2 April, 2023
A Beginner’s Guide to 2 Healthy (and Delicious!) Lebanese Recipes

Welcome to Zahli Restaurant, the ultimate destination for authentic Lebanese cuisine in The Rocks, Sydney.

The restaurant takes inspiration from Zahlé, a beautiful area in Lebanon known for its traditions of mezza and dining outdoors on the river banks. Zahli Restaurant brings this experience to life by offering a modern take on Middle Eastern food.

Our Executive Chef and his team use tradition as a foundation to create their interpretation of contemporary and flavoursome dishes. Zahli Restaurant aims to provide an unforgettable dining experience, unlike any other Lebanese restaurant in Sydney.

Is Lebanese food the same as Middle Eastern food?

Lebanese cuisine is considered a part of Middle Eastern cuisine , but it is not the same as all Middle Eastern cuisine. While there are some similarities between Lebanese and other Middle Eastern dishes, each country and region has its unique flavours, ingredients, and cooking techniques that distinguish their cuisine from one another. So, while Lebanese food can be considered a subset of Middle Eastern cuisine, it has its distinct characteristics and flavours. Some even dare claim that the Lebanese have perfected dishes from their regional neighbourhood.

Why is Lebanese cuisine considered healthy?

Lebanese cuisine is often considered healthy because it incorporates a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Lebanese dishes often use herbs and spices for flavour instead of relying on unhealthy fats and oils.

Additionally, many traditional Lebanese dishes are made with ingredients rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as chickpeas, lentils, parsley, and mint. Many Lebanese dishes are also naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Another reason why Lebanese food is often considered healthy is due to the country’s agricultural practices. Lebanon has a strong rural and village-oriented culture, where people still plant their food and do not rely solely on big supply chains. This means that many Lebanese dishes are made with locally-sourced, fresh ingredients that are in season and are often grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides.

This farm-to-table approach ensures that Lebanese food is delicious but also healthy and nutritious.

At Zahli, we understand the importance of using locally-sourced ingredients, and we work closely with local suppliers to bring the freshest produce to our customers’ tables. Using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients can provide our customers with the healthiest and most delicious Lebanese cuisine possible.

2 of the best Lebanese dishes to make that are foolproof

Lebanese cuisine is known for its flavourful dishes that combine fresh herbs and spices, vegetables, grains, and meats. Here are some of the best, and our favourite, Lebanese dishes to try, including their recipes:

DISH

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

ADDITIONAL NOTES

TABOULI
  • 1 cup of parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of mint, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of green onion, chopped
  • 2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup of bulgur wheat, soaked in water for 30 minutes
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine parsley, mint, and green onion.
  • Add the chopped tomatoes and soaked bulgur wheat to the bowl and mix well.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
  • Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving for the perfect crunch! 
Tabouli salad is a great side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken or lamb, or as a light lunch on its own. 
HOMMOS
  • 1 can of chickpeas , drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup of tahini
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of water
  • Optional toppings: paprika, chopped parsley, olive oil
  • In a food processor or blender, blend the chickpeas until they are finely mashed.
  • Add the tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and salt to the food processor or blender, and blend again until smooth.
  • While blending, drizzle in the olive oil and water until the hommos reaches your desired consistency.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of paprika, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Eat with fried bread is the perfect combination! 

 

We’ve given you a little insight into our world of Lebanese cooking. Save the effort and join us for a dining experience like no other. Don’t hesitate to contact us or reserve a table at our restaurant. Our team would be happy to assist you in any way we can.

We also recommend you check out our series of themed blog posts; they will inspire you and leave you craving a visit.