Well, it’s the end of our first Featured Flavours, and boy we had fun experimenting with Thai Tastes! Not to rest on our laurels, though, we are pleased to announce that after much debate, our next theme is Middle Eastern Meccas.
Over September and October, we will be exploring all the depth and diversity that the Middle East has to offer us. First, though, a bit of clarity: for the purposes of our theme, we will be working with food from Turkey, Iran, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Israel, Egypt and Lebanon. This isn’t to say that we won’t include food we might find from other countries of the region, however, it’s good for us to start small, and delve into the culinary commonalities and differences of these countries without spreading ourselves too thinly!
But I digress – without any further geographically correct ado, let’s start conjuring up the richness of the Middle East!
What about spiced minced meats, wrapped lovingly in baked pastries? What do you say to the cool yoghurty dips contrasting with ever-so-tender grilled lamb, engulfed by simple greens and wedged between layers of pita? How about sweet, spiced teas in ornate glasses with tinkling silver spoons? And alongside them, crumbling layers of filo drenched in honey, nestling with pistachio-encrusted snacks? What about the bursting of pomegranate seeds when you pop them in your mouth? And what of the baked fishes draped lovingly with parsley, mint and coriander, and served with olives and wedges of lemon? And, my dear readers, what say you of Turkish Delight?
If the idea of all these flavours has you salivating as much as me, stay tuned for the next two months, as we will explore the Middle East both in our own kitchens and the kitchens of Brisbane. Middle Eastern cooking is known for its spices, grains and breads, its celebration of coriander, parsely and mint, and the sonsory delight caused by the contrast of hot and cool foods in the same mouthful. It should be an enjoyable adventure!
PS: We have some great establishments popping up around the place that we’re excited to go forth and review, but we’d also love to hear from you about any Middle Eastern establishments you’d love us to explore – simply let us know in the comments, and we will endeavour to make our way there.
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