Middle Eastern Dips

The Middle Eastern table is empty without warm pita bread and a large variety of dips to scoop up and share between friends and family. An abundant mezze course (appetisers similar to tapas) commonly precedes the main course in countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Morocco, Israel, Egypt and Turkey.

These mezze are usually made from vegetables, pulses, herbs and aromatic spices and many more people are enjoying the once-exotic flavours of  hummus, Tahina, Persian Eggplant to name a few.

An added advantage is that these delicious mezze are very healthy. Some of the health benefits are:

HUMMUS   

Made from chickpeas, with the addition of Tahina, garlic and lemon     Hummus has a subtle nutty flavour and smooth, creamy texture.

Health Benefits: Chickpeas are high in protein and healthy nutrients such as manganese, copper, phosphorus and iron. They are an excellent source of fibre, which is known to help lower cholesterol, fight heart disease and stabilize blood sugar levels.

TAHINA

Tahina is a paste made from ground sesame seeds and than made into a dip by blending with garlic and lemon juice.

Health Benefits: Sesame seeds are rich in copper, calcium, magnesium and high in iron,   phosphorous, vitamin B1 and zinc. Thus enjoying delicious Tahini dip can help lower cholesterol, prevent high blood pressure, and protect your liver from oxidative damage.

EGGPLANT   

Eggplant is perhaps the most commonly used vegetable in Middle Eastern cuisine, and features in many different dips throughout the region.

Health Benefits:  Eggplant is a good source of dietary fibre, potassium, manganese and    vitamin B1. It also an anti-oxidant that protects the brain cell membranes and is known to have anti-cancer, anti-microbial & anti-viral properties. Food for thought as you scoop up some of Taboon’s delicious Persian Eggplant.
At Taboon we make these and many more delicious dips that are perfect as a starter, snack or light lunch. They are also available in take home packs and bulk.