The Middle Eastern Vegan

by Zehorit Heilicher, Tastemaker in Residence

Looking to eat less animal protein? Load up on vegetables? Eat healthier and well? No need to look further than the Middle Eastern kitchen! Filled with legumes, grains, spices, herbs and dried fruit, this cuisine offers flavorful dishes that satisfy our hunger and our palate.

Start by stocking your pantry with a wide variety of beans: garbanzos, cannellini, kidney and more. Add grains like barley and bulgur, as well as spices like turmeric, cardamom, and cumin and don’t forget the fragrant rose water or orange blossom water. Those are all available at local Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.

Here are some recipes to get you started, whether you are craving warm-spiced soup, a tangy tabouleh or a sweet date snack.