Lebanese cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that is celebrated around the world. Known for its vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients, Lebanese food offers a delightful gastronomic experience. From mezze to hearty main courses and mouthwatering desserts, Lebanese cuisine has something to please every palate. Let's explore some of the national dishes and local specialties that make Lebanon a culinary haven.

Hummus: Hummus is one of the most famous Lebanese dishes, loved for its smooth and creamy texture. Made from cooked chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, hummus is often served as a dip with warm pita bread or as a side dish with grilled meats and vegetables. Recipe

Tabbouleh: Tabbouleh is a refreshing and nutritious Lebanese salad made with finely chopped parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, onions, mint, and lemon juice. It is a light and tangy dish that is often enjoyed as part of a mezze spread or as a side dish with grilled meats. Recipe

Falafel: Falafel is a popular street food in Lebanon and beyond. These deep-fried balls are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with herbs, onions, and spices. Falafel is typically served in pita bread with tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and pickles. Recipe

Shawarma: Shawarma is a beloved Lebanese dish made from thinly sliced marinated meat, usually chicken, lamb, or beef. The meat is slow-roasted on a vertical spit and then shaved off to be served in a wrap or on a plate with a variety of accompaniments such as garlic sauce, pickles, and fries. Recipe

Kibbeh: Kibbeh is a traditional Lebanese dish that comes in various forms. The most popular is kibbeh nayeh, which is a raw meat dish made from finely ground raw lamb or beef mixed with bulgur, onions, and spices. Kibbeh can also be baked or fried, and it is often stuffed with a filling of spiced meat, onions, and pine nuts. Recipe

Fattoush: Fattoush is a vibrant Lebanese salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, onions, and toasted pieces of pita bread. The salad is dressed with a tangy vinaigrette made from lemon juice, olive oil, and sumac, a tart and tangy spice. Recipe

Manakish: Manakish is a popular Lebanese breakfast dish that resembles a pizza. It consists of a flatbread topped with a variety of ingredients such as za'atar (a blend of herbs and spices), cheese, minced meat, or vegetables. It is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or labneh (strained yogurt). Recipe

Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry that is widely enjoyed in Lebanon and throughout the Middle East. It consists of layers of thin filo pastry filled with a mixture of chopped nuts, sugar, and spices, and it is soaked in a sweet syrup made from honey or rosewater. Recipe

These are just a few examples of the national dishes and local specialties that showcase the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Lebanon. Lebanese cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors, textures, and aromas that will leave you craving for more.