Ma’Moul Cookies for Easter!

Although mainstream media seldom talks about Arab Christians, there are millions of us all over the world, from Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, Jordan and Egypt. Easter is huge for us, and there are many traditions we participate in to prepare for this big holiday. Palm Sunday masses tend to be massive processions where everyone is holding…… Continue reading Ma’Moul Cookies for Easter!

Vegan Cabbage Rolls: MALFOUF!

The word “malfouf” in Arabic means both “cabbage” and “rolled.” So in Lebanese and Palestinian culture, cooks must have felt that it was only natural to roll up the cabbage around rice, and the popular dish malfouf was born. Stuffed cabbage leaves are popular in so many countries, from Russia to Poland and Sweden. But…… Continue reading Vegan Cabbage Rolls: MALFOUF!

Valentine’s Day Recipe RoundUp!

  I am not into froofy cheesy displays of Valentine’s affection, but I do like my desserts! Here is your one stop shop for Valentine’s recipe ideas that you can give to your loved ones–and two of the recipes don’t even require any baking! Let’s start with my most popular video for my no-bake Lazy…… Continue reading Valentine’s Day Recipe RoundUp!

Popular Hot Beverage of the Arab World: Sahlab

For many, drinking coffee is a ritual that comforts all of the senses, especially on a cold, wintry day. The sound of the percolating espresso machine triggers excitement for the energizing drink to come. The warmth of the coffee cup defrosts brisk fingertips. The flavor is tailored to each person’s preference – rich cream, a…… Continue reading Popular Hot Beverage of the Arab World: Sahlab

KENAFA WARS!

If this whole planet were to implode tomorrow and I had the time to eat my favorite food before that happens, I would find or make kanafeh and wolf the whole platter down. Or,  if you asked me what  you should include in your bucket list of 10 things to try before you die I would also…… Continue reading KENAFA WARS!

M’Nazaleh, A Rich Tasting Yet Healthy Eggplant Casserole

Did you know that the Greek word Moussaka comes from the Arabic word “musaqqa‘ah” which means chilled?  The reason this dish is called “chilled” is because you can eat it cold and it tastes just as delicious. Greek Mousakka is what I call indulgence food, rich meat and eggplant tucked under a bed of creamy, buttery,…… Continue reading M’Nazaleh, A Rich Tasting Yet Healthy Eggplant Casserole

Garlicky Turmeric Rice–The Foundation of My Dishes with Mega Health Benefits!

I am not carb phobic, especially when it comes to my rice. For active people (like me) carbohydrates are metabolized by the body and turned into functional, usable energy.  Brown rice is rich in insoluble fiber that can protect against many types of cancer, containing vitamins and minerals like niacin, vitamin A, C and  D,…… Continue reading Garlicky Turmeric Rice–The Foundation of My Dishes with Mega Health Benefits!

SHAWARMA!

My most epic sandwich moment happened near Petra in Jordan, years ago. I was determined to hike around this ancient city  with my tour group  in 100 degree heat. One of my friends on this trip, John, was perpetually  hungry, regardless of the blistering hot weather. He saw a lonely shawarma stand off the side…… Continue reading SHAWARMA!

The Veggie Burger Re-invented – Kibbeh style!

Have you checked the ingredient list of store-bought veggie burgers lately? Many of them are teeming with GMO soy, GMO canola oil, funky fillers, and chemicals I cannot pronounce ((gasp)) The human body would recognize an organic, grass fed beef burger more than the frozen veggie monstrosities you see in the supermarket frozen section. It…… Continue reading The Veggie Burger Re-invented – Kibbeh style!

Burbara–Middle Eastern Wheat Berry Porridge!

This isn’t your typical porridge… December marks one of my favorite food traditions in my family–the feast of Santa Barbara. Palestinian, Syrian,  and Lebanese Christians celebrate this feast every year beginning on December 4 for Roman Catholics, and December 16th for Greek Orthodox Christians. They commemorate this holiday by making a sweet dish called Burbarah…… Continue reading Burbara–Middle Eastern Wheat Berry Porridge!