Lebanon holds a certain allure for many of us in the west: we know so little of its rich history but the names alone of the people that shaped the Lebanon's cultural landscape; Egyptians, Persians, ancient Greeks and Ottomans, evoke wonder and romance. In this new book, Hussien Dekmak opens the door to this country's food and traditions with over 100 delicious, authentic recipes that you can cook at home. With emphasis on fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, Lebanese food reflects the healthy Mediterranean diet, with an abundance of fresh vegetables, olive oil, garlic, fish, lamb, chicken and grains. Hussien shows how you can cater for all tastes and appetites by putting different dishes together from chapters on Soups, Salads, Hot and Cold Starters, Main Dishes, Barbecues, and Sweets and Drinks. Discover the secrets behind preparing classic dishes such as creamy hummus, as well as delectable starters like manakeish (flatbread grilled with thyme and sesame seeds) and moutabal (smoky aubergine dip with tahini and lemon juice). Accompany with ardi shawke bil lahme (artichoke hearts topped with minced lamb, tomatoes and pine nuts) or perhaps shish taouk (cubes of chicken breast marinated and grilled over charcoal) and finish with ashtalieh (Lebanese clotted cream topped with pistachios and sugar syrup). The Lebanese Cookbook is an indulgent and inspirational look at this delicious and unique cuisine and is illustrated with sumptuous food photography from Martin Brigdale that brings Lebanese food to life as never before.