10 Ways to Use Sumac

Sumac by Beit Sitti: A Delicious and Nutritious Addition to Your Kitchen.

If you’re looking to add some bold and tangy flavor to your dishes, look no further than sumac by Beit Sitti. This traditional Middle Eastern spice is made from the dried and ground berries of the sumac bush and is a staple ingredient in many regional dishes.

Not only is sumac delicious, it is also incredibly healthy. The red berries are high in antioxidants, Vitamin C, and other essential nutrients. Sumac has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments, including digestive issues and skin irritation.

At Beit Sitti, we source the highest quality sumac berries to ensure that our customers receive a product that is both delicious and nutritious. Our sumac is carefully hand-selected and sun-dried to preserve its natural flavor and color.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, sumac by Beit Sitti is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Its bright, lemony flavor pairs well with meats, vegetables, salads, and even yogurt dips. Try adding a pinch of sumac to grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a homemade hummus for a burst of flavor. Buy it from our shop www.beitsitti.com/shop

In conclusion, sumac by Beit Sitti is a must-have ingredient for anyone looking to add some zing to their cooking. With its bold flavor and numerous health benefits, it’s no wonder that sumac has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. So why not give it a try in your own kitchen today?

sumac roasted carrots recipe

10. add to lemon water and make sumac lemonade.

Sumac is a versatile spice that can be used in a variety of dishes to add bold and tangy flavor. Beit Sitti’s sumac is carefully hand-selected and sun-dried to preserve its natural flavor and color.

Here are 10 ways to incorporate sumac into your recipes:

  1. Add sumac to labneh balls (thickened yogurt stored in olive oil) for a tangy kick.
  2. Sprinkle sumac on fried eggs for a delicious and nutritious breakfast.
  3. Caramelize onions with sumac to make musakhan, a traditional Palestinian dish.
  4. Use sumac to add flavor to kubbeh, a traditional Middle Eastern dish.
  5. Add sumac to spinach for the best Middle Eastern spinach pastries.
  6. Use sumac to make a flavorful salad dressing for fattoush salad. Simply rub onions with sumac and salt, then add lemon juice and Beit Sitti’s no sugar pomegranate molasses, and finally, extra virgin olive oil.
  7. Sprinkle sumac on avocado toast for a delicious and healthy snack.
  8. Make a delicious tomato salad with sumac for a tangy twist on a classic dish.
  9. Roast carrots with sumac for a delicious and nutritious side dish.
  10. Add sumac to lemon water to make a refreshing and flavorful sumac lemonade.

Incorporating sumac into your cooking is a simple way to add bold flavor and numerous health benefits to your meals. Try using sumac in these 10 delicious recipes and experience the taste of the Middle East in your own kitchen.

Buy Zaatar from our shop at Beit Sitti

Za’atar (also known as zatar) is a Middle Eastern spice blend made from a mixture of dried herbs, sesame seeds, and sumac. The main ingredient in za’atar is thyme, which is often mixed with other dried herbs like oregano, marjoram, and savory. The sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and texture, while the sumac adds a tangy and slightly sour taste.

One of the best places to find authentic za’atar is in Amman, Jordan, where it is made by local women by hand using traditional methods. In Beit Sitti, a women-run traditional Arabic restaurant and cooking school, za’atar is made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and is considered to be some of the best in the world. The climate in Jordan is ideal for growing high-quality herbs, which is why za’atar produced in the region is so sought after by foodies and chefs alike.

If you are not able to travel to Amman to get your za’atar, you can easily find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online. Just be sure to look for high-quality, fresh za’atar, as this will give you the best flavor and aroma. Whether you use it to season your food, or as a topping for pita bread or crackers, za’atar is a versatile and delicious spice that is sure to add a touch of Middle Eastern flavor to your cooking.

10 Best Ways to Use Zaatar

Zaatar, a popular Middle Eastern spice blend, is a staple in many households. Made from a mixture of dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and other spices, this blend is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways to add depth and flavor to your dishes. Here are some of the best ways to use zaatar:

  1. Dipping Bread: The traditional way of enjoying zaatar is by dipping bread in extra virgin olive oil and then in the zaatar blend. This creates a delicious and flavorful snack that is easy to prepare.
  2. Avocado Toast: Combine labneh, a sour yogurt-based dip similar to cream cheese, with avocado on top. Then, sprinkle sumac and zaatar over the top and drizzle with olive oil for a tasty breakfast or snack.
  3. Salads: Zaatar can be used to add flavor to any type of salad, whether it’s a green salad or a pasta salad. Simply sprinkle some zaatar on top of your salad before serving.
  4. Chicken Breast: To make a tangy, herby chicken breast recipe, season chicken breasts with lemon, mixed spice, onion, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Then, coat with zaatar and sear. Finally, bake in the oven for a delicious, healthy meal.
  5. Mix zaatar with olive oil and use it as a marinade for meats like chicken, lamb, or fish. Let the meat marinate for a couple of hours and then grill or bake for a delicious and flavorful meal.
  6. Sprinkle zaatar on top of hummus or spread it on your sandwich for added flavor.
  7. Use zaatar to season roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and eggplants for a delicious side dish.
  8. Add zaatar to your scrambled eggs or omelets for a unique and tasty twist.
  9. Mix zaatar with yogurt to make a delicious dip for vegetables, crackers, or pita chips.
  10. Use zaatar to top your flatbread or pizza for a middle eastern twist on a classic dish.

Are you a fan of the bold and vibrant flavors of the Middle East? Look no further than Beit Sitti, your one-stop shop for authentic and high-quality zaatar! Our zaatar is hand-made by local women in Amman, Jordan, using the freshest ingredients such as sesame and sumac.

There are endless ways to enjoy zaatar – whether you’re dipping your bread in extra virgin olive oil and then in zaatar, spreading it on top of labneh and avocado toast, adding it to your salads, or using it as a seasoning for a delicious and tangy herby chicken breast recipe.

At Beit Sitti, we are dedicated to providing you with the best possible products and experiences. That’s why we only use the freshest and highest-quality ingredients in all of our products, including our zaatar.

Order now from our online shop at www.beitsitti.com/shop and taste the difference for yourself! Our zaatar is the perfect addition to any meal, whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a gathering of friends and family. Don’t miss out on the chance to bring the flavors of the Middle East to your home with Beit Sitti’s zaatar!”

Freekeh Superfood: Health Benefits and its Connection to Middle Eastern Cuisine

Freekeh: A Nutritious and Delicious Whole Grain

Freekeh is a type of whole grain that is produced from young, green durum wheat. It is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine and is known for its unique flavor, texture, and health benefits. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the reasons why freekeh is so good for you, and we’ll also provide four delicious recipes that show you how to incorporate freekeh into your meals.

Health Benefits of Freekeh

  1. Rich in Fiber: Freekeh is a rich source of dietary fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full for longer and supports healthy digestion.
  2. Low in Calories: One cup of cooked freekeh contains only around 140 calories, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight.
  3. Packed with Nutrients: Freekeh is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
  4. Gluten-Free: For those who are sensitive to gluten, freekeh is a great alternative to other grains like wheat and barley, as it is naturally gluten-free.

In conclusion, freekeh is a versatile and nutritious grain that is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Try incorporating it into your meals with these four delicious recipes, and enjoy all of the health benefits that freekeh has to offer!

Freekeh is a type of cracked wheat that is high in fiber and protein, making it a nutritious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.

Here are four freakeh recipes that you can try in your meals:

Freekeh Soup Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup freekeh
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 chicken breast
  • 1 diced onion
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the freakeh and drain well.
  2. In a pot, heat some oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced carrot and celery to the pot and cook for a few minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth add chicken breast until cooked all the way through
  5. Bring the soup to a boil and then add the freakeh.
  6. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes or shred the chicken
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve the soup hot.

Freekeh Salad Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups freakeh
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 diced cucumber
  • 1 diced red onion
  • 1 diced red pepper
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the freakeh and cook according to the package instructions.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked freakeh with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, red pepper, feta cheese, and parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing over the freakeh salad and toss to combine.
  5. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Freakeh with Chicken Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups freakeh
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 diced onion
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 2 diced tomatoes
  • 1 diced red pepper
  • Freakeh with chicken for 5 portions

Instructions:

  1. Cut whole chicken in quarters and clean each quarter with flour salt, and lemon
  2. Toss cleaned chickens in a bowl and dress it up with black pepper, oil, dry za’atar, black pepper, beit sitti stock mix, mixed spice, add an onion quartered  
  3. salt and vinegar. Leave to marinate for about 10 minutes – spread oil on an oven tray and line the chicken halves in the tray cover the chickens with another full length foil paper and make sure they are all enclosed in the foil. Place some water under the foil paper to make sure the temperature around the chicken will be circulating and to maintain the moisture in the chicken
  4. Place the tray in an oven at 250c for around 45 minutes with the heat coming from below and then put it under the fire so the top to turn crisp golden for around 10 minutes
  5. Rinse the Freakeh several times, then place it in a bowl with water and then slowly pour it into another bowl. This will leave all the unwanted residue in the first bowl
  6. Leave the Freakeh in water to moisten for about 30 minutes
  7. saute a finely chopped onion in the pot with ghee, then add the freakeh, and spice it with 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon Turemericpowder and 1teaspoon salt to cook and 1 tspn beit sitti stock mix
  8. Place some water on top of it to moisten then stir slightly and close the lid of the pot
  9. From time to time stir the Freakeh until its moist but there is no water left
  10. Once the Freakeh is done place it in a dish

Freekeh Pudding:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup freakeh
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the freakeh and cook according to the package instructions.
  2. In a pot, heat the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, salt

Bringing a taste of Jordan to your kitchen: 9 easy and healthy vegan recipes

Jordanian cuisine is renowned for its delicious and healthy dishes, with a focus on fresh vegetables, herbs and spices. For those looking to incorporate more vegan and healthy options into their diets, Jordan offers a variety of tasty options that can easily be recreated in your own kitchen.

  1. Galayet Bandoora: This simple dish is made with just three main ingredients: tomato, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a staple in Jordanian households and can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Simply sauté the tomato and garlic in olive oil and serve with Arabic bread.
  2. Hummus: Chickpeas, tahini, lemon, olive oil, and garlic are all you need to make this classic dip. Serve with pita bread or vegetables for a healthy snack or appetizer.
  3. Falafel: Chickpeas, coriander, garlic, and falafel spice are blended together to make this crunchy and flavorful snack. Deep-fry or bake for a healthier alternative.
  4. Date Molasses: This sweet and sticky syrup can be mixed with tahini for a healthier alternative to Nutella. Spread on toast or use as a topping for pancakes or yogurt.
  5. Fasolya Bi Zeit: Green beans are sautéed with garlic and olive oil and topped with coriander for a delicious and healthy side dish.
  6. Bamyeh Bil Zeit: Okra is cooked with garlic and olive oil and topped with coriander in this tasty dish. Serve with Arabic bread.
  7. Manaeesh Zaatar: A type of flatbread, Manaeesh Zaatar is made with a dough of flour, salt, sugar, water, and yeast. Roll into rounds, press and top with zaatar and olive oil before baking in the oven.
  8. Zucchini with Coriander: Sauté garlic in olive oil, add sliced zucchini, and top with coriander for a simple and healthy side dish.
  9. Foul, tahin Garlic and Olive Oil: A simple and classic dish, mash garlic add lemon juice olive oil and boiled fava bean from a can paste and enjoy with bread, add green chili for an added kick

Try these delicious and healthy vegan dishes for a taste of Jordan in your own home. Impress your friends and family with your cooking skills and enjoy the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Discover the Best Vegan Middle Eastern Breakfast Spots in Amman

Easy Vegan Middle Eastern Recipes to make you feel like home.

Running a cooking school for 11 years has made me realize that Arabic food has got to be one of the easiest foods to translate to vegan.

This by no means qualifies me as a local guide but let’s consider it a recommendation from a local friend.

First, let’s begin with breakfast.

Jordanian breakfast consists of a whole range of vegan dishes Most notably Falafel Hummus and Foul; they are hearty, healthy, full of nutrients, and definitely one that gives you a bang for your buck for not more than 2 dollars you will be able to get your heart craving of falafel till your full a ¼ kilo of hummus and foul and not to mention free Arabic bread tea and pickles to go with it.

My favorite Falafel and Hummus street stalls in Amman are

Falafel Al Quds: this place in Rainbow street offers, what I like to call the ultimate Falafel Sandwich, with your option of sesame bread or plain the owner specializes only in making falafel sandwiches (forget the foul and hummus) after this sandwich you will be too full for them.

Al Kalha: the cleanest of the falafel vendors, this place is like the 5-star version of street food with their rebranding they are more a luxury falafel hummus and foul shop… lets’s call it the suave street stall.

Hashem: in downtown Amman is not my favorite in terms of taste, but it is in terms of atmosphere. The whole vibe is Ammani downtown and if you want to eat like a local head there for breakfast.

Abu Jbara: you will find this place on a lot of street corners, just google it and you will find the closest one to you! Best falafel humus and foul combo.

Abu Mahjoob: this is where we used to go when we skipped school. Well worth the B Cs and Ds

If you’r not in Jordan, try our homemade falafel recipe for a flavor to make you feel like your on the streets of Amman

Falafel 4-5 portion

Ingredients:

  • 2cups chickpeas (pre soaked overnight)
  • 4cloves garlic
  • 1bunch coriander 
  • 1 hot pepper 

(as many extra herbs as you want and you can also add an onion) 

  • 1tspn salt
  • 1tspn cumin powder
  • 1tspn black pepper
  • 1bunch coriander
  • 1/2 tspn allspice
  • 1 bunch parsley 
  • 1tspn sodium bicarbonate  

Instructions:

  1. Soak 250 grams of dried chickpeas in water overnight.
  2. in a food processor or meat grinder add  garlic, coriander and parsley
  3. once the texture is a paste – take the paste out and add cumin, black pepper and allspice 
  4. preheat oil in a pot to fry the falafel in
  5. grab a small amount of paste and roll it in the shape of a ball using your hands or put water on a spoon and using another spoon form an oval shaped ball and then dip it into the hot oil to fry
  6. once the falafel ball starts turning brown at the edges turn it around so that it cooks on the other side
  7. leave to fry for another 1 minutes and take out and place on a paper towel to get colder, you can eat it with hummus and pita bread. Enjoy,

 

Hummus and Foul are available almost everywhere in Jordan. If your not here and want to feel like you are try recreating this vegan dish at home.

for the perfect hummus all you need is 1 cup boiled chickpeas or canned, a lot of lemon to taste (i would go for 2 lemons) a tspn of salt and 1/ cup of tahini and a crushed garlic 

Same recipe applies for Foul. This recipe is one I learnt from a food stall owner who specialized in foul food for more than 36years in Lebanon and yes you guessed it his name is Tony and his appetite for foul supersedes his passion, lets just say he. knows it inside out. 

In the recipe I am going to give you what you need is a very basic can of fava beans, wash the beans and put In a pot to cook on a low heat, once its his trick is to mash your garlic using a pestle and mortar with salt then add lemon mix it nicely together and then add your fava beans 

Surprise Your Foodie Loved One with Beit Sittis Arabic Middle Eastern Spice Gift Box

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and what better way to show your love than by cooking for your special someone! If you’re looking for a unique and romantic experience, look no further than Beit Sitti’s Arabic Middle Eastern Cooking Class.

Located in the heart of Amman, Jordan, Beit Sitti is a beautiful traditional house that serves as a cooking school and restaurant. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to spend a romantic evening cooking and enjoying a delicious meal with your loved one.

In this Valentine’s Day special cooking class, you’ll learn how to prepare a variety of Arabic and Middle Eastern dishes, including mezze platters, grilled meats, and flavorful stews. With the help of Beit Sitti’s experienced chefs, you’ll master the art of blending spices and herbs to create bold and authentic flavors.

After cooking up a storm, you’ll sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor over a candlelit dinner. The intimate setting and delicious food will provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening filled with laughter, conversation, and unforgettable memories.

Not only is this cooking class a fun and unique experience, but it’s also an opportunity to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Arabic and Middle Eastern cuisine. With its use of exotic spices, flavorful herbs, and aromatic ingredients, this cuisine is a true reflection of the region’s history and traditions.

So, if you’re looking for a special and memorable way to spend Valentine’s Day in Amman, consider Beit Sitti’s Arabic Middle Eastern Cooking Class. Not only will you learn to cook delicious food, but you’ll also create unforgettable memories with your loved one that will last a lifetime. Book your spot now! Do you have a loved one who loves to cook or is interested in exploring new cuisines? If so, we have the perfect gift idea for you! Give the gift of flavor this birthday, anniversary, or Valentine’s Day with Beit Sitti’s exclusive line of Arabic and Middle Eastern spices.

Our spice collection includes:

  1. Sumac: A tart and tangy spice that adds a unique flavor to meat dishes and salads.
  2. Zaatar: A flavorful blend of herbs, sesame seeds, and spices used in traditional breakfast dishes and as a seasoning for meats and vegetables.
  3. Tahini: A creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds, used in hummus, sauces, and dressings.
  4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A staple ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking, used for everything from cooking and baking to drizzling over dishes for added flavor.
  5. Pomegranate Molasses: A sweet and sour syrup made from pomegranate juice, used in dressings, marinades, and as a glaze for meats.
  6. Date Molasses: A rich and sticky syrup made from dates, used in sweets, drinks, and as a natural sweetener.
  7. Ma Zaher (Orange Blossom Essence): A sweet and floral essence used in desserts, drinks, and baked goods.
  8. Falafel Spices: A blend of spices specifically designed for making the perfect falafel.
  9. Beit Sitti Stock Mix: A unique blend of spices and herbs that will enhance the flavor of any soup, stew, or sauce.
  10. Khshkhash: A bitter orange cordial mixed with Ma Zaher for a fresh and invigorating drink.
  11. Arabic Mixed Spice: A blend of spices that will give any dish that authentic Arabic flavor.

You can purchase our spices separately or in special gift boxes, complete with a beautiful apron to make your loved one feel special. We also offer gift vouchers for our popular cooking classes, so your loved one can learn how to use these spices and create delicious Middle Eastern dishes.

Don’t settle for ordinary gifts this year. Give the gift of flavor and a culinary experience that will be remembered for years to come. Visit Beit Sitti today and treat your loved one to a taste of the Middle East!

Celebrate Easter with Authentic Arabic Egg Recipes from Jordan

Easter is just around the corner, and with many of us stuck at home, what better way to celebrate than with delicious egg dishes from the Middle East. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty and warming meal or a quick and simple pick-me-up, these classic Arabic recipes will have you covered.

Awarma Bel Beid If you’re looking for a filling and nutritious breakfast, look no further than Awarma Bel Beid. This traditional Lebanese dish is made by cooking eggs with preserved meat, creating a warm and comforting meal that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. To make the best Awarma Bel Beid, use the finest quality meat and surround it with pieces of fat, which will help preserve the meat for longer.

Ingredients

  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon
  • Awarma Salt
  • freshly cracked pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat a clay pot and add 1 tablespoon of Awarma.
  2. Crack in two eggs, add salt and 1/2 tsp pepper and place in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Serve warm with pita bread.

Shakshouka Tomatoes are a staple in Jordan, especially in the Ghor region, and Shakshuka is a delicious way to enjoy them. This simple and flavorful dish is made by sautéing garlic and a whole hot pepper, adding chopped tomatoes, salt, sugar, and freshly cracked black pepper, and finally cracking in two eggs.

Ingredients

  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 tomato
  • 1 hot pepper Salt
  • pepper
  • sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Sauté chopped garlic on low heat and add the whole hot pepper.
  2. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until it starts to thicken.
  3. Add salt, sugar, and freshly cracked black pepper, then crack in two eggs.
  4. Place in the oven for 2 minutes, serve with pita bread.

Potatoes and Eggs (Mfaraket Batata) Potatoes and eggs are a classic combination in Arabic cuisine and make for a comforting and satisfying meal. This dish, known as Mfaraket Batata, is easy to make and is a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 small potato
  • Butter
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt
  • freshly cracked pepper

Instructions

  1. Chop the potato finely and saute in butter until golden brown, then add salt and freshly cracked pepper.
  2. Crack in two eggs and whisk until soft and runny, and the potatoes are golden brown.
  3. Serve with freshly cracked pepper and a 1/2 tsp of salt.

These are just a few of the many egg dishes you can make with the ingredients you have at home. From mashing boiled eggs with labneh, zaatar, and hot chili, to frying eggs in ghee for a classic Arabic breakfast, the possibilities are endless.

Enjoy these authentic and delicious egg recipes from Jordan and have a happy Easter!

Best, Maria Haddad

The difference between Moutabbal and Baba Ghanouj!!!

The age-old question of Mutabbal and Baba Ghanouj has confused arabs, expats and tourists alike, we as an arab society can not seem to find a middle ground in picking a name for a dish and sticking to it!

Here’s my explanation! hope it helps. Moutabbal also pronounced mtabal is the dish always sitting next to your hummus on your table of mezza dishes, and baba Ghanouj is the one closer to a salad.

Moutabbal made of smoked aubergine, tahini, lemon, garlic and yoghurt is a dip usually served with bread.

Mutabal and Baba Ghanouj are two popular dishes in Jordan that are typically served as dips or spreads. Both dishes are made from eggplant, but they differ in preparation and ingredients.

Mutabal is a dip that is made by chopping grilled eggplant with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. The result is a creamy, smooth dip that has a tangy, nutty flavor. To serve, it is typically drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with sumac or parsley.

Baba Ghanouj, on the other hand, is a similar dip that is made by chopping grilled eggplant with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. However, it also contains additional ingredients such as pomegranate molasses and cumin, which give it a sweeter, smoky flavor. Like Mutabal, it is typically drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with paprika or parsley before serving.

Both Mutabal and Baba Ghanouj are typically served with warm pita bread or crackers as an appetizer. They can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or as a side dish with grilled meats.

Here are the recipes for Mutabal and Baba Ghanouj:

Mutabal

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Olive oil
  • Paprika or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Roast your eggplant directly on an open flame until skin is charred and eggplant is soft.
  2. If you don’t have an open flame, Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft and the skin is charred.
  3. Let the eggplants cool for a few minutes, then remove the skin and discard it.
  4. On a cutting board chop the eggplant.
  5. in a separate bowl add  tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt until smooth.
  6. Spoon the dip into a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
  7. Sprinkle with sumac or parsley and serve with warm pita bread or crackers.

Baba Ghanouj

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants
  • 1 onion
  • 1 garlic clove minces
  • ½ hot chilli pepper
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tomato
  • ¼ cup parsley chopped finely
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tsp sumac
  • 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
  • Olive oil
  • Mint

Instructions:

  1. Roast your eggplant directly on an open flame until skin is charred and eggplant is soft.
  2. If you don’t have an open flame, Place the eggplants on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft and the skin is charred.
  3. Let the eggplants cool for a few minutes, then remove the skin and discard it.
  4. On a chopping board blend the eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, pomegranate molasses, and salt until smooth.
  5. In a small bowl add finely dices onion, with sumac and rub to remove bittnerness from onion, add salt and lemon juice then add on top of the eggplant mix with diced tomato, diced red and yellow bellpepper, 1 chilli pepper, garlic and parsley and mix well
  6. Spoon the dip into a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil and top with fresh pomegranates.
  7. serve with warm pita bread or crackers.

In conclusion, Mutabal and Baba Ghanouj are both delicious and versatile dishes that are popular in Jordan and the surrounding region. Whether you prefer the tangy, nutty flavor of Mutabal or the sweet fresh baba ghanouj flavor, your in for a treat.

About Spices

Mixed Spices

Turn your ground beef into a kafta in an instant, This spice makes any dish you make Arabic

How to use

Sauté with ground veal or lamb on olive oil then add washed rice and cook to make hashweh. Add on whole chicken and roast in the oven for a proper Arabic Flavored Roast chicken. Add to chopped onions cooking in a pot with beef for the perfect lahmeh mafrome. add to rice mixed with meat and stuff into zucchini, potatoes or vine leaves. The possibilities are endless

Ingredients

black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, turmeric, saffron, cloves, mastic, nutmeg, allspice

Beit Sitti Stock Mix

Save yourself the exposure to bouillon cubes and their preservatives. This is a combo that we developed ourselves, Use it on any dish you make for an added kick! Let’s call it what is it our homemade stock mix

Ingredients

Parsley, Coriander, Saffron, Garlic, onion, salt, fennel, Turmeric, Mint, flour

Zaatar

When Sumac, Sesame and Dried Thyme get together… the result is a wild Thyme (Get it?) But also something we call Za’atar. How do you know you have good quality Zaatar firstly the zaatar needs to smell great the aromatics comes from the zaatar leaves, it could be a bit too strong which is why we add ground chickpeas

How to use:

Dip your bread in olive oil and Za’atar in the morning for a light, uplifting breakfast. while your grilling your chicken add your zaatar with a bit of olive oil on top and give it another 2-3 minutes for the perfect zaatar coated chicken, add to avocado on toast or labneh sandwiches, and mix with your salad dressings for an added kick

Ingredients

Rainfed Zaatar and Sumac, Salt, olive oil, Sesame, Chickpeas, Wheat

Sumac

how do you know you have good quality Sumac. 1. the color needs to be bright red (not purple) . Sumac is a berry that comes from the sumac tree. If your sumac is dark it means there are seeds inside which is a waste of weight and flavour 2. Put your sumac in a glass of water, if the water turns red it means there is food coloring in your sumac with a mix of salt and citric acid (that’s no good either) 3. taste this sumac and compare it with others… you know you have the real deal with ours. enjoy

How to Use

Use in salad dressing, rub your finely chopped onions in sumac to remove the bitterness before adding it to salads. Rub on chicken before cooking or sprinkle on avocado toast sandwiches, pairs perfectly on tomatoes with garlic sauce. Add on spinach to make fatayer and as a topping for all your mezzas, humus, moutabal and labneh.

Ingredients

Pure Sumac

How do you know you have good quality Sumac.

  1. The color needs to be bright red (not purple). Sumac is a berry that comes from the sumac tree. If your sumac is dark it means there are seeds inside which is a waste of weight and flavor
  2. Put your sumac in a glass of water, if the water turns red it means there is food coloring in your sumac with a mix of salt and citric acid.
  3. Taste this sumac and compare it with others… you know you have the real deal with ours. enjoy

Olive oil

How do you know you have good quality olive oil, the smell and taste, our Beit Sitti olive oil has been cold pressed from hand picked olives that come from trees that are rain fed in the north of Jordan from our grandmother’s farm Wadi Veras farm around the olive trees we have pine nuts and walnuts and peppers giving the olive oil a flavour that is earthy, nutty and with a hint of heat from the pepper

How to use it

use it fresh on salads, and as a topping on mezzas, to saute ingredients on a low heat. Make sure you don’t use olive oil with excessive heat as it becomes rancid when it goes over 80C

Ingredients

Cold pressed olives

How do you know you have good quality olive oil

The smell and taste, our Beit Sitti olive oil has been cold pressed from hand picked olives that come from trees that are rain fed in the north of Jordan from our grandmothes farm Wadi Veras farm around the olive trees we have pine nuts and walnuts and peppers giving the olive oil a flavour that is earthy, nutty and with a hint of heat from the pepper

Tahini

How to use it

It works well everywhere! Mix with lemon juice, salt, garlic and yoghurt, add roasted eggplants and you get Moutabal. Switch the eggplants with shredded boiled beetroots and you get Moutabal Shamandar. Switch the beetroots with boiled chickpeas and you get our world famous Hummus…

Ingredients

Sesame Seed Paste, oil

 

How do you know you have good Tahini

Firstly look at the top of your jar. If the oil is less than a finger width thick it means your tahini is not just oil and a bit of sesame. Our sesame is roasted before pressing which means it is darker and more pronounced and finally if it makes your mouth dry when you taste it this is a sign of good quality. Enjoy

Pomegranate Molasses

we understand you’re skeptical. Because when something without sugar tastes this good, you know something is up. This molasses is made from hand picked pomegranates, juiced and reduced on a low heat for hours.

How to Use

on salad dressings and on stews for a special tangy kick

Ingredients

Pomegranate

How do you know you have good pomegranate molasses

Our molasses does not have any additional sugar or preservatives. It is picked at the end of the season which means its ripened the longest on the vine, if you twirl it around you will see that there are no crystals forming on the side which means that it is mostly sweet from the pomegranates themselves.

Date Molasses

How to use it

Use it in cookies and cakes. The best suggestion, pair it with tahini for a great vegan dessert enjoy it with a spoon or a piece of arabic bread. for a dairy free, sugar free, gluten free dessert that is creamy and very satisfying

Ingredients

Medjool dates

How do you know you have good Date Molasses

our molasses is made using the best quality medjool dates. Do not be fooled with the sweet taste of this jar. We understand this might be hard to believe but we do not use sugar. This is a sugar alternative that helps boost your calcium, B12 and iron intake

Ma Zaher

What makes this orange blossom so special is that we distill it ourselves, the trick is to make sure your orange blossom petals are in perfect condition before distilling them. you have a two day window to do this at the perfect time. plus these petals come from organic orange blossom trees. with its heavenly smell you can’t help but wonder… is this edible. It is indeed. It’s a great digestive when mixed with hot water and is very prominent in arabic desserts.

  • Reduces cortisol levels.
  • Lowers blood pressure.
  • Improves menopausal symptoms.
  • Reduces inflammation.
  • Acts as an antimicrobial substance.
  • Exerts antispasmodic effects.
  • Acts as an anticonvulsant. not to mention it’s excellent as a skin tonic 🙂

How to use

mix one tspn of orange blossom with hot water for a cafe blanc. add it to milk puddings or simple syrups for a medeteranian twist on your desserts

Ingredients

water and orange blossom

Additional spices for the future

Falafel Spice

The perfect amount of spice to your falafel

How to use

In a food processor mix chickpeas (soaked in water overnight) coriander and garlic and some if this falafel mix and enjoy, you can make different falafel versions using fava beans or peas, any pulses work.

Ingredients

allspice, cumin, coriander black pepper

Maaloubeh Spice

Maaloubeh can be made using different vegetables and either meat chicken or fish, this spice blend goes on all kinds for the perfect Maaloubeh every time

How to use

fry your vegetables, boil your meat/chicken andlayer with rice mixed with maaloubeh spice and salt 🙂

Ingredients

Beit sitti stock mix, cinamon, black pepper, mixed spice, turmeric

Khushkhash

This cordial comes from organic sour oranges at Issa Halabis Organic farm. We juice them then mix it with sugar to preserve it. Teta Veras Specialty!!! made by naturally preserving organic sour orange juice.

How to use

This preserve is a refreshing juice mix that can be made in seconds, add a capful into a glass and fill with cold water a little bit of lemon juice and orange blossom and taste away!
For an added kick add a teaspoon of orange blossom and a bit of lemon juice.

Ingredients

Sugar, bitter orange juice

Discover the Foodie Paradise of Amman – A Guide to Fun Places for Food Lovers

A Guide to Fun Places for Food Lovers: Visit the vegetable market downtown for fresh produce, try the freshly cooked fish at Sara’s, dine at Dar Nemeh at the Citadel, have a picnic at the Roman Amphitheatre with sandwiches from Falafel Al Quds, take a cooking class at Beit Sitti, have Shawerma Reem for lunch and Tamriyet Omar for dessert, go wine tasting at JR, enjoy a meal at Najla’s Kitchen or try the adventurous cuisine at K&K, have breakfast at Shams Al Balad, dine with a purpose at 3izwati, try the Kafta Bil Sanieh at Auberge, have Abu Saleh’s sweet “hilweh” coffee, enjoy Lebanese mezze at Fakhr el Din or Karam Beirut, visit Rumi Café or Al Manara for a hippy vibe, go on a walking tour with Dania or rent bikes from Cycle Jordan, visit the Royal Automobile Museum, Children’s Museum, Rainbow Street and Fast Walkers Amman, walk the amphitheatre steps, shop for pottery and gifts by the airport road, fly kites at the Citadel, hike in a wadi with a guide, shop at the Friday market and have a fun day at Carakale Brewery.