The Levant region, also known as the Eastern Mediterranean, is a unique and captivating part of the world, steeped in history, culture, and a distinctive cuisine that is sure to delight the palate. The Levant is made up of several countries including Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Palestine, all of which boast a rich and diverse food culture that is centered around the use of olive oil.
Olive oil, a staple in the Mediterranean diet, is a key ingredient in Levantine cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes at My Pita Wrap, from salads and hummus to main courses. The olive oil we use is produced in the Levant and is considered some of the finest in the world, with a unique flavor and aroma that is a result of the region's climate, soil, and traditional production methods.
The olive trees in the Levant are grown in rocky terraces, and the olives are often hand-picked, preserving the quality of the fruit. The olives are then cold-pressed to extract the oil, resulting in a high-quality product that is rich in flavor and aroma.
One of the most iconic dishes of the Levant is hummus, a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The chickpeas are soaked overnight and then boiled until they are soft, before being blended with the other ingredients to create a smooth and creamy dip. Try our hummus with pita bread, or as a side dish with our grilled meats.
Another popular dish is baba ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip made with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The eggplants are roasted over an open flame until they are soft and charred, giving the dip its distinctive smoky flavor. Both of these dishes are staples in the Levantine diet and are enjoyed by people all over the world.
Falafel is another dish that is closely associated with the Levant. Made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, herbs, and spices, falafel is a popular street food that is often served in pita bread with hummus, tahini sauce, and vegetables. The mixture of chickpeas or fava beans is ground into a paste, formed into small balls or patties, and then deep-fried until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside.
Shawarma, a dish made from marinated and grilled meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef), is another popular street food in the Levant that is served with a variety of toppings, including tahini sauce, pickles, and onions. All the spices we use on our shawarma at My Pita Wrap come from the Levant.
Levantine cuisine is not only delicious but also healthy. The use of olive oil, fresh vegetables, lean meats, and herbs and spices, results in dishes that are high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
This makes the Levantine diet a great option for those looking to eat a balanced and nutritious diet. The use of fresh and natural ingredients, combined with traditional cooking methods, ensures that the food is full of flavor and nutrients.
Some other popular dishes include tabbouleh, a salad made from bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and mint, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil; fattoush, a salad made from toasted or fried pieces of pita bread, mixed with vegetables and dressed with sumac and olive oil; and makdous, small eggplants that are stuffed with walnuts, garlic, and red pepper, then pickled in olive oil.
In conclusion, the Levant region is a culinary paradise that offers a wide variety of delicious and healthy foods. From hummus and baba ganoush to falafel and shawarma, the region's cuisine is centered around olive oil, which gives the dishes a unique flavor and aroma.
Whether you're a foodie or just looking to try something new, the Levantine cuisine is definitely worth exploring.
