HUMMUS RECIPES
There is no doubt about the popularity of hummus, which is a staple on tables in the Middle East region, and has become a favorite buy the world over.
Serves 5 | Prep/cooking 65 mins
INGREDIENTS |
- 250g chickpeas
- 1tbs baking soda
- 10g garlic
- 75g olive oil
- 350g tahini
- 250g lemon juice
- 4 ice cubes
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of paprika&parsley (optional)
PREPARATION |
- Soak the chickpeas in cold water overnight (minimum of 10 hours) adding baking soda .
- The next day, remove the water and pour into a pot, add water and bring to boil over a high flame.
- Skim off foam that comes to surface. then once the water boils, lower the heat until the chickpeas have softened, around 20 minutes (it will break between your fingers).
- Drain the chickpeas but keep about 1 cup of the water in the pot. Set aside to cool while you prepare the other ingredients. Keep about 1/4 cup of the chickpeas for garnish.
- Make a creamy paste by adding the chickpeas in a food processor for a few minutes, then add ice cubes, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. taste to adjust seasoning.
- Pour the hummus in a bowl, garnish with the whole chickpeas and a little extra-virgin olive oil , parsley and sprinkling of paprika are optional. Serve with bread.
Originally from Serbia, Chef Biljana Nava Villarreal is the Executive Chef at ME Dubai. We had the opportunity to sit down with her and learn more about her culinary journey.
Tell us about your professional journey.
My name is Biljana Nava Villarreal, and I am currently the Executive Chef at ME Dubai. Hailing from Serbia, I bring a rich tapestry of cultural influences and experiences to my role. At ME Dubai, I oversee various responsibilities, from crafting menus and developing recipes to managing food costing and staff training. I work closely with the Hygiene Manager to uphold HACCP standards and ensure a safe and hygienic environment. Additionally, I lead the Culinary Audit process and oversee F&B operations, enhancing the hotel’s dining offerings.
Prior to joining ME Dubai, I served as Sous Chef at Hyatt Regency Creek Heights and contributed my expertise to esteemed establishments like Jumeirah Beach Hotel and various Hyatt Regency locations, including in my hometown of Belgrade.
Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve been honored with several accolades, including Silver Medals at prestigious international competitions such as the WACS International Young Chef Competition in Johannesburg and Seoul.
What is your Philosophy / Motto?
My philosophy is simple: “One dish at a time.”
What is your dream in life?
As a chef, my dream is to open a vibrant taco shop that celebrates flavor exploration, creativity, and community connection. I aim to share innovative Mexican cuisine, create joyful dining experiences, and celebrate the artistry of tacos.
What are your current projects and plans?
I am currently focused on developing innovative menus using sustainable ingredients sourced from local farmers. My goal is to create culinary experiences that positively impact the environment and community, aligning with a vision of responsible gastronomy.
WHAT’S NEW |
DUBAI FOOD FESTIVAL 2024: A CULINARY EXTRAVAGANZA BECKONS
Dubai food festival kicks off this week from April 19th till May 12th, 2024 for its 11th edition.
35+ Of OUR FAVORITE NON ORIENTAL PASTRY SHOPS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
A whole world of sweet treats awaits. This guide will be your passport to a sugary paradise, leading you through the delectable labyrinths of non oriental pastry shops in the Middle East. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a journey of unforgettable flavors with these 35+ pastry shops!
EGYPT
EL ABD PATISSERIE
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Recommended orders: cookies, hazelnut Swiss roll, and chocolate wafer cone.
LA POIRE
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Recommended orders: choco-caramel torte, strawberry trifle bowl, and jam mille feuille.
PAIN DES ROIS
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Recommended orders: almond croissant, twist chocolate chips, and cruffle.
SIMONDS
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Recommended orders: nutella Swiss roll, tiramisu, and lotus brownie.
JORDAN
RAWAN CAKE
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Recommended orders: mousse cake, strawberry tart, and honey cheesecake.
SUGAR DADDY’S BAKERY
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Recommended orders: tiramisu cupcake, apricot cream cheese bars, and peanut butter temptations.
THE CAKERY
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Recommended orders: mini cheesecake bites, mixed berry tart, and orange tea cake.
THE CAKE SHOP
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Recommended orders: pomegranate trifle, cheesecake mini jar, and red velvet.
KUWAIT
BON
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Recommended orders: mango trifel, vanilla Swiss roll, and berry pom trifel.
L’AMANDE PATISSERIE
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Recommended orders: strawberry macarons, mini raspberry tart, and cinnamon truffles.
WHILE I’M BAKED
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Recommended orders: fudgy chocolate cake, choco chunk walnut cookies, and chewy chai sugar cookies.
LEBANON
CANELLE PATISSERIE
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Recommended orders: casis macarons, eclair, and tarte au citron.
DES CHOUX ET DES IDEES
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Recommended orders: choux, croissant, and lemon tart.
EMOTIONS PATISSIER & GLACIER
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Recommended orders: truffes au chocolat Valrhona grand cru, tarte aux abricots, and tarte chocolat et caramel au beurre salé.
GUSTAV INNOVATION SUCREE
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Recommended orders: eclairs, carrot cake balls, and creme brulee.
LA MIE DOREE
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Recommended orders: mini eclairs, tarte aux fruits des bois, cupcakes.
LE NOIR
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Recommended orders: caramel saint honore, moist orange sansho, and caramelized fresh pineapple tonka.
NOURA
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Recommended orders: meringuette, succes praline, and japanese cheesecake.
OSLO
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Recommended orders: rose meringue, red velvet sable, and mini nutella tartine brownie.
PATE A CHOUX
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Recommended orders: strawberry macaron, raspberry eclair, and mango tarte.
OMAN
FRENCH BAKERY
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Recommended orders: caramel cheesecake, chocolate fudge, and almond croissant.
LADUREE OMAN
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Recommended orders: pineapple coco macaron, Marie-Antoinette tea eugenie, and plaisir sucre.
MODERN OMAN BAKERY
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Recommended orders: lemon mint slice, apple cinnamon crumble, and custard sandwich doughnut.
QATAR
MAGNOLIA BAKERY
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Recommended orders: cupcakes, banana pudding cookies, and red velvet cake.
OPERA PATISSERIE
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Recommended orders: blueberry cheesecake, chocolate mousse cup, and pistachio cup.
SOCIETE
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Recommended orders: mini eclairs, madeleines, and sacher cake.
SAUDI ARABIA
JAREER SWEETS
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Recommended orders: mango cheesecake, pomegranate cake, and lava cake.
PIERRE HERME
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Recommended orders: solento, choux celeste, and tarte infiniment yuzu.
PINK CAMEL
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Recommended orders: stuffed chocolate hazelnut brownies, lotus macarons, and brownie macarons.
UAE
AKKAD PATISSERIE
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Recommended orders: fraisier, strawberry and blackberry tart, and carrot cake.
BRIX CAFE
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Recommended orders: tiramisu croissant, the basque, and slice of luck.
HOME BAKERY
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Recommended orders: caramel donut sandwich, coconut bites, and pistachio tiramisu.
INES CHATTI PATISSERIE
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Recommended orders: fabacea, framboisier, parisian flan,
PISTACHOUX
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Recommended orders: choux, raspberry rose macarons, and cookies.
RISEN
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Recommended orders: creme brulee supreme, lotus cheesecake, and chocolate fudge cake.
LADUREE
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Recommended orders: pineapple coco macaron, Marie-Antoinette tea eugenie, and plaisir sucre.
RECOMMENDED BOOKS
PONZU SCALLOPS
By chef Biljana Nava Villarreal, Executive Chef at ME Dubai
Serves 2| Prep/cooking time 20 mins
INGREDIENTS |
- 4 pieces of Hokkaido scallops
- 30g of seaweed
Ponzu
- 6 tbsp of soy sauce
- 3 tbsp of yuzu juice (can be replaced with lime or orange juice)
- 3 tbsp of mirin
- 3 tbsp of water
- 1 piece of kombu
Jalapeno Granita:
- 25g of jalapeno
- 80g of cucumber
- 1 garlic clove
- 10g of fresh cilantro
- 15 ml of apple vinegar
- 20 ml water
- Pinch of salt
PREPARATION |
Step One – Jalapeno Granita
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Strain the liquid through a fine sieve and freeze overnight.
Step Two – Ponzu
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, yuzu juice, mirin, water, and kombu.
- Let the mixture marinate for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight.
Step Three – Scallops
- Carefully create an incision in the side of each scallop shell using a sturdy small knife.
- Open the shell gently with a sharp knife from one side to the other.
- Extract the scallop from the shell using a spoon and place it into a tray.
- Wash the scallops in cold water and remove the coral, skirt, and any side mussels.
- Pat the scallops dry with a kitchen cloth or paper towel.
- Apply pressure flat onto each scallop with your right hand and slice each scallop into four even slices.
Plate Up
- Add scallops to a mixing bowl with ponzu sauce and marinate for 3 minutes.
- Utilize the scallop shell as a secondary base on the plate and position the seaweed salad in the center.
- Arrange sliced scallops marinated in ponzu atop the seaweed.
- Grate the granita using a fork and place it on top of the scallops.
MEET THE CHEF
10 TIPS TO HEALTHY EATING OVER 50S
As our bodies change with time, what’s on our plate needs to change with it as well. And while we might be able to scarf down a donut or two in our 20s without second thought, it can have a larger impact on our blood sugar levels and risk for diabetes and heart disease when we get older.
Even if your physician hasn’t advised a dietary change, it’s wise to consider adjustments once you reach your 50s.
Here are some healthy tips to follow during this stage of life:
1- MAINTAINING A HEALTHY WEIGHT
Metabolism tends to slow with age, but poor diet and lack of exercise are primary culprits behind weight gain in your 50s. Strive to maintain a healthy weight by staying active and monitoring your diet. Two strategies can counteract a slowing metabolism: increasing muscle mass through exercise and consuming small, frequent meals throughout the day to keep metabolism active. Avoid skipping meals.
2- MAKING SMART FOOD CHOICES
Focus on quality rather than quantity. In your 50s, your body requires fewer calories but more nutrients. Opt for whole, fresh foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support optimal health. Incorporate a variety of colorful foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and bell peppers. Limit intake of empty calories from processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.
3- REPLACING REFINED CARBS WITH COMPLEX GRAINS
Swap refined breads and pastas for complex carbohydrates like brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, and oats. These grains are rich in fiber, promoting heart health and providing sustained energy for the body and brain.
4- INCORPORATING HEALTHY FATS
Reduce intake of saturated fats found in red meat, butter, and fried foods, which can negatively impact heart health and cognitive function. Instead, opt for healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fish (especially cold-water varieties like salmon, mackerel, and sardines), as well as walnuts, hemp seeds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds.
5- LIMITING SODIUM INTAKE
High sodium intake can increase the risk of heart disease and hypertension. Minimize sodium by avoiding excessive use of salt during cooking and opting for fresh herbs and spices for flavor. Be cautious of naturally salty foods like processed canned items, ready-made sauces, cheeses, cold cuts, and salty snacks.
6- PRIORITIZING HIGH-PROTEIN FOODS
Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle strength and repair, which becomes increasingly important in your 50s and beyond. Choose lean protein sources such as fish, seafood, chicken breast, lentils, beans, and nuts.
7- CONSUMING HIGH-CALCIUM FOODS
Maintain bone density and lower the risk of osteoporosis by incorporating calcium-rich foods into your diet. Sources include milk, cheese, Greek yogurt, fortified non-dairy milks, eggs, and leafy greens.
8- OBTAINING SUFFICIENT VITAMIN B-12
As nutrient absorption becomes less efficient with age, ensure an adequate intake of vitamin B-12 for healthy red blood cells and brain function. Sources include eggs, milk, lean meats, fish, and fortified cereals and grains.
9- STAYING HYDRATED
Age-related decreases in thirst perception can increase the risk of dehydration. Stay hydrated by consuming plenty of fluids such as water, teas, and infusions.
10- MAINTAINING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Regular exercise, in conjunction with a balanced diet, is essential for optimal health and fitness. Physical activity strengthens bones, helps prevent and manage heart disease and hypertension, and supports weight management.
OTHER ARTICLES YOU MAY LIKE
RESTAURANT IN LEBANON |
VILLA CLARA
Villa Clara, a Beirut-based hotel and restaurant concept founded by Chef Olivier Gougeon and Doctor in Business Marie-Hélène Moawad in 2011, is making a comeback after the tragic Beirut blast forced its closure. Now open under the name Villa Clara, located now in Saifi Village, it features two distinct entities side by side. Villa Clara, Le Comptoir, Café and Bar, offers approximately 20 seats and serves a variety of bites and sharing plates. On the other hand, Villa Clara, La Table, offers a dining experience centered around the ‘art de vivre’ concept, emphasizing aesthetics, attention to detail, and a refined taste. The restaurant features an open kitchen and accommodates 18 guests.
Additionally, Villa Clara can host private parties with a table accommodating up to 20 guests, and both establishments share an outdoor seating area.
The chef meticulously crafts the menu, attentively listening to the requests of their guests. With dedication and expertise, they aim to create unforgettable moments through culinary craftsmanship.
Date of opening: March 2024
Type of Cuisine: French cuisine curated by Chef Olivier Gougeon.
Recommended dishes: sole meuniere, filet de boeuf charolais, tarama de l île de Leros, and carpaccio de pouple mediteraneen.
Address: Said Akel, Beirut
OTHER RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN LEBANON
SHOPPING |
T&F’S HANDPICKED APRON COLLECTION
Looking to spice up your kitchen attire? Wondering where to find the perfect apron to match your culinary flair? Look no further! Feast your eyes on our curated collection of aprons!
LUFFY LEATHERS
Handcrafted from the finest quality leather, this apron exudes durability and sophistication, making it a statement piece for any culinary enthusiast or craftsman.
MYHOLDAL
Look good and stay dry and clean with this apron, whether you’re dealing with food, a hot grill or spilled drinks. With adjustable leather straps and a durable design, it is built to last.
RANA SALAM
A throwback to1960s Beirut Cortina ice cream company, Rana Salam chose this brand because of its stylish and charming graphics.
Explore a wider range of aprons you’re sure to adore at ranasalamshop.com
RAYANE’S BEAUTIFUL HOMES
This kitchen canvas apron ensures that your body is covered well to keeps your clothes from dirty while cooking, painting, or doing heavy duty work.
SAVVY DESIGNS
This apron serves as the ultimate gag and cooking gift for food enthusiasts and budding chefs who enjoy preparing delicious meals for family and friends.
XHBT SHOP
This apron is ideal for cooking enthusiasts who adore their pristine white shirts but dread the inevitable spills. Designed to fit all sizes comfortably, it not only offers protection but also arrives in exceptionally cool packaging.
ARE YOU A COFFEE SNOB OR A COFFEE CONNOISSEUR?
Are you more inclined towards trendy cafes or passionate about exploring bean origins? Determine whether you lean towards being a coffee enthusiast with a penchant for trendy spots or a true connoisseur who appreciates the origins and nuances of coffee beans in this entertaining analysis!
In today’s hip coffee scene, where cafes are more like coffee sanctuaries, people have become pickier about their brews. It’s not just about getting your caffeine fix anymore; it’s about embarking on a flavor adventure, diving into the depths of coffee origins, and exploring brewing methods like you’re on a caffeinated journey to enlightenment. This shift in coffee culture has created two distinct camps: the coffee snobs and coffee connoisseurs. Which one are you?
COFFEE SNOBS VS. COFFEE CONNOISSEURS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
So, what sets these coffee camps apart? Well, a coffee snob is all about appearances. They’re into trendy coffee joints, limited edition blends, and fancy packaging. For them, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a lifestyle statement. They might be the first to try the newest oat milk latte variation at a hyped pop-up shop and document the entire experience on social media.
On the flip side, a coffee connoisseur is all about the nitty-gritty of coffee—its production, processing, and brewing. They savor every sip, picking up on flavors, aromas, and textures like it’s a fine wine tasting. They’re all about the specialty beans, the single-origin brews, and the brewing methods that bring out the best in each bean. Connoisseurs might even grind their own beans at home with a fancy burr grinder and meticulously control every aspect of the brewing process using a pour-over method.
SO, WHICH COFFEE CAMP ARE YOU IN?
You’re a coffee snob if:
- Sleek branding, chic aesthetics, and marketing campaigns that scream exclusivity call your name.
- Buzzwords like “limited edition” and “artisanal” get you excited.
- Your Instagram feed is overflowing with latte art.
- Your coffee needs its own instagrammable moment.
- A coffee shop needs to have plenty of customization options because you love to personalize your brews with flavored syrups, alternative milks, and extra shots.
You’re a coffee connoisseur if:
- Your focus is always on the beans. You can differentiate between a Kenyan and a Colombian roast based on their tasting notes.
- Quality and authenticity are what you’re looking for. You appreciate ethically sourced beans and support local roasters.
- You discuss brewing techniques like a pro. You can explain the difference between a Chemex and a French press and know how each method impacts the final cup.
- You want to know where your coffee is from. You’re curious about the origin story of your beans and appreciate the hard work that goes into every cup.
- The more information you have on a certain type of bean, the more excited you are to try it. You love exploring new flavor profiles and appreciate the complexity of specialty coffee.
At the end of the day, whether you are coffee snobs or coffee connoisseurs, the goal is the same: to drink an unforgettable coffee experience. There’s no shame in enjoying a beautifully crafted latte or appreciating the intricate details of a well-brewed single-origin cup. The important thing is to find what brings you joy in your coffee journey.
DISCOVER MORE
RESTAURANT IN OMAN |
CHAR
Muscat’s culinary scene gets a fiery injection with CHAR, a restaurant at the W Muscat hotel. CHAR blends indoor and outdoor seating, offering a cool ambience and fantastic views to complement its menu.
The focus here is on the grill, with a tempting selection of succulent prime steaks alongside other grilled specialties. But CHAR doesn’t limit itself to just grilled items. Diners can embark on a global culinary adventure with an extensive selection of global dishes.
CHAR’s atmosphere leans towards casual sophistication. The restaurant describes itself as having a “chic and stylish” feel, with an elegant terrace and a stylish indoor space. The dress code is smart casual, making it a great option for a relaxed yet refined evening out.
Prices reflect the restaurant’s upscale feel, falling into the high price range. However, the combination of a global menu, fantastic grilled options, stunning views, and a trendy ambience makes CHAR a potentially worthwhile splurge for a special occasion.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, CHAR offers a unique and flavorful dining experience in Muscat. For a fiery feast with a view, consider booking a table and letting CHAR take you on a global culinary adventure.
Cuisine International Cuisine
Recommended dishes: empanadas, asado style short ribs, salted praline ice cream with lemon tart.