The Best Type of Street Food in Lebanon
Lebanon is a small country located in the Middle East, known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The Lebanese cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean, Arabic, and French influences, resulting in a unique blend of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. One of the best ways to experience the Lebanese cuisine is through the country's street food. In this blog post, we will explore the best types of street food in Lebanon.
Manakish
Manakish is a popular Lebanese street food that is similar to pizza. It is made with a dough that is topped with a mixture of thyme, sesame seeds, and olive oil. Manakish can also be topped with cheese, meat, kishk (cracked wheat (Burghal) fermented with milk) or vegetables. It is baked in a wood-fired oven and served hot. Manakish is a great breakfast food and can be found at many street food vendors across Lebanon.
Saj
Similar to Manakish, Saj is a type of Lebanese flatbread that is cooked on a domed griddle called a saj. The bread is typically filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese or zaatar, and is then rolled up and served hot. Saj is often eaten as a snack or as a meal, and it is a popular breakfast option in villages in Lebanon.
Falafel
Falafel is a vegetarian dish made from ground chickpeas that are formed into small balls and deep-fried. It is typically served in a pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce. Falafel is a popular street food in Lebanon and can be found at many street vendors throughout the country.
Shawarma
Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish that is popular in Lebanon and around the world. It is made with thinly sliced meat that is marinated in spices and then roasted on a spit. The meat (beef or chicken) is typically served in a pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and garlic dip. Shawarma can be found at many street food vendors in Lebanon where you’ll find them on display hanging from large vertical broilers.
Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a popular Lebanese snack that is made from ground meat (beef or lamb) that is mixed with bulgur wheat and spices. It is formed into a ball or a torpedo shape and deep-fried. Kibbeh can be served as a snack or a main meal and can also be eaten raw.
Sfiha
Sfiha is a Lebanese pastry that is made with a dough that is topped with a mixture of ground meat (beef or lamb), onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is typically baked in a wood-fired oven and served hot. Sfiha is commonly accompanied by a Laban Ayran, a fresh yogurt drink.
Foul Mudammas
Foul Mudammas is a popular Lebanese breakfast dish that is made with fava beans that are cooked and mashed with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It is typically served with tomatoes, onions, and parsley, pickles and peppers. Foul Mudammas is usually eaten with pita bread and makes a fulfilling start to the day.
Kaak
Kaak is a Lebanese bread that is similar to a bagel. It is made with a dough that is formed into a ring shape and topped with sesame seeds. Kaak can be eaten with almost everything from Lebneh and Picon (cream cheese), to turkey and cheese, and Nutella.
Lebanon is a country with a rich culinary tradition, and its street food is a great way to experience the country's unique blend of flavors. Manakish, falafel, shawarma, kibbeh, sfiha, and foul are the perfect way to satisfy your cultural cravings! Stay tuned for our upcoming post about where to find the best of these traditional foods in Lebanon.
