Spread Kindness, One Middle Eastern Table at a Time
In a world where cruelty is often served without question, Middle Eastern vegan spreads offer a delicious act of nourishment — rich in flavor, rooted in tradition, and infused with compassion. From the creamy comfort of hummus to the bold punch of toum, these plant-based staples aren’t just appetizers — they’re acts of resistance. They are spreads that nourish without exploitation, carrying centuries of culinary wisdom and a philosophy that values life, flavor, and kindness.
Dubai’s Viral Chocolate Bar, Reimagined Vegan—Where Plant-Based Crunch Meets Pistachio Cream
Inspired by the iconic Dubai Fix chocolate bar, this vegan interpretation keeps the drama while changing the story. Every element—moulded chocolate shell, creamy pistachio filling, and kunafa crunch—is intentionally crafted using vegan alternatives. Kunafa, long cherished for its aromatic crispness, is toasted in plant-based butter until golden and laced with pistachio-white chocolate silk. The shell, made with dairy-free dark chocolate, shatters with elegance and reveals what indulgence can look like when it's rooted in respect.
Sweet by Nature: 12 Naturally Vegan Middle Eastern Desserts That Need No Substitution
In the rich culinary tapestry of the Middle East, some desserts stand apart—not because they imitate, but because they’ve always been. Crafted from sun-dried fruit, humble roots, and floral waters, these sweets carry with them stories of faith, festivals, and forgotten wisdom. No substitutions, no compromises—just pure, time-honored plant-based delight.
The Iranian Vegan’s Must-Try Recipe: Zaytoun Parvardeh, A 500-Year-Old Taste of Persia
Persian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, unique ingredient pairings, and centuries-old recipes. One content creator bringing these traditional dishes into the modern, plant-based world is Mana, widely known as The Iranian Vegan. Through her social media platforms, Mana shares Persian recipes that stay authentic to their roots while remaining 100% vegan. From fragrant stews to delectable appetizers, her creations showcase the beauty of Iranian culinary history in an ethical and sustainable way. Among the many gems of Persian cooking, one dish recently took center stage—Zaytoun Parvardeh.
A Vibrant Twist on Traditional Lebanese Cuisine: Pumpkin Kibbeh
Lebanese cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, colors, and textures, and kibbeh—a beloved classic—is no exception. This delightful twist on the traditional recipe comes from the creative mind of Leah Mansour, also known as @plantbasedcat_. Her innovative approach transforms the beloved pumpkin kibbeh into a wholesome, plant-based dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress.
Creative Ideas to Incorporate Hummus into Your Vegan Meals
Hummus, a popular Middle Eastern dip, is made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It boasts a creamy texture and rich, nutty flavor. Not only is hummus delicious, but it's also packed with nutrients that provide numerous health benefits. The tahini and olive oil contribute heart-healthy fats, while the chickpeas offer protein and fiber, promoting satiety. Hummus is versatile and can be used in various dishes, from dips and spreads to salad dressings and marinades. There are numerous creative ways to incorporate it into your vegan meals. Here are some great ideas:
Exploring the Rich Heritage of Plant-Based Cuisine from the Middle East and North Africa
The rich and diverse culinary traditions of the region offer a treasure trove of naturally vegan dishes. From the Levant to the Arabian Peninsula, many traditional recipes are plant-based, reflecting a deep connection to the land and its bounty. Let’s explore some of the most beloved vegan dishes that have been enjoyed for generations.
Vegan Delights: A Modern Twist on Traditional Persian Cuisine
Persian cuisine, with its rich and ancient history, is renowned for its delicious flavors when prepared correctly. For those looking to enjoy these traditional dishes with a modern, plant-based twist, Mana Shamshiri, also known as The Iranian Vegan, has crafted three vegan recipes that not only honor the authentic tastes of Persian cuisine but are also gut-friendly and delicious.
Vegan Basbousa: A Sweet Middle Eastern Delight with Caramelized Crunch
Vegan basbousa is a delicious Middle Eastern semolina cake soaked in a sweet, floral syrup called atter. It has a golden, crunchy top layer and a soft, fluffy, pale yellow interior. Also known as Harissa or Namoura, this traditional dessert has a rich history and is especially popular in Egypt, Syria, Turkey, Greece, and Lebanon, where it has been enjoyed for centuries.
Twisted Baklava: Vegan Burma Kadayıf Recipe
Burma Kadayıf is a circular sweet pastry popular in Turkish cuisine. It is formed from twisted shredded pastry, almonds, and syrup. This stunning vegan delight only requires six ingredients and can be prepared in one pan.
Bored of Hummus? consider exploring these 5 Broad Bean Dips and Dishes
If you’re hosting guests and want to offer something beyond the usual hummus, consider exploring these 5 broad bean dishes. Instead of relying solely on chickpeas, you can use fava beans (also known as broad beans) as a base for vegan dips and dishes.
Looking for vegan versions of your favourite North African dishes? We’ve got you covered!
BRAISED CAULIFLOWER AND PUY LENTIL TABOULEH. MOROCCAN RAS EL HANOUT COUSCOUS & VEGAN MEATBALLS. MOROCCAN-STYLE LENTIL, CHICKPEA, AND KALE SOUP. FENNEL, NEW POTATO, AND GREEN OLIVE TAGINE. CHICKPEA AND RED AMARANTH SALAD
Harissa: The Spicy North African Condiment You Need in Your Kitchen
Have you tried Harissa yet? This spicy North African condiment, made from chili peppers, spices, and oil, is a paste that brings a bold kick to any dish. While it hasn't reached the iconic status of the beloved Sriracha, harissa is steadily gaining popularity, thanks to a rising interest in African cuisine. Let’s dive into what harissa is and how you can use it in your cooking.
15 Fabulous Falafel Recipes That Will Transport You to the Mediterranean Coast
As if traditional falafel wasn’t amazing enough, inventive chefs and home cooks have elevated these delightful morsels with creative ingredient combinations and unique twists. To celebrate International Falafel Day on June 12th, we’ve curated 15 of our favorite falafel recipes to inspire you to get cooking in your kitchen!
A Homemade vegan hashweh for Arabic Cuisine
A taste and texture explosion of flavor can be added to a variety of Arabic recipes with this special homemade vegan meat filling (Hashweh). This recipe for Hashweh from Plant Based Arab, made with a combination of plant-based components, is not just a meat alternative but also a high-protein dish that resembles the famous meaty texture of Arabic cuisine.
A World of Vegan Delights: Unveiling the Sweet Secrets of the Middle East
The Middle East boasts a surprising number of naturally vegan desserts. This stems from the region's rich history of utilizing ingredients like nuts, fruits, and fragrant waters to create sweet treats. So, for vegan travelers or those following a plant-based lifestyle, the Middle East offers a treasure trove of hidden gems.
Vegan Maqlouba: A traditional Middle Eastern dish, deliciously made!
Maqlouba, a traditional Middle Eastern dish celebrated during special occasions and family gatherings, typically features layers of rice, meat, eggplant, tomatoes, cauliflower, and spices all cooked together in one pot. However, it's entirely possible to craft a mouthwatering vegan version without sacrificing anything. Here's how to prepare a delightful vegan maqlouba from scratch.
Vegan Lebanese Twist: Tripolitan Sfeeha Delight!
Did you ever think a Lebanese classic like Lahme Baajin could take a plant-based turn? Well, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with our vegan Lebanese Lahme Baajin, or as we like to call it, the Tripolitan Sfeeha extravaganza! Let's dive into the magic of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Atayef, the vegan Middle Eastern Stuffed Pancakes: A Sweet Plant-Based Twist
Let's embark on a journey into the realm of this dairy-free version of the beloved dessert, Qatayef. Brace yourself for a flavorful adventure as we guide you through the process of crafting these vegan Middle Eastern-stuffed pancakes.
Unlocking the Versatility of Tahini: A Culinary Journey with a Middle Eastern Classic
Today, with a market valuation exceeding $1.2 billion, tahini has captivated taste buds worldwide. But what precisely is tahini, and how can one harness its full potential? Here, we delve into the world of tahini, offering insights and delectable recipes to elevate your culinary experience.