17+ Mint Middle East Recipe They're Simply Irresistible!
Published on: Mar 12, 2024
Mint is an essential ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, adding a refreshing and aromatic flavor to dishes. Not only does it provide a burst of flavor, but it also has several health benefits. In this article, we will delve into the history and uses of mint in Middle Eastern cooking, as well as provide you with a delicious and authentic mint Middle East recipe to try at home.
Main Ingredients: Water, White Sugar, Mint Leaves, Bourbon, Mint
Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that is perfect for a hot summer day. Made with bourbon, sugar, and fresh mint, this refreshing drink is a must-try for any beer can chicken recipe. The combination of the sweet and woody bourbon with the cool and crisp mint makes for a delicious and unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the chicken. Serve it up in a frosty silver julep cup for an extra touch of elegance.
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Tzatziki
Main Ingredients: Plain Lowfat Greek Yogurt, English Cucumbers
Tzatziki is a Greek dip made with yogurt, cucumber, and herbs. It is tangy, creamy, and a perfect accompaniment to any beer can chicken recipe. The cool and refreshing dip adds a burst of flavor to the smoky chicken and helps cut through the richness of the meat. You can even use it as a marinade for the chicken before grilling to infuse the flavors into the meat. Serve it with some warm pita bread for a complete meal.
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White Bean and Tuna Salad
Main Ingredients: Red Onions, Lemon, Tuna Packed In Olive Oil, Cannellini
Looking for a light and healthy side dish to go with your beer can chicken? Look no further than this delicious white bean and tuna salad. Made with cannellini beans, canned tuna, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is packed with protein and flavor. The creamy beans and tangy tuna pair perfectly with the smoky chicken, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Baked Lebanese Lamb Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Lamb, Egg, Bread Crumbs, Chopped Parsley, Mint
For a unique twist on traditional beer can chicken, try pairing it with some baked Lebanese lamb meatballs. Made with a blend of ground lamb, spices, and fresh herbs, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and a perfect complement to the smoky chicken. Serve them on a bed of fluffy couscous for a complete and delicious meal.
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California Pizza Kitchen’s Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza...
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breast Boneless, Caesar Dressing, Middle East
If you love pizza and beer can chicken, why not combine the two? This recipe for California Pizza Kitchen’s Chicken Caesar Salad Pizza is a match made in foodie heaven. The crispy pizza crust is topped with creamy Caesar dressing, grilled chicken, and tangy parmesan cheese. Serve it up with a cold beer and you have the perfect meal for a summer barbecue.
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Thick and Creamy Restaurant-Style Tzatziki Dip
Main Ingredients: Yogurt, English Cucumber, Garlic Powder, Salt, Garlic
If you want to take your tzatziki game to the next level, try making this thick and creamy restaurant-style dip. Made with Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, and garlic, this dip is rich, tangy, and perfect for dipping your beer can chicken in. You can also use it as a topping for your chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor to the already delicious dish.
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Watermelon Lemon Coconut Drink
Main Ingredients: Seedless Watermelon, Lemon Juice, Sugar, Lite Coconut
This refreshing and hydrating drink is the perfect addition to any beer can chicken recipe. Made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, coconut water, and juicy chunks of watermelon, this drink is packed with electrolytes and flavor. The sweetness of the watermelon complements the smoky chicken, making it a perfect pairing for your summer barbecue.
For a unique and flavorful twist on your beer can chicken, try making these Vietnamese chicken meatballs. Made with minced chicken, fragrant spices, and a tangy fish sauce, these meatballs are packed with flavor and pair perfectly with the smoky chicken. Serve them on a bed of vermicelli noodles for a complete and delicious meal.
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Bourbon Lemonade
Main Ingredients: Lemonade, Club Soda, Bourbon, Mint, Lemons
This refreshing and boozy drink is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. Made with bourbon, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, this cocktail is a perfect match for your beer can chicken. The combination of the smoky chicken with the tart and sweet lemonade is a match made in heaven.
These fresh and flavorful spring rolls are a great side dish to serve with your beer can chicken. Made with rice paper wrappers, vermicelli noodles, and an array of fresh vegetables and herbs, these spring rolls are light, healthy, and packed with flavor. They also make for a great appetizer for your summer barbecue.
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Potato & Corn Fritters
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Corn Kernels, Turmeric Powder, Chilli Powder
These crispy and savory fritters are a great accompaniment to your beer can chicken. Made with shredded potatoes, sweet corn, and a variety of herbs and spices, these fritters are a delicious and unique side dish. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.
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Banana Raspberry Smoothies
Main Ingredients: Fresh Raspberries, Bananas, Almond Milk, Greek Yogurt
For a sweet and healthy treat to go with your beer can chicken, try making these refreshing banana raspberry smoothies. Made with frozen bananas, tangy raspberries, and protein-packed Greek yogurt, these smoothies are a delicious and nutritious way to cool off on a hot day. They also make for a great breakfast or post-workout snack.
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Ginger Tea
Main Ingredients: Ginger Root, Water, Lemon Juice, Mint, Honey
This simple and soothing drink is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. Made with fresh ginger, lemon, and honey, this tea is perfect for sipping on while you wait for your chicken to cook. The warm and spicy ginger flavors complement the smoky chicken, making it a great pairing for a cozy night in.
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Easy Couscous
Main Ingredients: Couscous, Vegetable Stock, Crushed Garlic, Onion
For a quick and easy side dish to go with your beer can chicken, try making this simple couscous. Made with Israeli couscous, herbs, and spices, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and a perfect complement to the smoky chicken. You can even add some grilled vegetables to the couscous for a complete and balanced meal.
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White Sangria Sparkler
Main Ingredients: White Wine, Peaches, Kiwis, Raspberries, Sugar, Mint
This fruity and refreshing sangria is the perfect drink to serve with your beer can chicken. Made with white wine, fresh fruit, and a splash of sparkling water, this drink is light and bubbly, making it a great contrast to the smoky chicken. Serve it in a big pitcher for a fun and festive drink to share with friends.
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Slow Braised Lamb Shanks
Main Ingredients: Lamb Shanks, Fresh Rosemary, Garlic, Cinnamon, Thyme
If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful main dish to serve with your beer can chicken, try making these slow-braised lamb shanks. Made with tender lamb shanks, vegetables, and fragrant herbs and spices, this dish is rich, juicy, and packed with flavor. Serve it with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
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Chicken Pho (Pho Ga)
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onions, Fresh Ginger, Chicken, Chicken Backs
This Vietnamese noodle soup is a delicious and comforting dish to serve with your beer can chicken. Made with chicken, rice noodles, and an aromatic broth, this soup is full of flavor and makes for a satisfying meal. Serve it with a variety of toppings, such as bean sprouts, basil, and lime wedges for a customizable and delicious dining experience.
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Limoncello Spritz
Main Ingredients: Limoncello, Prosecco, Club Soda, Ice, Mint, Lemon
This refreshing and citrusy cocktail is a great match for your beer can chicken. Made with limoncello, sparkling water, and a splash of prosecco, this drink is light, bubbly, and perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Serve it in a tall glass with a lemon wedge for a touch of elegance.
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Skinny Wonder Detox Water
Main Ingredients: Green Apple, Cucumber, Water, Ice, Mint, Slices Of Lemon
For a healthy and refreshing drink to serve with your beer can chicken, try making this skinny wonder detox water. Made with cucumber, lemon, and mint, this drink is packed with antioxidants and helps cleanse and rejuvenate your body. It's a great way to balance out the richness of the chicken and keep you hydrated.
For a flavorful and protein-packed side dish to serve with your beer can chicken, try making these Greek meatballs. Made with ground beef, lamb, or pork, and a variety of herbs and spices, these meatballs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Serve them with some tzatziki sauce for a delicious and authentic Greek experience.
The History of Mint in Middle Eastern Cuisine
Origins
Mint is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and has been used in cooking for thousands of years. It was introduced to the Middle East by the ancient Egyptians, who used it to season their food and to make herbal remedies.
Symbolism and Uses
In Middle Eastern culture, mint holds significant symbolism. It is seen as a sign of hospitality and is often offered to guests as a sign of welcome. In cooking, it is used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet, and is also used to make tea and flavored water.
The Health Benefits of Mint
Rich in Nutrients
Mint is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, iron, and calcium. It also contains antioxidants that can help boost the immune system and protect against diseases.
Improves Digestion
In Middle Eastern cuisine, mint is often used in dishes that are heavy and rich in spices. This is because mint has been known to aid in digestion and reduce symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and nausea.
Relieves Respiratory Issues
The strong aroma of mint can help clear the respiratory tract and provide relief for those suffering from allergies, colds, or asthma. In Middle Eastern culture, it is also believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
A Delicious Mint Middle East Recipe to Try at Home
Mint and Lemon Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients:
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
4 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
Grill the chicken kebabs for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped mint leaves.
Serve with your favorite Middle Eastern side dishes, such as rice, hummus, and pita bread.
In conclusion, mint is an integral part of Middle Eastern cuisine, adding a burst of flavor and many health benefits to dishes. So why not try incorporating it into your cooking with this delicious mint Middle East recipe? Enjoy!
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