MID EAST BBQ: CHEF TALK and COOKING PROGRAM on Fattoush Salad, Lamb Kufte Kebabs AND Tamarind Iced “Tea”

Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to get ready for outdoor fun than a Middle Eastern inspired barbecue? Whether you are cooking from a grill in your backyard or your apartment kitchen, you can easily get into the spirit of the season with these simple and flavorful recipes!

The first barbecue goes back to prehistoric times in South Africa when early humans began cooking meats and vegetables over an open fire. Evidence discovered in the Middle East and Asia indicates a more complex technique of utilizing skewers for grilling marinated meats going back at least as early as the 17th century B.C.E.

The Arabic word kebab meaning “roasted meat” can be traced back to the ancient Mesopotamian word kababu meaning “frying” or “burning.” A kufta kebab is a type of ground meat mixed with spices and herbs, formed into a torpedo or round ball, and grilled. Throughout the Middle East, North Africa, Mediterranean, and Central Asia home cooks as well as professional chefs take pride in their varied spiced and grilled meat dishes, complimenting them with fresh, colorful salads.

In this interactive hands-on seminar Jennifer will teach you how to easily prepare a spiced ground meat kebab with allspice, ginger and paprika, accompanied by a traditional herb salad with za’tar, mint, and pita chips that pairs perfectly with a tangy and refreshing drink of tamarind and lemon. Participants will come away with an increased understanding of how to arrange a balanced menu of bright and earthy flavors that brings the Middle East closer to home.

MENU:

• Tangy Tamarind “Iced Tea” with Lemon
• Fattoush Salad with Parsley, Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Pita Croutons, and Za’tar Mint Dressing
• Lamb and Beef Kufta Kebabs with Allspice, Ginger, and Paprika with Tahini-Lemon Dressing