10 Most Popular Foods in Syria

This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links, at no cost to you.

Known for its rich culture and ancient roots, Syria is one of the oldest Arab countries. The cuisine of Syria is pretty unique from the rest of the Arab countries. The dominant food ingredients of Syrian cuisine are lamb, rice, garlic, cabbage, cauliflower, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, lime, and so on.

There are a number of Syrian recipes which have been around since the 13th century. Let’s have a look at the best dishes Syria has to offer.

1. Syrian Shawarma

This Syrian Street food is pretty known for its distinctive taste and extraordinary aroma. The Syrian Shawarma is made from soft and tender chicken breast. The chicken breast is roasted on vertical grill machines. Finally, the Shawarma is cut into pieces and filled inside homemade bread. You can have the Syrian Shawarma with garlic cream and cucumber salad if you want.

Recipe for Syrian Shawarma

2. Manakish

Manakish is a popular traditional food of Syria. The dish is prepared in every household in Syria. To prepare good quality Manakish, you will require a baking pan. The key ingredients of Manakish are meat, cheese, tomato sauce, etc. The Manakish is more like Pizza. You can order this delicious Manakish with a cup of tea if you want.

Recipe for Manakish

3. Yabrak

The meaning of the word “yabrak” is the leaves of the vine. The recipe of yabrak is prevalent from the time of the Ottoman. This Syrian recipe can be served as both the main course and appetizer. Here, the vine leaves are stuffed with rice, meat, and vegetables. You can cook the Yabrak with some tangy sauce if you want.

Recipe for yabrak

4. Sheikh-Al- Mahshi

To make perfect Sheikh-Al-Mashi, you will need zucchini, beef, yogurt, chicken, etc. The local chefs of Syria add pine nuts to the recipe. During Ramadan and other Muslim festivals, this Sheikh-Al- Mahshi is prepared for lunch and dinner. As an accompaniment, you can serve sour pickles with this tasty dish.

Recipe for Sheikh-Al-Mahshi

5. Al-Maglouba

This eggplant dish is quite popular in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and other neighboring countries. The taste of this dish varies between different places. Among meat, you can use lamb or chicken in this dish. You can enjoy the dish of Al-Maglouba with some Arabic salad if you want. This delicious recipe contains vegetables as well.

Recipe for Al-Maglouba

6. Al- Mujadara

Al-Mujadara is a perfect recipe for light lunch. The key ingredient of Al-Mujadara is brown lentils. This authentic meal has been served in Syria for several hundred years. This Arabic recipe features roasted onions, rice, wheat, etc.

Recipe for Al-Mujadara

7. Tabouli

Tabouli is nothing but an Arabic salad. The recipe is generally cooked for dinner. The Tabouli is made with various items such as onions, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, olive oil, and so on. Sometimes, chefs add cucumber to the recipe of Tabouli.

Recipe for Tabouli

8. Hummus

Hummus is an internationally popular dish that features a tangy flavor along with an exceptional aroma. Hummus is used as a spread of beige color. To make this delicious spread, you will need mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, etc. The idea of Hummus has been prevalent in Syria for hundreds of years.

Recipe for Hummus

9. Booza

Booza is the middle eastern version of ice cream. For making Booza, you will require cream, milk, etc. Kashta is a popular booza flavor you can find in Syria. At your request, the chefs can add nuts, chocolate, and fruits to the recipe.

Recipe for Booza

10. Muhammara

Muhammara is a spicy dip quite popular in Syria. The main ingredients of the recipe are roasted red pepper, ground walnut, garlic, lemon juice, and so on. Molasses is a vital ingredient responsible for the color and taste of the Muhammara. This slightly sweet Muhammara features a smoky flavor. You can serve the dish with pita bread.

Recipe for Muhammara

Sources:

Wikipedia

Chef’s Pencil

Taste Atlas