In honor of “Veganuary,” typically marked around the world in January, we rounded up vegan-friendly Middle Eastern dishes to incorporate into your next meal.
Vegetable couscous
This traditional North African dish is often served with a vegetable stew. Look for whole wheat couscous to optimize its fiber and nutritional content.
Tabbouleh
A vitamin-rich Middle Eastern salad that consists of finely-chopped tomatoes, parsley, mint, bulgur and onion, seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice and salt.
Falafel
Falafel is a deep-fried ball of chickpeas that is often served with pita bread and salad. Choose baked versions to reduce the high fat content associated with frying.
Vine leaves
A popular Middle Eastern dish made with fresh vine leaves used as a wrapper for brown rice. Low in calories, these are nutrient-rich, boasting potent doses of vitamins A and C as well as iron and fiber.
Mulukhiyah
Not only is this Middle Eastern dish delicious, but it is also loaded with nutrients. Served over rice, the stew, which is made out of jute mallow leaves, is rich in iron, vitamin C and calcium.
Koshari
Often referred to as “Egypt’s national dish,” koshari is a vegan-friendly, carb-loaded treat made with chickpeas, lentils, rice and pasta. It is often topped with a spicy tomato sauce.
