Lebanese Cooking

Lebanon is a small country hugging the shores of the eastern Mediterranean. It has been a crossroads of cultures since recorded history began. Lebanese cuisine is one of the most interesting in the Mediterranean region? It combines the sophistication and subtleties of European cuisines with the exotic ingredients of the Middle and Far East.

Traditional food is based on local produce - olive oil, vegetables, grains, fruit and pulses. Beans and lentils, including the ever-present chickpeas, are an essential part of their diet. Lamb and chicken are preferred to mutton or beef. Many kinds of kebabs form a part of their famous mezze which is a varied and vast collection of appetisers.

For flavouring the Lebanese use an interesting mix of spices and herbs from both the East and the West. The main herbs used are fresh mint, parsley, and thyme. Spices include cinnamon, cumin, nutmeg and coriander.