A Guide to Middle Eastern Mezze and Shared Plates
In Middle Eastern cultures, food is far more than sustenance—it's a way of bringing people together. At the heart of this culinary tradition is mezze, a colorful spread of small dishes meant to be shared. Mezze isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of hospitality, conversation, and variety.
What Is Mezze?
Derived from the Persian word mazzeh, meaning “taste” or “snack,” mezze refers to a variety of small plates typically served as appetizers but often forming an entire meal. Common throughout the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East—including countries like Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Turkey, Israel, and Greece—mezze varies slightly by region but always emphasizes bold flavors and shared experience.
A Feast of Flavors
Mezze can include both hot and cold dishes, vegetarian and meat options, and a wide range of textures and spices. Here are some staples you’re likely to encounter:
- Hummus: A creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Baba Ghanoush: Roasted eggplant mixed with tahini, olive oil, and lemon.
- Labneh: Strained yogurt often served with olive oil and za'atar.
- Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad of parsley, bulgur, tomato, mint, and lemon.
- Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from chickpeas or fava beans, served with tahini sauce.
- Dolma (Stuffed Grape Leaves): Filled with rice, herbs, and sometimes meat.
- Kibbeh: Ground meat and bulgur wheat shaped into balls or patties, often fried or baked.
- Manakish: Flatbread topped with za'atar, cheese, or meat.
- Sambousek: Small savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.
The Art of Sharing
One of the defining aspects of mezze is how it's served: communally. A mezze spread is placed in the center of the table, inviting guests to sample, dip, scoop, and savor each bite at their own pace. It’s an interactive experience that encourages conversation, laughter, and connection.
Pairing and Presentation
Mezze is often accompanied by warm pita bread or flatbread, perfect for scooping up dips and spreads. It’s commonly paired with beverages like arak (an anise-flavored spirit), mint tea, or wine, depending on the region.
Presentation is also key: small ceramic plates, vibrant garnishes, and a variety of colors and textures make a mezze table as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Mezze Around the Region
While the concept is shared across countries, the specific dishes and flavors can vary:
- Lebanon: Emphasizes fresh herbs, citrus, and a wide vegetarian variety.
- Turkey: Incorporates more seafood and olive oil-based dishes.
- Palestine and Jordan: Include heartier items like musakhan or maqluba as part of a larger spread.
- Iran: Though not traditionally referred to as mezze, the idea of small shared dishes (like mast-o-khiar, a yogurt and cucumber dip) plays a similar role.
Why Mezze Matters
In a world where fast food and individual meals dominate, mezze offers a refreshing return to shared dining. It slows things down, fosters community, and honors tradition. Whether at a family table in Beirut or a trendy restaurant in New York, mezze connects people through food.
Final Thoughts
Mezze is more than a collection of dishes—it's a cultural philosophy. It reflects values of generosity, hospitality, and pleasure in food. So next time you’re looking to host a dinner with warmth and flair, consider going the mezze route: small plates, big heart.
