Famous “Superfoods” You’ve Been Eating Without Knowing
With today’s world being more interconnected than ever before, it’s hard for all of us foodies not to want to be more in on the latest eating trends of the world. And with the pace we go through trends, it feels like we’re getting new “superfoods” every month. However, what many may not know is that many of the trends picked up on the worldwide foodie radar lately, have been in Lebanese cuisine for centuries (under a different name) – either that or we have something that is just about the same.
Seed Butters
Nut butters have taken over the world. Enter the equally buzzed-about cousin: seed butters. The most popular of them being sesame paste/butter, also known as: tahini. That’s right! Recently, tahini has been making the rounds around the world and is being used in everything from sauces to salad dressings. One thing’s for sure, though, nothing will beat a good old fashioned tarator!
Cracked Wheat
Recently, this cereal has been turning heads for its nutritional benefits as well as its delicious taste and versatility. It originates from the Middle East and is a staple in Lebanese cuisine; and the reason you might not recognize the name is because we tend to call it burghul. Potato, po-tah-to – it’s all the same.
Kefir
Another popular superfood that’s been making the rounds on social media is kefir, a fermented milk drink hailed for providing large amounts of probiotics and promoting overall gut health. This product is very similar to a classic Ayran yogurt. Although they are made differently (Ayran is made from yogurt, whereas kefir is made from a fermented milk base), the result is almost the same: a refreshing, tangy drink (kefir being slightly more sour and bitter).
Ghee
Piggybacking off coconut oil’s success in the spotlight, ghee (commonly known as samne in Arabic) is finding its way into many kitchens around the world nowadays. Studies are finding that ghee could present a few health benefits over traditional butter, and is even easier to digest for those with lactose intolerant. Who knew that even our junk food was healthier?
Freekeh
For many years now, cereals have been taking the limelight as the world’s favorite “hearty foods”. Taking over bulgur’s newly-acquired fame, freekeh is now being praised for all the wonders it does to the body; but we already knew that. Harisseh, anyone?
