Top 5 Mediterranean Foods You Should Try

Mediterranean food has always been reputed for strong flavors, fresh products, and wide diversity that reflects the history of culinary art in this region. From the shores of Greece to the busy streets of Lebanon, Mediterranean food represents a grand mishmash of taste and spices. Here is the list of five must-try Mediterranean foods without which no foodie’s list could ever be complete.

Manakish: An invention from Levantine cuisine, manakish is a pastry made with a mixture of za’atar and olive oil but can very often be further spiced up with toppings of cheese and ground meat. They are very popular items as a traditional breakfast food or a food for snacks in the Middle East.

Shawarma: Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made from slices of meat, such as chicken, mutton, or beef, marinated in various spices and then roasted to perfection on the skewer. After that, it is served inside pita bread with vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles.

Kebab: This comprises meat, mostly lamb, beef, or chicken, which is threaded together and seasoned with spicy condiments and herbs, then grilled. It is normally served with rice, salad, or pita bread. Therefore, it is a very transferable and savory kind of dish that could be best served for any occasion.

Moussaka: Greece offers us the one place of origin for this hearty, tasty dish that comprises layers of eggplants, minced meat (most ways—lamb or beef), and tomatoes, crowned with béchamel sauce. After that, it is baked until golden and bubbly, resulting in a rich, savory, and satisfying dish.

Falafel: Falafel is a kind of Arab street food—a deep-fried ball or patty made from grounded chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with special herbs and species, shaped into balls, and fried to a crunchy crust. Often served in a pita with pickles, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tahini sauce, it is a delicious and filling dish for vegetarians.

If you live in Silicon Valley and are interested in trying these dishes, you can find many of them at Manakish Oven & Grill. Located in San Jose Downtown Food Hall, Manakish Oven & Grill is a Middle Eastern restaurant in San Jose, CA serving Middle Eastern food in San Jose, Santa Clara, and Mountain View. You can also inquire about catering for Mediterranean food in San Jose, CA.