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Traditional Turkish Dishes You Must Try

Turkish food is a delicious fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Turkish cuisine is becoming more and more well-known worldwide as it uses a lot of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients. You can find Turkish food in Piscataway and try some of the most amazing traditional Turkish dishes. The following are some of the most famous traditional dishes that you must try:

Kebabs

A core part of Turkish cooking is kebabs. Kebabs can be found everywhere in Turkey, whether it be in restaurants or street vendors. Kebabs are available in a wide variety. For instance, you can find minced meat-based Adana kebabs and marinated meat-based shish kebabs as well. Typically, kebabs are eaten with bread, salad, and rice as well.

Baklava

A delicious pastry called baklava is prepared from layers of filo dough, honey, and chopped nuts like walnuts or pistachios. Baklava is a well-liked Turkish dessert all around the world, and it is commonly presented with Turkish coffee.

Borek 

The traditional fillings for the savory pastry known as borek include cheese, spinach, or ground beef.  It is a well-liked delicacy in Turkey and is sold at bakeries and local restaurants.

Turkish Pide

A flatbread that is frequently loaded with veggies, meat, and cheese is known as Turkish Pide. The fusion of Turkish spices gives it a distinctive flavor despite being similar to pizza in appearance.

Meze

Meze is a group of little meals that are typically served as a snack or appetizer. Meze frequently come with bread and are served with different types of salads, dips, and shellfish.

Lahmacun

Topped with veggies, minced meat, and herbs, Lahmacun is a thin, crispy meal resembling pizza. It is a well-liked street snack in Turkey that is generally served with a dab of lemon on it.

Manti

A sort of dumpling, manti is usually served with a garlic yogurt sauce with a drizzle of chile oil on it. Manti is usually stuffed with spices mixed in minced meat.  In Turkey, it is a well-liked comfort food that is frequently offered at festivals and special occasions.

Doner Kebab

This is a type of sandwich made with roasted meat of chicken or lamb usually. It is served in a bread wrap. It is a well-liked fast dish that is frequently consumed on the go in Turkey.

Turkish Delight 

Typically flavored with citrus or rosewater, Turkish delight can be identified as sweet candies that are gummy. This is another popular Turkish dessert that is commonly served with Turkish coffee.

Sis Tavuk

Generally served with toast, salad, and rice, Sis Tavuk is roasted over charcoal and is a type of marinated chicken skewer. This is a well-liked Turkish dish and is frequently offered at eateries and food carts.

Any food enthusiast must try Turkish meals that highlight the unique flavors and ingredients of authentic Turkish cuisine. No matter what kind of food lover you are, there is something for you to try in Turkish cuisine for sure.

What are Some Creative Ways to Eat Falafel?

While there are many other things made with chickpeas that are absolutely delicious, falafel has a special place in our hearts. Falafel is traditionally made with chickpeas that are soaked, dried, and ground. There is the seasoning of ingredients like pepper, cumin, salt, parsley, and garlic. This mixture of ground chickpeas with flavoured seasoning is then shaped as preferred and deep-fried.

Conventionally, falafel in Piscataway is eaten with pita bread. And the final toppings of hummus go into the bite to make it more flavorful and delicious. But we must tell you that traditions can be broken, and you can eat falafel in several other ways to enjoy it even more. You can change the beans that go into your falafel and try baking instead of frying them. Also, pita bread and hummus can be replaced with buns and sauces. Let’s have a look at the different possible ways to eat falafel.

Falafel burger 

We cannot deny the fact that falafel is actually made to be eaten with pita bread; it can taste great with burgers as well. To create a true explosion of flavours, you can add avocado sauce to your falafel burgers. When the crunchy bites of falafel are combined with heavenly creamy avocado and freshly chopped spinach, it tastes wonderful. While a falafel burger is made to stand out from the conventional crowd, it actually tastes like something out of the world.

Falafel tacos 

While we already know that falafel with pita is a good combination, it sounds sane enough to try wrapping them in tortillas. You can try having falafel tacos with your favourite kind of shell. The fusion literally turns out delicious, not to mention that your favourite sauces and dips can make it even more delicious.

Falafel waffles 

You cannot resist trying amazing falafel waffles. These lip-smacking waffles have a crunchy exterior and soft interior which makes them delectable. Falafel waffles can turn out to be a great alternative for those who cannot eat deep-fried falafels. This healthier option can be eaten at any time of the day, and you can top them with hummus and other tasty garnishings.

Falafel with pistachios 

This version of falafel is going to taste absolutely good; moreover, they are easier to prepare as well. Adding the nuts of pistachios can make the dish even crunchier while also giving it a deliciously creamy and nutty flavour. The warmth of pistachio falafel is going to be absolutely irresistible.

Sweet potato falafels 

Baked falafels made with sweet potato have lower levels of fat and natural sweetness. You can serve it with avocado dipping sauce, and there would be a sudden outburst of flavours. The flavours of cumin, turmeric, and garlic are added to the falafels. When you are searching for a light yet filling supper, sweet potato falafels can turn out to be great.

While traditional falafels are nothing less than delicious, it is going to be a great experience to experiment with new flavours as well. Serve them with your favourite sauces and dips for a mind-blowing delicacy.

What Makes Mediterranean Food One of a Kind?

You must be aware of Mediterranean food. This cuisine is famous for its nutrient-rich nature and is advertised in the media as well as by local health agencies for the same. If you don’t know what makes this diet so beneficial, this blog is for you. But to begin with, let’s take a look at what Mediterranean food actually is.

What is Mediterranean food?

Mediterranean cuisine is defined by the food and preparation methods used by the people living around the Mediterranean region. Simply put, it is the food from the people living from Spain to Morocco, Greece, Tunisia, and more. The credit for the popularity of this food goes to food writer Elizabeth David’s book in 1950. The focus of Mediterranean food is on fresh products, noticeable flavors, and simple preparation. Most Mediterranean recipes have a lot of vegetables, legumes, grains, olive oil, and aromatic herbs.

What is not in Mediterranean food?

No ingredient is completely prohibited in the Mediterranean diet. Animal products are also consumed in smaller amounts however less often than plant-based food. Some of the items that Mediterranean foods have in limited amounts include:

  • Added sugars
  • Sugary beverages such as soda
  • High sodium
  • Highly processed food
  • Refined carbohydrates
  • Saturated animal fat

Why people all over the world love Mediterranean food

For decades, the Mediterranean diet has been considered one of the healthiest in the world. Moreover, across the entire Mediterranean region, diet varies greatly. Many people think that Mediterranean food only comes from Greece and Italy which is not true. The Mediterranean diet is a reflection of what people eat in this region. Many people grow at least some of their food and they eat fish and lamb more than beef because fishes are readily available and they easily raise lamb and goats. All in all, health benefits, sustainability, and ease of availability are some of the reasons why Mediterranean cuisine is so popular throughout the world.

  • It can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke as it reduces blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and increases HDL cholesterol levels.
  • It can reduce the chances of cancer. Mediterranean food comes with high antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients which can help fight cancer.
  • It can slow or prevent the development of brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
  • It can help prevent or manage the progression of type-2 diabetes due to fiber and other blood sugar supportive nutrients.
  • It may prevent or reduce oxidative stress.

Last words

Apart from its appetizing taste, Mediterranean cuisine is known to promote longevity or long and healthy life. If you are living in New Jersey and want to try Mediterranean food, look no further than Qaswa BBQ and Grill. It is the best Mediterranean food restaurant in NJ so you can eat whatever you want without breaking the bank or getting exhausted by trying several recipes from YouTube.

What Are the Best Ways to Eat Sauteed Chicken?

Sauteed chicken is common in many people’s diets, as it is quick and easy to prepare, and can be cooked in a variety of different ways. You can find some of the best sautéed chicken in Piscataway as you visit a good barbeque and grill restaurant. If you’re looking to add some variety to your meals, or simply want to know the best ways to eat sauteed chicken, here are some tips and ideas to get you started.

With vegetables

One of the best ways to eat sauteed chicken is by pairing it with your favorite vegetables. This starts with sautéing the chicken in a pan with some olive oil and then adding in some diced carrots, bell peppers, onions, and whatever other vegetables you like. This is a great way to get in some extra nutrients and make your meal more balanced.

Over pasta

Sauteed chicken is also a great topping for pasta dishes. The pasta needs to be cooked in a simple manner according to your preference and then some diced sauteed chicken is tossed in with your choice of sauce. You can go for a classic tomato sauce, or try something a little more creative, like a pesto or Alfredo sauce.

In a wrap

Sauteed chicken is also a great filling for wraps. Chicken is simply cooked in a pan with some spices and vegetables and then wrapped with some lettuce, tomato, and cheese in a flour tortilla. This is a quick and easy meal that you can take on the go.

In stir-fries

Sauteed chicken is also a great addition to stir-fries. In this also, chicken can be sauteed and tossed in any sauce preferred by you. You can go for a classic sesame oil and soy sauce combination, or try something a little more adventurous, like a spicy curry or peanut sauce.

In your salad

Sauteed chicken is also a great topping for salads. Chicken is first cooked with some spices, and then toss it with your choice of greens, vegetables, and dressing. This is a great way to add some protein to your salad and make it more filling.

On a pizza

If you’re feeling a little bit more adventurous, you can also try sauteed chicken with your pizza. Simply cooked chicken in some spices and vegetables, then topped on your pizza, along with your choice of cheese and other toppings.

In a sandwich

Sauteed chicken is also a great filling for sandwiches. Chicken cooked with vegetables and spices is sandwiched between two slices of bread with some lettuce, tomato, and cheese. This is a quick and easy meal that you can take on the go.

Overall, there are many different ways to eat sauteed chicken, and the options are only limited by your imagination. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, or something a little more creative, sauteed chicken is a great choice. So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, give sauteed chicken a try and see how it can add some variety to your diet.

Top 5 Health Benefits That Come With Eating Lamb

Consuming lamb chops that have been mildly cooked is safe as well as healthy. Lamb which is common red meat used in Mediterranean and American fares is safe to eat if you are trying to control your cholesterol levels, in moderation. Opting for the right cut of lamb and preparing it healthy is also a crucial factor.

According to some studies, consumption of a high amount of overcooked processed meat can increase the cholesterol in your body. However, there are potential benefits of consuming mildly-cooked, lean lamb a couple of times a week. Further in this blog, we have listed five important health benefits of consuming lamb.

A good source of iron

As it is red meat, lamb inherently has a lot of iron than other sources such as chicken or fish. It offers you a healthy dietary option. You can consume it to overcome and prevent iron deficiency.

A powerhouse of Vitamin B

You can consume lamb chops in New Jersey as they can be an awesome source of Vitamin B12. Consume just 3 ounces of lamb meat and it will fulfill your half of the requirement of vitamin B12 and other types of vitamin B. Vitamin B helps the functioning of our nervous system and ensure that the actual nerve cells are healthy.

Boosts your immune system

Consuming just 3 ounces of lamb offers 4.4 mg of zinc, which is 30% of our daily value. Zinc is essential to ensure a healthy immune system. The immune system is vital to healing wounds and DNA along with helping protein synthesis.

Anti-inflammatory assets

Lamb does contain fat however a huge portion of that comes with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Thus, you lose fat and improve lean muscle mass.

A healthy source of protein

Consumption of just 3 ounces of protein provides 23 grams of protein. Protein is extremely vital for the human body. It acts as a slow-burning, sustainable fuel for the body. Moreover, it helps the body to repair, build, and maintain muscles.

What is the healthiest method to cook lamb?

When cooking different cuts of lamb, it is vital to opt for the best cooking methods. For instance, when cooking a shoulder cut, stew can be the best option and when cooking ground lamb, doing a healthy sautéed will be the best. Lamb chops also offer a healthy as well as a tasty way to consume lamb.

Moreover, how the sheep are raised and fed on the farm contributes to the health benefits of the lamb. It has a lot to do with the cut of the lamb, cooking methods, and the frequency of its consumption. The best temperature to cook the lamb is 145 degrees Fahrenheit as most of the microorganisms on this kind of meat are on the outside.

With this, we are concluding this post here. If you have any more doubts or concerns about lamb chops in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the experts.

What Are the Essential Ingredients of Mediterranean Food?

The Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest diets in the world. It is based on the traditional foods that people eat in countries around the Mediterranean Sea. Research has shown that the Mediterranean diet can help you lose weight, improve your heart health, and reduce your risk of several chronic diseases. The Mediterranean diet is high in healthy fats, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish. It is low in red meat, sugar, and refined carbs.

The combination of healthy and delightful ingredients of the Mediterranean diet provides all its health benefits. For the same reason, you will find various Mediterranean dishes in any healthy lifestyle blog. It is linked to longevity, decreased risk of cardinal problems, and other health benefits. You can taste authentic Mediterranean food at the best Mediterranean food restaurant in NJ.

Mediterranean people associate food with something that can be enjoyed with others. They see food as a source of pleasure. Here are some details on the delightful ingredients vital to the Mediterranean diet to improve your understanding of the cuisine:

Olive Oil

It is found that olives are being used for the last 6000-8000 years. It is a vital component of the Mediterranean diet because the regional climate and terrain conditions are suitable for cultivating such hardy trees. Today, olive oil is consumed by almost all health-conscious people due to its capability to promote heart health. The olive oil we consume today is monosaturated healthy oil which is green in color.

Seafood

The abundance of seafood is another thing you will notice when you start exploring Mediterranean cuisine. The seafood of the Mediterranean is harvested and prepared as per the local taste and is served soaked in delightful flavors while maintaining its delicate texture. Mediterranean seafood includes lobster, abalone, shrimp, prawns, and other freely available seafood alternatives. Get ready to be spoiled for choice.

Fish

Since each Mediterranean country borders the sea, fish is a stable food of Mediterranean cuisine. It includes anything from sea bass and tuna to swordfish or sardines. Fish in Mediterranean cuisine is served in various ways, including grilled, fried, or stewed in a rich vegetable sauce.

Lamb

While beef, pork, and veal dishes are popular in Spain, France, and Italy, lamb is frequently used in North African and Eastern Mediterranean cuisines. There are a variety of lamb dishes you can try at the best Mediterranean restaurant in NJ, like lamb chops, lamb kofta, and sauteed lamb.

Wine

Wine is said to be produced in the Mediterranean region for at least 6000 years. The climate here is ideal for the cultivation of grapevines, which makes wine drinking an inseparable part of enjoying authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Its delectable taste will satiate your taste bud’s craving for something delightful while enjoying your Mediterranean meal. Moreover, red wine is linked to a lower risk of heart disease.

Conclusion

The Mediterranean diet is a healthy way to eat. It is based on the traditional foods of the Mediterranean region. The diet is high in healthy fats, fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fish. It is good for your health and taste buds, so you must give it a try.

Mediterranean Food: Features and Health Benefits

The Mediterranean diet is known for its nutritious and delicious cuisine, which is why it is one of the world’s most popular diets. This diet emphasizes using fresh, whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, as well as healthy fats like olive oil. Animal proteins are consumed in moderation, and there is an emphasis on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

What makes Mediterranean cuisine special?

The Mediterranean diet is not just about what you eat but also about how you eat. This diet encourages people to slow down and savor their meals, as well as socialize with friends and family while eating. You can try a variety of lip-smacking Mediterranean food in Piscataway at the best restaurants. The cuisines in the Mediterranean diet include a variety of dishes, like soups, salads, appetizers, main dishes, and desserts. Common ingredients include olives, olive oil, garlic, tomatoes, onions, eggplant, feta cheese, and herbs such as oregano, rosemary, and thyme. Seafood such as fish, shellfish, and calamari are also popular.

One of the most distinguishing features of this cuisine is the desire of the makes to create the most practically balanced ratio that is far from a dull diet. Mediterranean food is a perfect combination of concepts of wholesome foods and gastronomic delights.

The health benefits of consuming a Mediterranean diet

The Mediterranean diet has been linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. This diet is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Mediterranean cuisine’s dietary pattern is primarily characterized by the consumption of large quantities of fresh vegetables, legumes, fruits, and cereals, preferably whole grains, and extra virgin oil. All such ingredients ensure a good supply of fiber, antioxidants, phytosterols, polyphenols, and unsaturated fatty acids.

Even scientific studies have proven the positive impact of consuming the Mediterranean diet. It has been found that greater adherence to a Mediterranean diet is significantly associated with a reduced risk of overall mortality, cardiovascular mortality, cancer incidence and mortality, and incidences of Parkinson’s disease.

The low carbs consumption in the Mediterranean diet is helpful in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes by 30%. Most of the food in this cuisine has a low to moderate glucose index owing to the inclusion of significant quantities of fruits, veggies, fish, and nuts. Mediterranean food help in maintaining your blood sugar levels which further helps in reducing the risk of diabetes.

The Mediterranean diet also contributes to improving public health by contributing to the reduction of greenhouse emissions like carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, and more such gases from the livestock sector, which is responsible for 4/5th of emissions related to agriculture.

Parting Words

If you are looking for a healthy, delicious way to eat, the Mediterranean diet is an excellent choice. The combination of fresh, flavorful ingredients and healthy fats make this diet one of the most satisfying and healthiest around.

Why Should I Eat Halal Food Even If I Am Not a Muslim?

The word “Halal” means permissible in Arabic. According to Islam, all foods are considered halal if they aren’t specifically prohibited.

So what is Halal food?

Determining halal food is extremely simple. All food items that are free from any substances prohibited by Islamic Law are considered halal. These food items are processed, produced, manufactured, and stored in utensils, equipment, or machinery that have been washed as per Islamic law.

What are the foods that are not Halal?

  • Alcoholic drinks and intoxicant
  • Carnivorous animals, birds of prey, etc.
  • Non-Halal animal fat
  • Tallow of non-Halal animals
  • Enzymes but Microbial Enzymes are allowed
  • Gelatine sourced from non-halal sources
  • Lard
  • L-cysteine if it is from human hair
  • Non-Halal Animal Shortening
  • Pork and anything from pig
  • All forms of rennet should be avoided except for plant / microbial/synthetic – rennet obtained from a halal slaughtered animal

Moreover, all food items that contain the above items aren’t considered Halal.

Why should I eat Halal?

There are countless why one should eat Halal. And even countless non-muslims eat only Halal food because of those reasons.

  • Halal is less painful for animals. It is proven that during Halal slaughtering, animals feel less pain.
  • Halal animals are always fed vegetarian food which means their meat is rich in vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-oxidents which are good for the human body.
  • Halal meat doesn’t have blood which means, it tastes better as blood contains lactic acid which negatively affects the taste.
  • You don’t need to pay for the weight of blood while buying the meat so you can save money.
  • This food is free from any bacteria or harmful substances so you can be sure about your health. Halal meat doesn’t have antibiotics, growth hormones, and preservatives. These things can adversely affect human health.

What Halal food options do I have in Piscataway?

Choosing halal food doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice the satisfaction of your taste buds. You can get a range of appetizing halal food items at Qaswa BBQ and Grill. If you’re looking for a specialty item, we might recommend the Halal Adana Kebabs in Piscataway. They are juicy, flavorful, and melt in the mouth like butter. Mounted on an iron skewer and grilled on charcoal, they are known for their unique combination of spices.

Conclusion

Halal food isn’t confined to Muslims. It is about healthy eating without leaving anything. It is scientifically proven that halal food is healthier and tastier. So if you are into the meat and non-veg food, we suggest you go for halal food only.

What Are Some Must-try Turkish Dishes?

You must already be aware of the famous Turkish dish kebab. However, we must tell you that Turkey has a lot more to offer you, especially when it comes to delicious cuisines.

We can say thanks to the wide and diverse landscape of the city that there are varieties available in Turkish dishes. The richness of the food is primarily because of the varying geographical features of the place such as rivers, snowy mountains, and fertile plains and plateaus. The variety of food ranges from dishes based on olive oil on the Mediterranean coast, mildly spicy delicacies around the east and southeast to heart-filling pastries found around central Anatolia.

Unlike most other cuisines, Turkish dishes are not primarily based on seasoning. In fact, the main ingredients of the delicacy are fresh ingredients that have been freshly kneaded, rolled, shaped, and cooked. Both dedication and passion are key elements in Turkish cuisine.

If you are a dedicated food lover, then you cannot avoid trying Turkish food in Piscataway. The following are some of the must-try Turkish dishes for you:

Saksuka

You can find a wide variety of dishes based on vegetables referred to as zeytinyagli yemegi in Turkish cuisine. These are mainly cooked in oil of olive. Most of these vegetable dishes have ingredients like eggplants, green beans, and artichokes in them.

Eggplant is largely used in these vegetable-based dishes. Sasuka is among the most delicious dishes based on eggplant. The eggplant is cubed and then cooked with other veggies like chili, tomatoes, garlic, and zucchini. The quantity of the ingredients in the dish is majorly dependent on the place where it is being cooked because people from different regions like their food cooked in a different manner.

Ezogelin Corba

There is an interesting tale associated with this dish. Once upon a time, there was a woman who was not happy in her marriage and she dreamt of a dish to win over the heart of her mother-in-law.

After this, she prepared a dish that was mainly a soup made of red lentils with grated tomato, tomato salca, and onion in it. At last, it was served with the toppings of chili flakes and dried mint.

While nobody is actually sure if the dish successfully worked, it is still traditionally popular.

Kisir 

This is basically a salad made with main ingredients like tomatoes, wheat, parsley, garlic, and mint in it.

All around Turkey, you would be able to find a slightly different variant of this dish. It is mainly sipped down hot.

Dondurma 

Have you eaten ice cream using a knife and fork before? Well, you can try the traditional Turkish dessert known as Dondurma. The primary ingredients of the dish are milk, mastic, and sahlep.

The chewiness of the dish comes from the natural gum mastic. Whereas the velvet-like texture of the item is given by sahlep which is made with orchids and seems like flour.

These are some of the major Turkish dishes that you should try out as soon as possible. However, this is not the end. You can enjoy several other delicacies that belong to Turkey.