Ep 4. Everyday Middle Eastern Cooking

In Christopher Kimball's Milk Street season 4 episode 4, viewers are taken on a culinary journey to the Middle East. The episode, titled "Everyday Middle Eastern Cooking," explores the diverse and flavorful cuisine of the region through several dishes that are easy to make at home.

Host Christopher Kimball and his team of expert chefs begin by making a creamy eggplant dip called baba ghanoush. They roast the eggplant until it is charred and tender, then mix it with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt to create a smooth and delicious dip that is perfect for serving with pita bread or vegetables.

Next up is a classic Middle Eastern dish called shakshuka, which is a flavorful tomato sauce made with onions, peppers, and spices that is simmered with eggs until they are just set. Kimball and his team demonstrate how to make this dish quickly and easily using canned tomatoes and a few pantry staples.

For a heartier meal, the show features a spiced lamb stew called kibbeh that is traditionally served during Ramadan. The stew is made with ground lamb, bulgur wheat, and a blend of flavorful spices like cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Kimball and his team show viewers how to shape the kibbeh into balls and cook them in the stew until tender and juicy.

Another delicious Middle Eastern staple is falafel, which are fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Kimball and his team take a unique twist on traditional falafel by adding beets to the mix, which not only add a beautiful color but also a sweet, earthy flavor.

Finally, the show concludes with a refreshing and healthy dessert called labneh, which is a thick and tangy yogurt that is strained until it reaches a creamy consistency. Kimball and his team serve the labneh with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of nuts and dried fruit for a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Throughout the episode, Kimball and his team provide tips and tricks for working with Middle Eastern ingredients and cooking techniques that viewers can easily incorporate into their own kitchens. From creamy dips to hearty stews and healthy desserts, "Everyday Middle Eastern Cooking" offers a glimpse into the diverse and delicious cuisine of the Middle East.