy, and full of earthy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Soak chickpeas: Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas overnight. This is essential for achieving the perfect texture in falafel.
2. Blend ingredients: Drain the chickpeas and add them to a food processor along with the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Blend until the mixture becomes a thick paste.
3. Add baking soda: Stir in the baking soda to make the falafel fluffy when fried.
4. Form balls: Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
5. Fry falafel: Heat the oil in a deep pan and fry the falafel balls until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Serve your Lebanese falafel with pita bread, tahini sauce, and fresh veggies. Whether as a snack or a full meal, falafel never disappoints.

Lebanese Potato Stew: A Comforting Vegetarian Dish

Lebanese Potato Stew, also known as "Batata Harra" (spicy potatoes), is a simple yet delicious dish. Made with minimal ingredients, this stew packs a punch in terms of flavor and comfort.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water or vegetable stock

Instructions:

1. Sauté onions and garlic: Heat olive oil in a large pan and sauté the onions until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add spices: Sprinkle paprika, coriander, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until fragrant.
3. Cook potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pan and stir to coat them with the spice mixture. Pour in enough water or vegetable stock to cover the potatoes and bring to a boil.
4. Simmer: Reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
5. Add cilantro: Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving.

This Lebanese potato stew is perfect as a side dish or a main meal, served with rice or pita bread.

Lebanese Hummus Recipe: Smooth and Creamy

Hummus is a Lebanese staple, enjoyed around the world for its creamy texture and versatile flavor. The best Lebanese hummus recipe is one that is simple but uses the highest quality ingredients to elevate the dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained)
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed for consistency)
• Paprika and olive oil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Blend chickpeas: Place the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor. Blend until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency: Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired creamy texture.
3. Season: Taste and season with salt as needed.
4. Garnish: Transfer the hummus to a serving dish and drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika.

Serve this Lebanese hummus recipe with warm pita bread, fresh veggies, or as a spread in sandwiches.

FAQs

1. Can I bake falafel instead of frying it?

Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake falafel at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be as crispy, but it will still be delicious.

2. How long does hummus stay fresh?

Homemade hummus can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Be sure to drizzle a little olive oil on top to keep it from drying out.

3. What can I serve with Lebanese potato stew?

Lebanese potato stew pairs well with rice, couscous, or crusty bread. It can also be served alongside grilled meats or as part of a mezze platter.

4. Is Lebanese hummus vegan?

Yes! Lebanese hummus is naturally vegan, made with chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.

5. What makes Lebanese falafel different from other falafel recipes?

Lebanese falafel tends to be lighter and more fragrant, using a blend of fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro. The addition of cumin and coriander also gives it a unique, earthy flavor.

Conclusion

Whether you're new to Lebanese cuisine or a seasoned pro, these recipes for Lebanese falafel, Lebanese potato stew, and Lebanese hummus are perfect for home cooks. They’re easy to prepare, filled with healthy ingredients, and bursting with flavor. Try them out, and bring the taste of Lebanon into your kitchen!