Freekeh (frikeh) is my number one grain and preferred starch to use. I find it so versatile to cook with and I cherish the unique, nutty undertone and smoky aroma it carries. This ancient grain is typical to the cuisine of the Middle East. Growing up I enjoyed it the traditional way in the quintessential freekeh ma' djej/ Lahm or freekeh with chicken and/or meat. However, freekeh can be used in risottos, salads (this salad was a big hit when I...
Notice anything different? Yup. DKS has just had a face lift. Just a little nip tuck to help make space for more content like the new section called "The Lebanese Pantry" where you can find information about the key ingredients used in Lebanese cuisine. I've also added a section called "The Mediterranean Diet" which brings together wholesome, nutritious recipes that incorporate essential ingredients to the Mediterranean diet; grains, pulses and...
Once more, I will express my undying love for chickpeas: I Am M.A.D About Chickpeas! After all, how can one not succumb to such a delectable and pulsing love affair! The chickpea, belonging to the protein food group, is such a versatile and wholesome leguminous pulse. You can make anything out of it; falafel, all kinds of hummus dips, veggie burgers, bread, and it's also a perfect addition to stews, curries, salads... I could go on and on. And,...
Family road trips or even day trips can be mind-blowing. I mean that in a good way. I really really do. As we are always up for a good laugh, a good cry or just a good mental breakdown, we decided that we would make a day trip to Baalback, all of us, together, in one car. This day trip would include my father, my step-mother Aliona, her daughter Alina, my brother Eli, and let's not forget me. Baalbeck is home to some of the biggest temples ever...
I've procrastinated for about a year now about filming a video recipe... Mainly because I knew how amateur it was going to look and as you can see it is! BUT, I guess I did have some fun and broke the ice as they say. I used a canon powershot, secured on a tri-pod, and this was a one-woman show. In fact, I think it's also pertinent you know that I passed on a shopping trip. Dedicated I know :) That's my niece enjoying a burger with no...
Kebbeh, the national dish of Lebanon, is an emulsification of the freshest minced lamb and burghul with essential 7-spices. In the old days, Lebanese women would pound the meat and the burghul in a mortar and pestle then knead in the spices, a process which can be excruciatingly exhausting. Oh hail, thou food processor! Kebbeh can be eaten raw (kebbeh naye) which is similar to steak tartare and is one of the popular methods of enjoying...
Hummus translates to the word chickpea in Arabic and here I'm sharing a recipe for chickpeas with tahini, which has become a popular dip the world over. It's very simple to make, all it is, is a handful of ingredients pulverised to a fine, velvety smooth dip. But it does require a little time and love. Lots of recipes call for it to be made from canned chickpeas, but honestly, if you try it from dry chickpeas you'll never go back. Whatever you...