Textual Chef · recipe index
Middle Eastern recipes
122 entries. Each page is the complete recipe (ingredients, quantities, and method) reproduced at working size.
Adas (Red Lentil and Cumin Soup)
A silky, warming Levantine red lentil soup bloomed with cumin and finished with a bright drizzle of olive oil and lemon. Simple ingredients deliver deep, satisfying flavor in under
Adas Soup
A comforting Middle Eastern red lentil soup seasoned with cumin and finished with vibrant lemon juice.
Air Fryer Falafel
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside falafel balls made with chickpeas and aromatic herbs. Air-fried to golden perfection with minimal oil for a healthier take on this Middl
Aish El Saraya
A classic Middle Eastern dessert featuring syrup soaked toasted bread layered with rich cream and pistachios.
Arabic Rice
Fluffy long grain rice cooked with toasted vermicelli noodles in a light savory broth.
Arabic Salad
A finely diced salad of crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and herbs tossed with lemon and olive oil. Perfect as a light, refreshing side dish.
Arayes (Stuffed Grilled Pita)
Pita halves packed with spiced ground beef, onion, and parsley then grilled until the bread is charred and crisp and the meat is juicy throughout - a street-food staple from the Le
Ash-e Doogh
A traditional Persian yogurt soup filled with aromatic fresh herbs, rice, and chickpeas. Finished with a warm sizzled mint and garlic oil garnish.
Ash-e Reshteh
A thick Persian noodle soup packed with fresh herbs, legumes, fried mint, and tangy liquid whey.
Baba Ganoush
A smoky, silky Middle Eastern eggplant dip made by charring eggplants until the flesh is tender, then blending with tahini, lemon, and garlic. Serve with warm pita bread or fresh v
Balaleet
A classic Arabian Gulf breakfast dish featuring sweet, cardamom-spiced vermicelli topped with a savory egg omelet.
Bamia (Okra and Lamb Stew)
A beloved Levantine stew of tender lamb and whole okra pods simmered in a tangy tomato sauce fragrant with coriander and allspice, typically served over rice or with flatbread.
Bamieh
A savory Middle Eastern stew made with tender beef cubes and okra simmered in a garlic-infused tomato broth.
Basbousa
A sweet, moist semolina cake soaked in floral syrup and traditionally topped with almonds. This Middle Eastern favorite has a unique, slightly grainy texture from the semolina, bal
Batata Harra
Crispy roasted potato cubes tossed in a fragrant garlic, red chili, fresh cilantro, and lemon oil mixture.
Batata Harra (Spicy Potatoes)
Lebanese crispy fried potatoes tossed in a bold sauce of garlic, red chili, cilantro, and lemon juice. A popular mezze side that is fiery, herby, and utterly addictive.
Beef Sambusa
Crispy triangular pastries filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and warm spices.
Beef Shawarma
Thinly sliced flank steak marinated in citrus and warm spices, then seared hot for crisp edges and juicy meat.
Beef Shawarma Wraps
Tender slices of marinated beef seasoned with aromatic Middle Eastern spices, wrapped in warm flatbread with fresh vegetables and a creamy tahini sauce. This handheld meal is perfe
Beet and Walnut Salad with Tahini
Tender roasted or vacuum-packed beets paired with crunchy toasted walnuts on a silky tahini-lemon dressing, finished with fresh mint and a pinch of sumac. A vivid Levantine salad t
Beetroot Borani
A vibrant Persian yogurt dip featuring grated beets mixed with garlic, fresh herbs, and olive oil.
Bouza
A traditional Middle Eastern stretchy ice cream flavored with aromatic mastic resin and floral rose water. It is churned until dense and elastic, then rolled in vibrant crushed pis
Cauliflower Shawarma Bowl
Whole cauliflower florets roasted in bold shawarma spices until caramelized and tender, served over a bed of herbed greens with cucumber, tomato, and a creamy tahini drizzle.
Charred Tomato and Pepper Shakshuka
Elevated shakshuka with charred tomatoes and roasted peppers poached with eggs. Smoky, savory, and restaurant-quality.
Chicken Fatteh
A festive Levantine layered dish of toasted pita topped with tender spiced chicken, chickpeas, garlicky yogurt sauce, and toasted pine nuts - served warm and assembled just before
Chicken Kebab
Juicy chicken thighs marinated in spiced yogurt, lemon, and garlic, then grilled to smoky perfection.
Chicken Shawarma
Juicy chicken thighs marinated in a fragrant spice blend with citrus and garlic, then roasted to tender perfection with crispy edges.
Chicken Shawarma Plate
Middle Eastern-spiced marinated chicken thighs roasted until crisp-edged and juicy, served as a plated meal alongside fluffy rice, creamy garlic sauce, cucumber-tomato salad, and w
Chickpea Fatteh
A classic layered dish of crispy toasted pita, warm seasoned chickpeas, garlic yogurt sauce, and toasted pine nuts.
Chorbat Adas
A comforting Middle Eastern red lentil soup simmered with warm cumin and finished with fresh lemon juice.
Couscous Salad
A light Mediterranean style dish packed with fluffy couscous, fresh herbs, crunchy cucumber, and sweet cherry tomatoes tossed in a lemon dressing.
Crispy Chicken Shawarma Wrap
The viral TikTok wrap: shawarma-spiced chicken rolled in a flour tortilla with garlic sauce and pickles, brushed with spiced red oil, and pressed on a griddle until shatteringly cr
Crispy Falafel
A traditional Middle Eastern staple made from ground chickpeas, fresh green herbs, and warm spices, fried to a golden crunch.
Cucumber Yogurt Salad
A refreshing side dish of crisp cucumbers folded into garlic yogurt with mint and olive oil. Perfect chilled alongside grilled grains or meats.
Dubai Chocolate Bars
The viral thick milk chocolate bar filled with toasted kataifi, pistachio cream, and a touch of tahini. Plan ahead: bars need 1 hour in the fridge to set.
Dubai Tacos
The 2026 spinoff of the viral chocolate bar: crisp waffle taco shells filled with pistachio cream and toasted kataifi, drizzled with melted chocolate.
Dukkah Eggs
Soft or hard-boiled eggs coated in Egyptian dukkah spice blend. Nutty, savory, and perfectly spiced. Trending breakfast showstopper.
Eggs with Sujuk
A quick, spiced Middle Eastern breakfast of sujuk sausage sauteed until crispy, then eggs cracked directly into the pan and cooked in the rendered fat for a bold, protein-rich morn
Ezme Salad
A finely hand-chopped tomato and pepper salad dressed with tangy pomegranate molasses and aromatic spices.
Falafel with Tahini Sauce
Crispy chickpea falafel served with creamy tahini sauce, fresh veggies, and pita. A Middle Eastern vegetarian favorite.
Fatayer Sabanekh (Spinach Hand Pies)
Soft, lemon-kissed spinach and onion filling tucked inside tender yeasted dough and baked to a golden finish - a beloved Levantine hand pie served warm or at room temperature. Plan
Fattoush
A vibrant Levantine bread salad combining toasted pita chips, crisp fresh vegetables, and a tart sumac dressing.
Fava Bean Salad
Tender fava beans tossed with ripe tomatoes, crisp red onion, and fresh parsley in a garlic lemon dressing.
Foul Mudammas Breakfast Bowl
A hearty Middle Eastern breakfast of slow-simmered fava beans mashed with lemon, garlic, and olive oil, served with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and warm pita for scooping.
Freekeh Salad
A smoky grain salad tossed with fresh herbs, crisp cucumber, and tart pomegranate seeds. Dressed simply with lemon and olive oil for a bright finish.
Freekeh Soup
A comforting Middle Eastern soup featuring cracked green wheat, tender chicken, and warm spices in a rich broth.
Freekeh with Pomegranate and Herbs
Smoky roasted green wheat grain tossed with tart pomegranate molasses, fresh herbs, and jewel-like pomegranate seeds. Nutty, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
Ful Medames
A classic dish of warmed fava beans mashed with garlic, cumin, and lemon juice, finished with fresh toppings and extra virgin olive oil.
Halloumi Fries
Golden, crispy-edged halloumi cheese strips pan-fried until squeaky and caramelized, served with a bright lemon-herb dipping sauce. A fast, crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in under
Harissa Chickpea Stew
North African spiced chickpea stew with tomatoes, carrots, and aromatic harissa paste. Warming, aromatic, and naturally vegetarian.
Honey Baklava
A classic Middle Eastern dessert featuring layers of flaky phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and sweet honey syrup. This rich, sweet pastry is perfect for special occasions.
Hummus Beiruty
A spicy Lebanese chickpea dip blended with creamy tahini, garlic, fresh lemon juice, parsley, and minced chili peppers.
Hummus with Spiced Meat
Smooth, creamy hummus topped with warm, aromatic spiced ground lamb and toasted pine nuts. A hearty Middle Eastern classic perfect for sharing or as a main dish.
Israeli Salad
A crisp and colorful diced vegetable salad lightly dressed with olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
Jallab
A refreshing Levantine beverage made with grape and rose water syrup, topped with crushed ice, raisins, and pine nuts - a fragrant, jewel-colored drink popular at celebrations and
Jibneh Nabulsi
A traditional Palestinian semi-hard white cheese seasoned with aromatic mahlab, resinous mastic, and black nigella seeds. It is boiled in brine to produce a firm texture that holds
Kafta bil Sayniyeh (Baked Kofta with Potatoes)
A Lebanese home-cook staple of spiced ground beef pressed into a baking pan, layered with sliced potatoes and tomatoes, then oven-roasted in a seasoned tomato sauce until everythin
Kanafeh
Crispy shredded kataifi pastry layered with molten cheese and soaked in aromatic orange blossom syrup.
Knafeh
Shredded phyllo dough layered over a stretchy akkawi or mozzarella cheese filling, baked until golden-crisp, then soaked in fragrant rose water syrup and garnished with crushed pis
Kofta Kebab
Juicy spiced ground lamb skewers mixed with fresh parsley, garlic, and aromatic spices. Perfectly grilled for a smoky exterior and tender interior.
Labneh
A thick, strained yogurt cheese infused with salt and topped with olive oil and za'atar. It offers a tangy flavor and velvety texture perfect for dipping.
Labneh Salad
A refreshing dish featuring creamy strained yogurt layered with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, fresh mint, and za'atar.
Labneh with Olive Oil and Za'atar
Thick, tangy strained yogurt spread generously with extra-virgin olive oil and earthy za'atar, served with warm flatbread and fresh vegetables for a simple Levantine breakfast. Pla
Lahmacun
Thin and crispy flatbreads topped with a spiced ground lamb, herb, and vegetable mixture.
Lamb Kofta Kebabs
Spiced ground lamb shaped around skewers and grilled until charred and juicy, served with warm flatbread and cooling yogurt sauce. Plan ahead: soak wooden skewers in water for at l
Loubia (Green Bean and Tomato Stew)
A Levantine braised side dish of tender green beans slow-simmered in garlicky tomato sauce with olive oil and warm spices. Serve warm or at room temperature alongside rice or bread
Maamoul (Date-Filled Cookies)
Buttery semolina shortbread shells with a spiced date and rose water filling, pressed into decorative molds and dusted with powdered sugar - the quintessential Levantine holiday co
Maftoul with Chicken and Chickpeas
A festive Palestinian one-pot dish of hand-rolled giant couscous (maftoul) cooked in richly spiced chicken broth with tender braised chicken thighs and hearty chickpeas. Warming, f
Maghlouba Soup
A comforting soup inspired by the traditional layered rice dish, combining tender chicken, spices, cauliflower, eggplant, and rice in a warm broth.
Manakish Za'atar
Traditional Levantine flatbread topped with an aromatic mixture of wild thyme za'atar blend and extra virgin olive oil. Baked until golden with soft, airy edges.
Mansaf
The national dish of Jordan, consisting of tender slow-braised lamb served over a bed of saffron rice and flatbread, all drenched in a rich fermented dried yogurt sauce called jame
Maqluba (Upside-Down Rice)
A dramatic Palestinian and Jordanian rice dish layered with spiced chicken, fried eggplant, and cauliflower that is flipped upside-down onto a platter to reveal a stunning tower of
Mint Lemonade
A bright, herb-forward lemonade blended with a generous handful of fresh mint for a vivid green color and intensely refreshing flavor. Perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Mixed Vegetable Torshi
A traditional Middle Eastern pickled vegetable condiment with crunchy cauliflower, carrots, and aromatic spices steeped in tangy vinegar.
Muhallebi (Rosewater Milk Pudding)
A silky, lightly set milk pudding perfumed with rose water and orange blossom, topped with crushed pistachios and a drizzle of pomegranate molasses - a delicate, refreshing dessert
Muhammara (Roasted Pepper Walnut Dip)
A bold Syrian dip of charred roasted red peppers and toasted walnuts blended with pomegranate molasses and Aleppo pepper for a sweet, smoky, and gently spiced spread. Pairs beautif
Mujadara
A deeply satisfying Levantine dish of lentils and rice slow-cooked together and piled high with deeply caramelized onions, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and cumin.
Mujadara (Lentils and Rice with Crispy Onions)
A classic Levantine staple of green lentils and long-grain rice simmered in spiced broth, crowned with deeply caramelized crispy onions and a drizzle of olive oil. Simple, hearty,
Mulukhiyah Soup
A silky Middle Eastern herb soup made with tender jute leaves, garlic, and simmered chicken in a savory broth.
Musabakha
A warm Levant chickpea dish served in a creamy garlic tahini sauce. Features a rustic texture with whole warm chickpeas folded into a lightly mashed tahini base.
Musakhan (Sumac Roast Chicken)
The quintessential Palestinian roast chicken dish: bone-in thighs roasted over a bed of deeply caramelized sumac-spiced onions and layered onto flatbread soaked in olive oil and ch
Mutabal
A smoky Middle Eastern eggplant dip blended with creamy tahini, tangy yogurt, garlic, and lemon juice.
Pan Seared Halloumi with Honey
Golden pan-seared halloumi cheese finished with sweet honey, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic za'atar. A simple savory appetizer with crisp edges and a warm interior.
Persian Ash Reshteh (Herb Noodle Soup)
A thick, beloved Persian new-year soup loaded with legumes, fresh herbs, reshteh noodles, and finished with crispy fried onions and kashk (whey). Plan ahead: soak dried beans overn
Pickled Turnips
Crisp turnip batons pickled with red beet for a distinct pink hue and sharp, tangy flavor. Ideal as a crunchy condiment for sandwiches, wraps, and grilled meats.
Pomegranate Mint Cooler
A vibrant, jewel-red sparkling drink made with pomegranate juice, fresh mint, lime juice, and soda water. Refreshing and naturally beautiful with no cooking required.
Pomegranate Molasses Roasted Chicken
Juicy roasted chicken glazed with tart pomegranate molasses and warming spices. Tender, glistening, and deeply flavored.
Qatayef
Middle Eastern stuffed pancakes filled with spiced walnuts, fried until golden, and soaked in aromatic sugar syrup.
Quinoa Tabbouleh with Pomegranate
A bright, refreshing twist on classic tabbouleh using protein-rich quinoa in place of bulgur, tossed with masses of fresh parsley, mint, tomato, and jewel-like pomegranate seeds. P
Roasted Cauliflower with Pomegranate and Tahini
Crispy roasted cauliflower topped with tart pomegranate molasses, creamy tahini sauce, and fresh pomegranate seeds. Trending and magnificent.
Roasted Cauliflower with Tahini
Deeply caramelized cauliflower florets roasted with cumin and smoked paprika, then drizzled with a creamy tahini-lemon sauce and topped with fresh parsley and pine nuts.
Sabich
Israeli street food sandwich filled with roasted eggplant, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tahini sauce. Crispy, creamy, and utterly delicious.
Salata Arabieh (Chopped Cucumber Tomato Salad)
A crisp, refreshing Levantine salad of finely diced cucumber, ripe tomato, and fresh herbs dressed simply with olive oil and lemon juice. A staple alongside grilled meats, hummus,
Shakshouka
Gently poached eggs resting in a warm, spiced tomato and pepper sauce finished with herbs and cheese.
Shakshuka
A flavorful Middle Eastern dish featuring eggs poached in a spiced tomato and pepper sauce. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, served with crusty bread for dipping.
Shanklish
A traditional Middle Eastern seasoned cheese appetizer coated in za'atar and served with diced tomatoes and olive oil.
Sheikh Al Mahshi (Stuffed Eggplant)
Whole eggplants are hollowed out, stuffed with spiced ground beef and pine nuts, then braised in a rich tomato sauce until silky and tender - a classic Levantine comfort dish.
Shirat
A deeply savory Middle Eastern beef broth soup simmered with warm spices, onions, and tomato. Rich and fragrant, it is traditionally served warm alongside flatbread.
Shish Tawook
Juicy marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection with garlic, yogurt, and warm spices.
Shorbat Adas
A traditional Middle Eastern red lentil soup infused with cumin and turmeric, blended until silky and finished with fresh lemon.
Shorbat Addas
A comforting Middle Eastern red lentil soup infused with warm cumin, fresh garlic, and lemon juice. Smooth and velvety, it offers a nourishing meal served with lemon wedges.
Shorbat Banadura
A comforting Middle Eastern tomato soup simmered with rice, garlic, and subtle warm spices. It offers a light yet flavorful broth perfect for a quick meal.
Shorbat Djaj
A comforting chicken soup infused with warm spices, lemon, and rice.
Shorbat Freekeh (Smoked Wheat Soup)
A hearty Levantine soup built on smoky cracked freekeh simmered with slow-cooked chicken, warm spices, and a bright squeeze of lemon. Rich, nutty, and deeply comforting.
Shorbat Frikeh
A comforting Middle Eastern green wheat soup simmered with tender chicken, warm spices, and a touch of lemon.
Simit
A traditional Turkish sesame-crusted circular bread featuring a crunchy outer layer and a soft, chewy interior.
Smash Falafel Pita
Chickpea falafel batter smashed flat directly in a hot skillet instead of rolled into balls, giving a thin, lacy-edged patty tucked into warm pita with tahini.
Spiced Lentil Salad
A vibrant herbal salad featuring tender green lentils tossed in a warm cumin and coriander dressing with fresh parsley and mint.
Spinach and Feta Borek
Crispy layers of golden phyllo pastry filled with a savory blend of spinach, feta, and creamy ricotta cheese.
Stuffed Grape Leaves
Tender grape leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of rice, fresh herbs, onion, and lemon. Served chilled or at room temperature as a classic appetizer.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)
Lebanese-style grape leaves stuffed with seasoned ground beef and rice, stacked over lamb chops and simmered in a tangy tomato-lemon broth until the rolls are silky and tender.
Sumac Onions
A tart, vibrant condiment made with thinly sliced red onions tossed with citrusy sumac, fresh parsley, and olive oil.
Tabbouleh Salad
A refreshing Middle Eastern salad of bulgur, cilantro, tomatoes, cucumber, and mint tossed in lemon and olive oil.
Tahini Sauce
A creamy Middle Eastern sesame sauce made with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Drizzle over falafel, roasted vegetables, grain bowls, or use as a rich dipping sauce.
Tarator
A classic Middle Eastern creamy tahini sauce blended with garlic, fresh lemon juice, and chopped parsley.
Vegan Chickpea Shawarma Wraps
Crispy roasted chickpeas spiced with classic shawarma blend - cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika - wrapped in warm flatbread with tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy tahini
Yogurt and Spinach Soup
A creamy, tangy Middle Eastern soup made by gently tempering thick yogurt into a warm spinach and garlic base, finished with a sizzling butter and paprika drizzle. Silky, comfortin
Z'hug
Israeli herbaceous green sauce with cilantro, parsley, garlic, and spices. Vibrant, punchy, and utterly addictive. Trending everywhere.
Za'atar Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken thighs coated in aromatic za'atar spice blend with olive oil and lemon. Crispy exterior, tender inside, and bursting with Middle Eastern flavors.
Za'atar Manaeesh
A traditional Middle Eastern flatbread topped with an aromatic blend of za'atar and olive oil. Baked until golden with soft, chewy centers and lightly crisp edges.
Za'atar Manousheh
A classic Middle Eastern flatbread topped with an aromatic, earthy mixture of za'atar herbs and olive oil.
Za'atar Roasted Vegetables
Vibrant seasonal vegetables coated in nutty za'atar spice blend, roasted until caramelized. Serve warm or cold with tahini drizzle.
Cook free, in peace
Textual Chef is 4,512 plain-text recipes, free to read and free to cook from. No account, no paywall, no ads, no life stories. Open any of them in the app and each quantity sits inside the step that uses it, so you read once and cook.
Every recipe is curated or public-domain sourced, written to one template and checked before it publishes. Nothing here is a scraped blog post.
Open the appNo download needed. It opens in your browser. The kitchen tools (planner, shopping list, pantry, import) are $5.33 a month billed annually; the first 30 days are free.