Arab appetizers, known for their rich flavors and aromas, delight palates all over the world. Among the most popular are pita bread, deliciously crunchy after baking, perfect for dipping in hummus or tahini. The creamy curd, with its refreshing touch, is often accompanied by olive oil and mint. In addition, falafel, small fried balls of chickpeas or fava beans, are irresistible with their soft interior and special spices. Arab appetizers are an invitation to a unique gastronomic journey, full of tradition and authenticity, always leaving a taste of wanting more.
ARAB APPETIZERS
1. Baked Pita Bread
INGREDIENTS
- Pita bread (desired quantity)
PREPARATION METHOD
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Separate the pita breads into two layers (if they have pockets) so that they are thinner.
- Place the pita breads on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes or until lightly browned and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool before serving.
2. Homemade Tahini:
INGREDIENTS
- 1/2 cup tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1 chopped garlic clove (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
PREPARATION METHOD
- In a bowl, first mix the tahini and lemon juice until you have a smooth paste.
- Add the water little by little, stirring continuously until you get a smoother consistency.
- Add the chopped garlic (if using), cumin and salt, adjusting the seasoning according to your taste.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
- Finally, serve the tahini with the baked pita bread for dipping.
3. Ricotta cream:
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup ricotta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as basil, thyme or parsley) for garnish (optional)
PREPARATION METHOD
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta and olive oil until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the ricotta cream to a serving dish.
- If desired, garnish with fresh herbs.
- Finally, serve with the baked pita bread.
Creamy curd:
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups natural yogurt (unsweetened)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Extra virgin olive oil (optional)
- Chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
PREPARATION METHOD
- In a bowl, first mix the natural yogurt and salt until the salt is well incorporated into the yogurt.
- Add the lemon juice and stir well to combine.
- Cover the bowl with a clean cloth or paper towel and let it rest at room temperature for 4 to 6 hours, or until the curd thickens and becomes creamy. The exact fermentation time may vary depending on the ambient temperature.
- Once the curd has reached the desired consistency, transfer it to the fridge to cool for at least 1 hour.
- When you're ready to serve, place the creamy curd on a serving plate and drizzle it with a little extra virgin olive oil (optional).
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped mint leaves to decorate.
- Finally, serve the creamy curd with the baked pita bread and other side dishes such as olives, cucumbers, tomatoes and leafy greens.
Now you have all the recipes to make your Arabic appetizers with tahini, pita bread, ricotta cream and creamy curd. All you have to do is assemble your appetizers in the way you prefer, either by spreading the tahini, ricotta cream or curd on the baked pita bread and adding other accompaniments such as olives, cucumbers, tomatoes and green leaves. Enjoy!
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