Only One Recipe

Author: John Dough

  • Traditional Trinidadian Callaloo Recipe

    Traditional Trinidadian Callaloo Recipe

    Get ready to dive into the heart of Trinidad and Tobago’s cuisine with this traditional Callaloo recipe. Callaloo is not just a beloved dish; it’s a cultural staple, often served as a sumptuous side or a main dish. This creamy, spinach-like soup brims with the flavors of dasheen leaves, okra, and coconut milk, simmered to perfection with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.

    Ingredients:

    • 10 dasheen leaves, chopped (or substitute with spinach or Swiss chard if unavailable)
    • 12 okras, sliced
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup coconut milk
    • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
    • 1/2 cup chopped pumpkin
    • 2 sprigs thyme
    • 2 scallions, chopped
    • 1 whole scotch bonnet pepper
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or shado beni (culantro), for garnishing

    Instructions:

    1. In a large pot over medium heat, add vegetable oil and sauté garlic, onion, and scallions until translucent.
    2. Add chopped dasheen leaves (or substitute), okras, and pumpkin to the pot and stir.
    3. Pour in coconut milk and broth, then add the thyme and whole scotch bonnet pepper. Do not burst the pepper unless you desire a spicier dish.
    4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and flavors are well combined.
    5. Remove the thyme and scotch bonnet pepper. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth or leave as is for a more rustic texture.
    6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
    7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or shado beni, and serve hot as a side dish or with rice for a hearty meal.

    Enjoy the warmth and vibrancy of Trinidadian cuisine right in your own kitchen with this Callaloo recipe. The blend of dasheen leaves and Caribbean spices creates a comfort food experience that’s both exotic and familiar.

  • Classic Creamy Risotto

    Classic Creamy Risotto

    There’s something about a creamy, comforting bowl of risotto that feels like a warm hug to your palate. This traditional Northern Italian rice dish has a reputation for being fussy, but with patience and a little technique, you can create a sumptuous, restaurant-quality risotto in your own kitchen. Today, we’ll be walking through the steps to achieve a perfect creamy risotto that can be both a sophisticated entrée or a heartwarming side dish.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 cup Arborio rice
    • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, warmed
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/2 cup dry white wine
    • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
    • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh herbs, for garnish

    Instructions:

    1. Start by heating the stock in a saucepan over low heat. Warm stock ensures the cooking process is uniform and helps the rice absorb the liquid better.
    2. In a separate, large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and aromatic.
    3. Stir in the Arborio rice, toasting it lightly for about 1-2 minutes until it’s well-coated with the oil. This step is crucial as it initiates the release of starch from the rice, which leads to the desired creaminess.
    4. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer until the liquid is almost fully absorbed. The wine adds acidity to balance the richness of the dish.
    5. Begin to add the warm stock, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until each addition of stock is almost completely absorbed before adding the next. This process, which usually takes about 18-20 minutes, shouldn’t be rushed as it helps create the right texture.
    6. Once the rice is ‘al dente’, tender with a slight bite to it, remove the pan from the heat. Add butter and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring well to combine into the rice and create a velvety finish.
    7. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Remember that the Parmesan will add some saltiness, so be mindful of how much additional salt you use.
    8. Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with fresh herbs of your choice for a pop of color and added flavor.

    Tips and Variations:

    • Constant stirring is key in making risotto to encourage the creaminess from the starch.
    • Feel free to add cooked mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or cooked seafood to the risotto to make it more robust.
    • If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock and consider adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an umami boost.
    • Leftover risotto can be used to make arancini, delicious fried risotto balls.

    Preparing a perfect risotto may seem daunting, but once you get the hang of the technique, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the creamy, comforting results!

  • Ultimate Loaded Nachos

    Ultimate Loaded Nachos

    Looking for a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering or a fun family night? Look no further than this delicious recipe for ultimate loaded nachos. Packed with flavors and customizable toppings, these nachos will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive in and create the perfect nacho platter in just 5 minutes of prep time!

    Ingredients:

    • 1 bag of tortilla chips
    • 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken
    • 1 packet taco seasoning
    • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
    • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
    • 1 large tomato, diced
    • 1 small red onion, diced
    • 1 jalapeño, sliced
    • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
    • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
    • 1 avocado, diced
    • 1 cup sour cream
    • 1 cup guacamole
    • 1 cup salsa
    • Lime wedges for garnish

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer on a large baking sheet or ovenproof platter.
    2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef or shredded chicken with the taco seasoning according to the package instructions. Once cooked, evenly distribute the meat over the tortilla chips.
    3. Sprinkle the black beans over the meat and chips, followed by a layer of both types of shredded cheese, ensuring an even covering.
    4. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    5. While the nachos are baking, prepare the fresh toppings – tomato, red onion, jalapeño, and black olives.
    6. Once the nachos are out of the oven, immediately add the fresh toppings, along with the diced avocado and a generous sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
    7. Place dollops of sour cream and guacamole around the nachos, and drizzle with salsa to your liking.
    8. Garnish with lime wedges and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and delicious.

    Remember, the beauty of nachos is their versatility. Feel free to substitute or add any toppings you like such as corn, bell peppers, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Enjoy creating your own ultimate nacho experience.

  • Crispy Chicken Katsu: A Classic Japanese Comfort Food

    Crispy Chicken Katsu: A Classic Japanese Comfort Food

    If you’re a fan of crispy, crunchy, and savory dishes, Chicken Katsu is the perfect meal for you to try. This classic Japanese dish is a favorite for its simple preparation and delicious taste. Follow this guide to prepare a mouth-watering Chicken Katsu in just a few easy steps.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
    • 2 large eggs, beaten
    • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
    • Vegetable oil for frying
    • 1/2 cup tonkatsu sauce
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
    • Sliced cabbage or lettuce for garnish

    Instructions:

    1. Begin by preparing the chicken. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and slice them in half horizontally to make them thinner, which will help them cook more evenly. Season each piece with salt and pepper on both sides.
    2. Prepare three shallow bowls for the breading process. Place flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second, and the panko breadcrumbs in the third. Adding a pinch of salt to each bowl can enhance the flavor of the breading.
    3. Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be about 1/2 inch deep – enough to cover half of the chicken thickness.
    4. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shake off the excess, then dip into the egg, and finally coat with the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a good coating.
    5. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the pan. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    6. Remove the chicken from the oil and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
    7. Slice the Chicken Katsu into strips and serve on a plate with a side of shredded cabbage or lettuce. Drizzle with tonkatsu sauce and sprinkle sesame seeds over the top as an optional garnish.

    There you have it, a delicious homemade Chicken Katsu that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Serve it with steamed rice and miso soup to complete the meal! Enjoy your crispy and savory Japanese delight!

  • Authentic Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe

    Authentic Thai Tom Yum Soup Recipe

    Experience the essence of Thai cuisine with this traditional Tom Yum Soup recipe. It’s a hot and sour soup known for its distinctive use of fragrant herbs and spices. Follow this guide to recreate a Thai street food favorite in the comfort of your own kitchen in about 30 minutes.

    Ingredients:

    • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
    • 1 stalk lemongrass, cut into 2-inch pieces and pounded
    • 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces (discard the stem)
    • 3 slices galangal
    • 2 Thai chilies, smashed (adjust to taste)
    • 200g mushrooms, halved or quartered
    • 12 medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
    • 1 medium tomato, cut into wedges
    • 1 small onion, quartered
    • 2 tbsp fish sauce
    • 1 1/2 tbsp fresh lime juice
    • 1 tsp sugar
    • Handful of fresh cilantro leaves
    • Optional: 1/2 can coconut milk for a creamier soup

    Instructions:

    1. In a pot, bring the stock to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and Thai chilies. Boil for 5 minutes to let the herbs infuse their flavor into the broth.
    2. Add the mushrooms, onion, and tomato to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 2 minutes.
    3. Add the shrimp and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
    4. Stir in the fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you’re using coconut milk, add it now and warm through.
    5. Turn off the heat. Remove the lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves if desired.
    6. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

    Tom Yum Soup is incredibly versatile, so feel free to add other ingredients like Thai eggplant, tofu, or other seafood to suit your taste. This dish is best served immediately and can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of steamed jasmine rice. The perfect balance of sour, spicy, and savory flavors is sure to tantalize your taste buds!

    Expert Tips:

    • For an authentic experience, use fresh herbs and spices. Dried substitutes will work but won’t give you the same vibrancy of flavor.
    • Galangal cannot be substituted with ginger as its flavor profile is quite different. Look for it at Asian markets or specialty stores.
    • Adjust the level of heat by adding or removing Thai chilies – remember, they can be quite potent!

    Enjoy your homemade Thai Tom Yum Soup!

  • Homemade Pita Bread with Creamy Hummus

    Homemade Pita Bread with Creamy Hummus

    There’s nothing quite like the combination of warm, fluffy pita bread dipped into creamy, rich hummus. This guide will take you through the process of creating these delicious Middle Eastern staples at home. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger feast, this pairing is sure to impress.

    Ingredients

    For the Pita:

    • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
    • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
    • 1/4 cup warm water
    • 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 3/4 cup lukewarm water

    For the Hummus:

    • 1 can (15oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
    • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
    • Salt to taste
    • 2 to 3 tablespoons water
    • Paprika, for garnish (optional)
    • Olive oil, for garnish (optional)

    Instructions

    Pita Bread:

    1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in 1/4 cup warm water. Let it sit until frothy, about 5 minutes.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, olive oil, salt, yeast mixture, and lukewarm water. Stir until a dough begins to form.
    3. Place dough on a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until smooth and elastic.
    4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
    5. Preheat oven to 475°F (240°C) and place a baking stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat up.
    6. Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
    7. Let the circles rest for about 20 minutes, while they slightly rise again.
    8. Place the pitas onto the hot baking stone or sheet and bake for 3-4 minutes until they puff up and are lightly golden.
    9. Wrap the baked pitas in a clean towel to keep them soft.

    Hummus:

    1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, and salt. Process until smooth.
    2. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and continue processing until you reach the desired consistency.
    3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
    4. Serve the hummus in a bowl, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with paprika if desired.

    Serving Suggestions

    Enjoy your homemade pita with the hummus immediately for the best experience. You can also pair the pita bread with other dips, or use it to make pita pockets with your choice of fillings for a delicious and satisfying meal.

    Storage Tips

    Pita bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, or it can be frozen for longer storage. Hummus can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to a week.

  • Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bake

    Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bake

    Are you craving the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan but looking for a healthier, low-carb option? Look no further than this delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bake! With zucchini noodles standing in for traditional pasta, you’ll get all the comfort without the carbs. Let’s get cooking!

    Ingredients:

    • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles (zoodles)
    • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
    • 1 cup marinara sauce, plus more for serving
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
    • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil and set aside.
    2. In a mixing bowl, toss the spiralized zucchini with a pinch of salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, gently squeeze the zoodles to remove the moisture and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
    3. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
    4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 3 minutes per side or until golden. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will continue to cook in the oven.
    5. Place the browned chicken breasts over the zoodles in the baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well covered. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the sauce.
    6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is thoroughly cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
    7. Optional step: For a golden, crispy top, broil the bake for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
    8. Remove from oven, let it cool slightly and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
    9. Serve your Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bake with extra marinara sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy your guilt-free twist on a classic!

    This Chicken Parmesan Zoodle Bake is not only satisfying and full of flavor but also a dish you can feel good about indulging in. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Bon appétit!

  • Classic Moist Banana Bread

    Introduction

    Banana bread is a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. This classic recipe will guide you through the process of making a moist, delicious loaf that’s full of banana flavor.

    Ingredients

    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 cup butter at room temperature
    • 2 large eggs
    • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
    • 1 tablespoon milk
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon salt

    Instructions

    1. Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
    2. In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
    3. In a small bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the milk and cinnamon. Add this mixture into the creamed butter and sugar.
    4. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add to the creamed mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
    5. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
    6. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

    Tips and Variations

    • Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
    • For a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
    • Include chocolate chips or a swirl of peanut butter for a sweet surprise.
    • Top the banana bread with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.

    This banana bread is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it moist and delicious.

    Conclusion

    With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a loaf of mouthwatering banana bread that your whole family will enjoy. Don’t forget to make extra because it’s sure to disappear quickly!

  • Discover the Traditional Cuisine of Zambia: Nshima and Ndiwo

    Discover the Traditional Cuisine of Zambia: Nshima and Ndiwo

    Are you looking to try a new and exciting dish that offers a taste of Zambia’s rich culinary heritage? Look no further than the traditional duo of Nshima and Ndiwo – two staple dishes that form the backbone of Zambian diet. The pair provides a balance of textures and flavors that you’re sure to enjoy. As you embark on this culinary journey, prepare yourself for a truly enjoyable cooking and dining experience.

    What is Nshima?

    Nshima is a type of maize meal porridge, very similar to polenta or grits, that is the main carbohydrate source in the Zambian diet. It’s typically enjoyed with hands and served alongside a savory relish or stew known as Ndiwo.

    Nshima Recipe:

    Ingredients:

    • 4 cups water
    • 2 cups white maize meal (also known as cornmeal)

    Instructions:

    1. Start by bringing 3 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
    2. Gradually add 1 cup of maize meal to the boiling water while stirring steadily. This helps to prevent lumps from forming.
    3. Reduce the heat and cover the pot, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
    4. Slowly add the remaining 1 cup of maize meal, continuously stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pot.
    5. Keep stirring until the Nshima becomes quite stiff and manageable. If needed, cook it a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency.
    6. Mold it into individual servings with a wet spoon or your hands, dipped in cold water to prevent sticking.

    What is Ndiwo?

    Ndiwo is the term for a variety of relishes or stews made with vegetables and sometimes meat or fish. It is the perfect accompaniment to Nshima, adding flavor, moisture, and nutrients to the meal.

    Basic Vegetable Ndiwo Recipe:

    Ingredients:

    • 2 tablespoons cooking oil
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 2 tomatoes, chopped
    • 2 cups of any preferred leafy greens (such as spinach, kale, or collard greens), cleaned and chopped
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Heat the cooking oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
    2. Add the chopped onion and fry until soft and translucent.
    3. Introduce the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until the tomatoes break down and become saucy.
    4. Stir in the leafy greens and season with salt and pepper. Cover and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the greens are fully cooked but still vibrant in color.
    5. Adjust seasoning to your taste and remove from heat.

    Serving Suggestion:

    Serve a portion of Nshima with a generous helping of the Ndiwo on the side. Traditionally, Zambians would form a small ball of Nshima with their hands, make a small indentation in it, and use it to scoop up the Ndiwo.

    This simple yet nourishing meal is a delightful insight into the Zambian way of life. As you enjoy your own homemade Nshima and Ndiwo, take a moment to reflect on the significance of these dishes in bringing communities together, one meal at a time.

    Ready to explore more traditional Zambian recipes? Stay with us for more culinary adventures!

  • Homemade Chicken Shawarma – A Middle Eastern Delight

    Homemade Chicken Shawarma – A Middle Eastern Delight

    If you’re a fan of succulent chicken and vibrant spices, you’ll love this homemade Chicken Shawarma recipe. Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make at home without needing a vertical rotisserie. Perfect for a quick dinner or a festive gathering, this shawarma will be the star of your dining table. Here’s how to create this Middle Eastern classic in less than an hour.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 tbsp ground cumin
    • 1 tbsp ground coriander
    • 1 tbsp ground paprika
    • 1/2 tsp turmeric
    • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    • 1 lemon, juiced
    • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Yogurt sauce for serving
    • Pita bread for serving
    • Fresh vegetables (like tomato, cucumber, and red onion) for serving

    Instructions:

    1. Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
    2. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and make sure they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or for best results, overnight.
    3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
    4. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the baking sheet in a single layer.
    5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown exterior.
    6. While the chicken is cooking, prepare your yogurt sauce and chop the fresh vegetables.
    7. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for around 5 minutes. Then thinly slice it into strips.
    8. Warm the pita bread in the oven or on a skillet.
    9. Assemble your shawarma: Spread some yogurt sauce on the pita, add a generous helping of the chicken strips, and top with your choice of fresh vegetables.
    10. Roll up the pita like a wrap and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Shawarma!

    Additional Tips:

    • If you have a grill, you can cook the chicken on it for more authentic char-grilled flavor.
    • Add pickles or tahini sauce for an extra zing in your shawarma wrap.
    • If you are making this for a crowd, set up a shawarma station with different toppings and sauces so everyone can customize their own wrap.

    Making Chicken Shawarma at home is a delightful and interactive way to enjoy a traditionally street-side Middle Eastern dish. With this recipe, the tender, fragrant chicken and the array of fresh toppings wrapped in warm pita bread will transport your taste buds to the streets of Beirut or Istanbul. Kali orexi!