Separate fact from fiction in these common Middle Eastern food myths!
1. Myth: Most Middle Eastern Food is Cooked on a Stick.
Truth:Kabobs are a very popular Middle Eastern food, however they are not the substance of Middle Eastern cuisine. Dishes like
/od/chicken/r/chickenshawarma.htm">shawarma, roast leg of lamb, and
fasulia are all excellent examples of Middle Eastern food not made on a skewer.
2. Myth: In the Middle East, People Only Eat Middle Eastern Food.
Truth:In larger Middle Eastern cities, you will find many types of international foods, like Chinese, Mexican, and Italian foods. In fact, McDonalds is very popular in some cities with their
McFalafel sandwich.
3. Myth: Pita is the Only Bread in the Middle East.
Truth:While
pita bread is the most widely consumed bread in the Middle East, it certainly is not the only bread. Breads like
lavash,
naan, and pide are all different and wonderful varieties of Middle Eastern breads.
4. Middle Eastern Food is Just Like Greek Food
Yes, some Middle Eastern recipes are similar to Greek recipes. However, Middle Eastern food is very different from Greek food in that it uses many different ingredients. Saying Greek food is like Middle Eastern food is comparative to saying Chinese food is just like Japanese food - somewhat similar, yet very different!
5. Myth: All Middle Eastern Countries Have the Same Food and Recipes.
Truth:Just like the U.S. has many fares, so does the Middle East.
Persian and Turkish cuisine are probably most different from their Arab neighbors. Foods that are native to each country greatly vary by what is available. You will also find names of food may be different in some countries, yet contain the same ingredients.
