Mezze is a collection of small dishes that are typically served as appetizers in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. You can eat these dishes on their own or put them together to make a mezze platter, which is a popular way to try a lot of different tastes and textures in one meal. It is often served with flatbread and wine, beer, or spirits. These dishes are usually vegetarian or vegan, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Dips are an essential component of a mezze platter. They are usually served alongside other small dishes, such as olives, cheese, grilled vegetables, and stuffed grape leaves. Dips come in a wide variety of flavors, from the tangy and garlicky tzatziki to the rich and smoky baba ghanoush.
The History of Mezze and Dips
The origins of mezze and dips are not well documented, but they have a long history dating back to the ancient Persian and Ottoman empires and are considered a national institution in Lebanon with over 30 different types of dishes served. These regions have a long history of trading with one another, and this exchange of goods and ideas likely contributed to the development of mezze and dips.
Today, mezze and dips are enjoyed around the world and have become a popular way to share food and connect with others. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal with friends, a mezze platter with a variety of delicious dips is sure to be a hit.
If you're looking for a flavorful, easy-to-prepare appetizer that will wow your guests, a mezze platter is the way to go. And what better way to complement your mezze platter than with some delicious dips?
Here are five dips you simply must include on your mezze platter.
1. Hummus
No mezze platter is complete without a bowl of creamy, savory hummus. This classic Middle Eastern dip is made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, and it's perfect for dipping veggies, pita bread, or crackers.
Taste: Savory
Total time: 10 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 166
2. Tzatziki
Tzatziki is a tangy, garlicky Greek dip that's perfect for dipping fresh vegetables, pita bread, or grilled meats. It's made from thick Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and fresh dill or mint.
Taste: Tangy
Total time: 20 minutes
Prep time: 15 minutes
Calories per serving: 51
3. Muhammara
Muhammara is a delicious and colorful dip from Syria made with roasted red peppers, walnuts, and pomegranate molasses. It has a sweet and spicy flavor and is perfect for dipping pita bread, crackers, or raw veggies.
Taste: Sweet and Spicy
Total time: 35 minutes
Prep time: 20 minutes
Calories per serving: 114
4. Baba Ghanoush
Baba ghanoush is a creamy, smoky dip made from roasted eggplants, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. This dip is perfect for dipping pita bread, veggies, or crackers, and it's also great as a spread for sandwiches.
Taste: Smoky
Total time: 50 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 72
5. Labneh
Labneh is a tangy, creamy dip made from strained yogurt. It's popular throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean and is often served as a dip or spread. It's also great as a topping for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or salads.
Taste: Tangy
Total time: 24 hours (to strain yogurt)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 91
What to Serve These Dips With
These dips can be served with a variety of accompaniments. For hummus, try serving it with pita bread, sliced vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers, or crackers. Tzatziki pairs well with grilled meats or seafood, fresh veggies, or pita chips. Muhammara can be enjoyed with pita bread, crackers, or raw veggies, and is also delicious as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Baba ghanoush can be served with pita bread, veggies, or crackers and is also great as a spread on sandwiches or as a topping for salads. Finally, labneh is perfect for dipping with fresh veggies or pita bread, or it can be used as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.
All five of these dips are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for your mezze platter. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a delicious and healthy snack, these dips are sure to impress. So why not try them all and see which one is your favorite?