Category Archives: vegetarian

Dried fruit balls

I am not sure how or why it happened, but I suddenly found my fridge,  freezer and cupboard  bursting with packages of dried fruits and nuts. These are the solution; made in minutes and perfect for a breakfast on-the-go or a case of the munchies at eleven PM. INGREDIENTS: 2  cups assorted dried fruits ( [...]
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Red lentil and bulgur pilaf

I feel very fortunate to be able to escape from the hustle-bustle and super charged atmosphere of Beirut into the mountains every weekend; there, only 35 minutes away at 3000 feet altitude, lies a peaceful town surrounded by nature. After spending some time with a seasoned farmer who offered to show me where to find ( [...]
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Shawarma on hummus

One of the biggest advantages of living in Beirut is this: I can order this at my favorite deli. It comes with all the trimmings. The flavor is superb and I did not spend a second in the kitchen.  If you are looking for a classic hummus recipe, click here.  A beef shawarma recipe, click [...]
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Eggplant, Morroccan-style (Zahlouk)

I know little of the foods of North Africa, so when I saw Chef Zouhair Zairi‘s new book Moorish Fusion Cuisine, I was instantly interested. His book is filled with mouthwatering dishes (around 70) all made with the best and the rarest of ingredients (such as 50-year old Balsamic vinegar and Argan oil). Chef Zairi [...]
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Armenian bulgur salad (Itch)

  You may be still in the throes of Winter where you are, but here in Lebanon Spring has arrived; the mountains are getting covered in wildflowers and fruit trees have started to show their blossoms. Winter was barely felt this year.  This salad is extra flavorful and when I make it, I end up [...]
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