Arizona is home to a diverse culinary scene, with many cuisines and cultures represented throughout the state. One such cuisine that has been gaining popularity in recent years is Middle Eastern cuisine. The Middle East is known for its rich flavors and use of spices, and the food is often healthy and flavorful. In this article, we will explore some of the best Middle Easter foods in Arizona and where you can find them.

Introduction to Middle Eastern Cuisine

Middle Eastern cuisine is a diverse and flavorful cuisine that is known for its use of spices and herbs. The cuisine is heavily influenced by Mediterranean, North African, and Indian flavors. Middle Eastern dishes are often made with fresh ingredients, including vegetables, legumes, and meats. Some popular Middle Eastern dishes include hummus, falafel, shawarma, and kebabs.

Where to Find Middle Eastern Foods in Arizona

If you are looking to explore the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine in Arizona, there are many restaurants and markets to choose from. Here are some of the best places to find Middle Eastern foods in Arizona:

Persian Room Fine Dining

Persian Room Fine Dining is a restaurant located in Scottsdale that offers traditional Persian cuisine. The restaurant has an elegant ambiance, and the menu features dishes such as lamb shank, koobideh kebab, and gheymeh bademjan.

Haji-Baba

Haji-Baba is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving Middle Eastern cuisine in Tempe for over 35 years. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and serves dishes such as falafel, shawarma, and baba ghanoush.

Middle Eastern Bakery & Deli

Middle Eastern Bakery & Deli is a market located in Phoenix that sells Middle Eastern groceries and prepared foods. The market offers a wide variety of foods, including hummus, tabbouleh, and stuffed grape leaves.

Baiz Fresh Foods

Baiz Fresh Foods is a market located in Phoenix that specializes in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean foods. The market offers a variety of fresh and prepared foods, including pita bread, kebabs, and baklava.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern cuisine is a flavorful and healthy cuisine that is becoming more popular in Arizona. Whether you are looking for a fine dining experience or a quick meal, there are many options available throughout the state. From Persian cuisine to Lebanese and Turkish, the Middle Eastern culinary scene in Arizona is diverse and worth exploring. So, next time you are looking for a new and exciting cuisine to try, consider Middle Eastern cuisine and the many delicious dishes it has to offer.

FAQs

1. Is Middle Eastern cuisine spicy?

• Middle Eastern cuisine can be spicy, but not all dishes are spicy. It depends on the dish and the level of spice used in the recipe.

2. Is Middle Eastern cuisine healthy?

• Middle Eastern cuisine can be healthy, as many dishes are made with fresh ingredients and are low in fat. However, some dishes may be high in calories or sodium, so it’s important to choose wisely.

3. What is the national dish of the Middle East?

• There is no one national dish of the Middle East, as the cuisine varies widely from country to country. However, some popular dishes include hummus, falafel, and shawarma.