My cheap uncle hates spending money, but he wants to eat like a king. So he has handpicked 30 Middle Eastern recipes that are both delicious and easy on the wallet. Each one showcases the rich and diverse flavors of the region, from tangy pomegranate to smoky grilled meats. These dishes may sound exotic but are meant to be accessible, using common ingredients to create authentic meals at home. Whether you’re looking to try something new or save money on your next meal, my uncle’s hand-picked recipes are sure to fit the bill.
Mujadara
My uncle considers Mujadara a top budget-friendly pick with its simple combo of lentils and rice. In about 40 minutes, this dish delivers a comforting blend of earthy flavors with a hint of sweetness from caramelized onions. It’s a frugal yet hearty choice that satisfies both the stomach and the wallet.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara
Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
The Pomegranate chicken with walnuts is a favorite of my uncle for its cost-effectiveness and rich flavors. Ready in roughly an hour, the tangy pomegranate molasses and the crunch of walnuts make this chicken dish a delightful, budget-conscious meal. It’s a testament to how affordable ingredients can create a luxurious taste.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
Roasted bell pepper salad
Roasted bell pepper salad, a choice pick from my uncle, is a quick 30-minute creation that’s light on the pocket. With just bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil, this dish offers a smoky sweetness that’s both simple and sophisticated. It’s a budget-friendly way to add a splash of color and flavor to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted bell pepper salad
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs, recommended by my uncle, are a meatless marvel that doesn’t break the bank. Taking about 35 minutes, these kebabs made with chickpeas and spices provide a robust flavor profile. They’re a testament to how plant-based ingredients can make for an affordable, yet richly flavored meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Harissa Vinaigrette
Harissa Vinaigrette, a zesty choice from my uncle, can be whipped up in just 5 minutes. This spicy dressing combines harissa paste with everyday ingredients, offering an economical way to spice up salads. It’s a quick, fiery fix for a fraction of the cost.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Vinaigrette
Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka)
Eggplant & Eggs, or Shakshuka, is a breakfast staple my uncle swears by for its affordability and flavor. Within 30 minutes, the combination of eggplant, tomatoes, and eggs creates a smoky and savory dish. It’s a warm, comforting meal that proves budget-friendly can also be delicious.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka)
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce is a nutritious pick from my uncle that’s ready in 45 minutes. The ingredients are cost-effective, and the resulting creamy, nutty flavor is proof that affordable can still be gourmet. This dish is a wholesome meal that won’t strain your budget.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma, a favorite of my uncle’s, is a fuss-free dish that’s done in an hour. The spices used to season the chicken are common pantry items, making this a wallet-friendly version of a street food classic. It’s a savvy choice for those craving quick Middle Eastern flavors.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma
Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese
Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese, as recommended by my uncle, is a delicious bargain at just 10 minutes of prep time. This firm cheese offers a unique, salty flavor and is a versatile, inexpensive way to elevate a meal. It’s a simple pleasure that doesn’t cost much.
Get the Recipe: Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese
Fattoush Salad
Fattoush Salad is a refreshing dish that my uncle includes in his top budget-friendly picks. Ready in 20 minutes, it’s a mix of inexpensive ingredients like pita bread and fresh vegetables, dressed in a tangy sumac dressing. This salad is a cost-effective way to enjoy a crunchy, flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Fattoush Salad
Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
The Sabich Sandwich, featuring eggplant and potatoes, is a filling option my uncle loves for its cost efficiency. In about 30 minutes, this sandwich brings together inexpensive ingredients for a rich flavor experience. It’s a budget-friendly bite that’s popular on Middle Eastern streets.
Get the Recipe: Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
Classic mushroom bourekas are a savory treat my uncle recommends for those on a budget. With a 40-minute prep time, these pastries blend mushrooms and cheese for a rich, umami flavor in a flaky dough. They’re an affordable snack that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
Homemade labneh cheese balls
Homemade labneh cheese balls are a simple, elegant choice my uncle suggests for those watching their spending. Despite the 24-hour prep, the tangy cheese rolled in herbs is an inexpensive way to add sophistication to your appetizers. It’s a cultured addition to any spread without the high cost.
Get the Recipe: Homemade labneh cheese balls
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus, a pick from my uncle, is a 15-minute side dish that’s kind to your wallet. The asparagus is seasoned for a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, proving that healthy and budget-friendly can also be deliciously gourmet. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a veggie treat.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
Moroccan pearl couscous salad
Moroccan pearl couscous salad is a colorful dish my uncle selects for its budget-friendliness and takes about 30 minutes to make. The blend of couscous, herbs, and spices offers a light and aromatic flavor without a hefty price tag. It’s an affordable way to savor a medley of textures and tastes.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan pearl couscous salad
Kid-friendly beet hummus
Kid-friendly beet hummus is a quick, 10-minute snack that my uncle includes in his budget-conscious collection. The combination of beets, chickpeas, and tahini creates a slightly sweet and earthy taste that’s both wallet-friendly and appealing to all ages. It’s a vibrant and nutritious choice that won’t drain your funds.
Get the Recipe: Kid-friendly beet hummus
Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade)
Middle Eastern Mint Limonana is a refreshing, 5-minute beverage my uncle always recommends for a budget-friendly refreshment. Fresh mint, lemon juice, and sugar blend into a cooling drink that’s perfect for hot days. It’s an affordable way to enjoy a flavorful Middle Eastern classic.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade)
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate, and Balsamic, a choice from my uncle, are ready in 15 minutes. This dish transforms affordable Brussels sprouts into a tangy, sweet, and savory side. It’s a modern, budget-friendly take on traditional ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Sweet Potato Hummus
Sweet Potato Hummus, a twist on the classic dip, is a 30-minute recipe my uncle loves for its affordability. The blend of sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and tahini results in a creamy, slightly sweet spread that pairs well with various dippers. It’s a cost-effective and flavorful alternative to store-bought hummus.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini, chosen by my uncle, is an economical dish that’s ready in about 45 minutes. The roasted eggplant provides a deep, smoky flavor that’s ideal for those looking for a lighter, more budget-friendly dip. This version is perfect for cost-conscious food lovers.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant Tomato Stacks, a simple yet elegant dish, takes about 30 minutes to prepare and is a favorite of my uncle for its cost efficiency. The savory layers of roasted eggplant and tomato prove that simplicity can be both delicious and affordable. It’s a dish that celebrates the essence of Middle Eastern flavors on a budget.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Tahini Sauce
Tahini Sauce, a versatile condiment, is ready in just 5 minutes and is a staple in my uncle’s budget-friendly recipe collection. The creamy taste with a hint of zest is achieved with minimal, inexpensive ingredients. It’s the perfect complement to a variety of dishes without costing much.
Get the Recipe: Tahini Sauce
Spiced Grilled Corn
Spiced Grilled Corn, a flavorful side that takes about 20 minutes, is a top pick by my uncle for its affordability. Seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, it turns a common vegetable into a smoky and spicy treat. This dish shows how a simple ear of corn can become a culinary delight without straining your budget.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Grilled Corn
Fish with pomegranate sauce
Fish with pomegranate sauce is a dish my uncle prizes for its unique flavor and cost-effectiveness. In about 30 minutes, the fish is elevated by a tangy pomegranate sauce that adds a sweet and sour dimension. This dish exemplifies how seafood can be both indulgent and accessible to those mindful of their spending.
Get the Recipe: Fish with pomegranate sauce
Harissa Chicken
Harissa Chicken, selected by my uncle, is a spicy and aromatic dish that takes about 50 minutes to cook. Using affordable chicken thighs and a bold harissa marinade, it brings heat to the table without burning through your budget. This recipe is a favorite for those who love intense flavors and saving money.
Get the Recipe: Harissa Chicken
Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches
Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches is a vibrant dish my uncle includes in his budget-friendly repertoire, ready in about an hour. The combination of affordable root vegetables and canned peaches creates a sweet and savory stew. This tagine is a flavorful way to stretch your dollars while enjoying a traditional Moroccan meal.
Get the Recipe: Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich, recommended by my uncle, is a budget-conscious meal that’s assembled in about 30 minutes. Ground turkey, a cost-effective alternative to lamb, is seasoned with spices and served in pita bread. This sandwich is a testament to how affordable ingredients can yield a delicious, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps, a go-to for my uncle, are a quick 30-minute meal that won’t break the bank. The chicken is seasoned with pantry spices and wrapped in affordable flatbread. These wraps are a smart choice for those who want to enjoy a fast, flavorful, and economical meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
grilled chicken kofta kebab
Grilled chicken kofta kebab is a dish my uncle swears by for its simplicity and affordability. In about 30 minutes, ground chicken is transformed into flavorful kebabs with a blend of spices. This dish is a perfect example of how budget-friendly ingredients can create a satisfying and authentic Middle Eastern experience.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab
Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus
Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus is a staple in my uncle’s collection of economical recipes, ready in about 10 minutes. Made with chickpeas, tahini, and garlic, it’s a creamy dip that’s both cost-effective and universally loved. This hummus proves that great taste doesn’t have to come at a high price.
Get the Recipe: Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus