Episode 6: A Deep Dive into Lebanese Street Food & Culinary Traditions
Lebanese cuisine isn’t just about food—it’s a story of history, culture, and community.
In this episode of Food Unscripted, Anthony and Hani take us on an immersive journey into the soul of Lebanese cuisine, blending nostalgia, culinary debates, and mouthwatering flavors. From the iconic street food stalls to the rich traditions of home-cooked meals, this episode is a love letter to the flavors of the Levant.
What’s on the Menu?
Lebanese Cuisine: A Culinary Tapestry
- Anthony and Hani reflect on their exploration of Latin cuisine in the previous episode and shift their focus to Lebanese food—its uniqueness, cultural significance, and deep-rooted traditions.
- They unpack the essence of Lebanese dining, from festive family meals to the everyday dishes that shape local food culture.
A Love for Flavor: Favorite Dishes, Daily Meals & Forgotten Ingredients
- The duo shares their favorite Lebanese dishes, including:
- Shish Barak—tiny meat-filled dumplings simmered in a tangy yogurt sauce with coriander and garlic.
○ Kibbe—a versatile mix of bulgur and meat, served fried, baked, or in yogurt sauce with rice.
○ Bazella (peas), okra, and stews — childhood "ugh" foods that became adulthood favorites.
○ Freekeh—a nutrient-rich roasted green wheat that predates rice in the Levant but has been overshadowed since the 1920s and 1930s.
- They discuss the importance of fresh ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and why festive foods are saved for special gatherings.
- The conversation expands into the art of cooking rice, breaking down:
- Egyptian vs. Basmati rice—how each fits into Lebanese cuisine.
○ Undercooked vs. perfectly tender rice—which is best?
○ How spices and meat juices transform simple rice into a flavorful masterpiece.
Street Food: The True Heart of Lebanon
- Lebanese street food is more than just a quick bite—it’s a cultural phenomenon.
- The duo takes us through the bustling world of shawarma stands, manousheh bakeries, and late-night snack spots.
- They argue that Lebanese street food has shaped global culinary trends, despite being underrepresented on the world stage.
The Shawarma Wars: Lebanon vs. the World
- Shawarma is universal, but not all shawarmas are created equal.
- The hosts explore how Lebanese, Iraqi, and regional variations differ, tune in to know more top secrets!
Food, Culture & Community: A Bigger Conversation
Lebanese food isn’t just about taste—it’s about rituals, family gatherings, and the joy of communal dining. They contrast Lebanese food culture with Western dining habits, highlighting the emphasis on shared plates, long meals, and hospitality.Anthony and Hani bring their signature humor and passion, proving that food is best enjoyed with great company. They tackle far more foods, but this is on you to watch and know more in the episode.
Don’t Miss This Episode!
This isn’t just a food show—it’s an adventure into the heart of Lebanese cuisine. Hit play and join Anthony and Hani as they laugh, debate, and celebrate the flavors that make Lebanon one of the world’s greatest food destinations.
From street food to home-cooked meals, this episode is a feast for the senses. Don’t watch on an empty stomach!
