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A Taste of Lebanon: Kafta Kabobs, Makdous, and the Best Side Dishes

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Lebanese Cuisines
A Taste of Lebanon: Kafta Kabobs, Makdous, and the Best Side Dishes

Lebanese cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors, with dishes that are as rich in culture as they are in taste. Among the most cherished are Lebanese Kafta Kabobs and Lebanese Makdous. Alongside these, you'll discover a wide array of Lebanese side dishes that complete any meal, adding depth and vibrancy to the culinary experience.


Lebanese Kafta Kabobs: The Star of the Grill

At the heart of Lebanese cuisine are Lebanese Kafta Kabobs, a staple at any family gathering or barbecue. These kabobs are made with minced lamb or beef, blended with a variety of spices like cinnamon, cumin, and allspice, and bound together with parsley and onions.


Grilling the kabobs over an open flame imparts a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the warm spices. They’re often served with warm pita bread, rice, or a fresh salad. For an extra burst of flavor, some serve them with a drizzle of tahini sauce or a side of hummus.


Not only are they flavorful, but Lebanese Kafta Kabobs are also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a favorite for weeknight meals or weekend feasts alike.


Lebanese Makdous: A Tangy, Nutty Treat

Lebanese Makdous is another highlight of Lebanese cuisine, bringing a unique combination of textures and flavors to the table. This dish is made from baby eggplants stuffed with a mixture of garlic, walnuts, and chili, then preserved in olive oil.


The process of making Makdous requires patience, as the eggplants need time to absorb the flavors and ferment. Once ready, they offer a tangy, slightly spicy flavor, with the creamy eggplant and crunchy walnuts creating a delightful contrast. Lebanese Makdous is perfect as a side dish or even as part of a mezze platter.


The Rich Variety of Lebanese Side Dishes

Lebanese side dishes are an essential part of the meal, offering lighter, complementary flavors to the heartier main courses. These sides are often vegetable-based and full of bright, fresh flavors.


Some popular choices include:

  • Moutabal: A creamy, smoky dip made from roasted eggplants, similar to baba ghanoush but with a spicier kick.
  • Loubieh bi Zeit: A flavorful dish of green beans simmered in olive oil and tomatoes, served cold or warm.
  • Pickled Vegetables: Known as "makdous" in some regions, these tangy and crunchy pickled vegetables add a zesty contrast to grilled meats like kafta.

With its emphasis on fresh produce and bold flavors, Lebanese side dishes bring balance to any meal.


FAQs

Q: What meat is traditionally used for Kafta Kabobs?

A: Ground lamb is most commonly used, but beef or a mixture of both is also popular in Lebanese Kafta Kabobs.


Q: Is Lebanese Makdous difficult to make?

A: While it requires time to ferment, Lebanese Makdous is fairly simple to prepare with just a few ingredients.


Q: What’s a good side dish to serve with Kafta Kabobs?

A: Hummus, tabbouleh, or fattoush are excellent Lebanese side dishes to serve with Kafta Kabobs.


Q: How long does it take to make Kafta Kabobs?A: Preparing the mixture takes about 20 minutes, while grilling can take 10-15 minutes depending on the heat of the grill.

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