Cuisine of the Middle East; from a Backpackers Perspective

The Middle East produces some of the world's most delicate snacks and
delicious flavours. These are countries ripe with traditional cooking
methods where eating a meal is as much about the friends you share it
with as the food you eat. In Syria you can explore the local Souqs
(undercover markets) where every nook and cranny is filled with
fragrant herbs and rich spices. Turkish meals often include a helping
of warm fresh bread alongside soups cooked in pots that need to be
cracked open after cooking. In Jordan share meze with friends. Popular
meze dishes include Baba Ghanoush € mashed eggplant (aubergine) and
minced lamb mixed with mint and spices. In Israel the budget-conscious
backpacker can indulge in chicken kebabs, bagels, and falafels with
hummus in warm pitas. If this has wet your appetite then read on for a
pick of the tastiest Middle Eastern dishes and beverages.If you like
it strong and dark then Turkish coffee is for you. It is bitter, taken
without milk and served in an espresso sized cup.Chick pea lovers
unite! The Middle East is full of creamy hummus, chick pea stews and
deep fried falafels.Order a kebab like no other kebab you've ordered
before. Choose from tender cuts of lamb, chicken or beef with salad,
hummus and olives, topped with chilli and garlic sauce.Munch on olives
of every colour, size and flavour.Buy Turkish Delight in bulk in, you
guessed it, Turkey. These come in flavours ranging from yellow rose to
pistachio. Once sampled never forgotten.