An introduction to the Lebanese Mezze

When visitors come to Lebanon, the first thing they ask for is the Mezze, that famous spread of hors d'œuvres with its countless dishes. I always introduce them first to my own favorites - Hommos Tahina, Baba Ghannouge and Tabbouli. But these three dishes are only the nucleus of a Lebanese tradition that can feature 20, 50 or even 100 small plates of delicacies.

As delicious as the Mezze is, its popularity is based on more than food. Let me set the scene for you. The sun is bright, the sea is blue and the mountains stretch in the distance. A table, covered with a white cloth, is crowded to its very corners with small oval dishes of food - some exotic, some plain. The centerpiece of the Mezze is a veritable bouquet of whole lettuce, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers and radishes. Arabic (or pita) bread - essential to the Mezze - is also in abundant supply.

Eating from this collection of appetizers in the company of friends is one of my favorite pastimes. There is always a sense of occasion as you dip into the dishes with Arabic bread - sharing, comparing flavors, and allowing the conver-sation to roam where it will. The surprising thing about the Lebanese Mezze is that it is just as healthful as it is tasty. Like all Mediterranean countries, Lebanon bases much of its cuisine on olive oil - recommended for today's low cholesterol diet. Almost every ingredient in the Mezze comes with a seal of approval from the heart people -whether it's burghol (crushed wheat), chick peas, fava beans or vitamin rich Tabbouli.

Can I make this at home ? Most people ask me that and the answer is yes, thanks to Al Wadi Al Akhdar. Our modern factory selects and prepares these foods in the traditional way - like I do at home. They don't use additives and they avoid shortcuts that change authentic taste and consistency. Eggplant for Baba Ghannouge, for instance, is roasted to remove the skins. This ensures that you get that familiar smoky taste.

Here are some suggestions for creating a real Lebanese Mezze at home. With Al Wadi Al Akhdar providing the basic ingredients (inclu-ding the all - important virgin olive oil), putting this feast together should be fun and easy.
As we say in Lebanon,
"Sahtein"...bon appétit !