Wednesday, June 17, 2015

802. Pistachio-Stuffed Dates


Stuffed dates are a big thing in most Arab and Muslim households (walnut, halva, and now pistachio).
Contrary to popular belief, Muslims do not only fast during the holy month of Ramadan. Sure, that time is the only compulsory fasting duty, but fasting is an act that constantly reminds us of the temporary nature of this life and draws us closer to our Lord and remembrance of the hereafter.

Monday, June 15, 2015

801. Roasted Aubergine-Yogurt Dip


Similar to baba ghanouche, this roasted aubergine-yogurt dip is the Europeanized version. It lacks the essential tahini, hence yielding a somewhat lighter dip.

Saturday, June 13, 2015

800. Home-Made Marshmallow (No Thermometer!)


If there is one thing I tend to avoid in the kitchen is thermometer candy making. So I should probably start right off saying you can make these marshmallows without a thermometer.

Thursday, June 11, 2015

799. Sheesh Tawooq


The MENA Cooking Club hosted Lebanon a while back and I was unable to participate at the time.
I have participated in several MENA challenges, including Algeria, Bahrain, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Malta, and most recently Morocco. My choice for Lebanon is Sheesh Tawooq.

Wednesday, June 10, 2015

798. Moroccan Makrout (Fried Semolina Date Cookies)


This month's MENA Cooking Club feature is Morocco. The MENA Cooking Club explores the differences and similarities of the Middle East and North African countries through local cuisine. Previous entries include  Algeria, Bahrain, Djiboui, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and Malta.

Monday, June 8, 2015

797. Broccoli with Cheese Sauce


Considered a take on cauliflower cheese, except that it is broccoli, and that it's deconstructed.
I think most kids grew up hating broccoli because it was over cooked. The true beauty of a broccoli lies when it is ever-so delicately stir-fried or steamed.

Sunday, June 7, 2015

796. Lemon Crush Slushy


Inspired from my watermelon crush of yesteryear, as well as having a velvety tangy lemon sorbet on hand, I could not resist making these frosty lemon crush drinks.

Friday, June 5, 2015

795. Lemon Sorbet


Lemon sorbet is a very refined and elegant dessert. Sometimes it is used to cleanse the palate after a particularly aromatic meal. Sophisticated as it may seem, it also appeals to younger audiences as it is basically a frozen lemonade.

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

794. Melon with Viande Sechee


At first glance, melon and dried meat may seem like an odd combination. Upon tasting it, it will quickly become one of the most delicious delicacies imprinted in your taste buds for life.

Monday, June 1, 2015

793. Cauliflower Crust Pizza


The cauliflower fad was so 2013, but why stop something that works? The cauliflower is used as an alternative to flour, rendering the pizza gluten free. As other cauliflower-substitution recipes before this one (mash, salad, and stir-fry), we take advantage of its mild flavor to disguise it as a naughtier, more dense dish.