A selection of small, flavorful dishes served as appetizers or snacks, common in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. meze is often enjoyed communally, allowing diners to sample a variety of tastes and textures before a main course or as a meal itself. The assortment typically includes items like dips (hummus, tzatziki), salads (tabbouleh, Greek salad), pickled vegetables, olives, cheeses, grilled meats, and seafood. The concept emphasizes sharing, conviviality, and a leisurely pace of eating, often accompanied by alcoholic beverages like ouzo or raki. It offers a diverse culinary journey, reflecting the local flavors and traditions of the region.
Meze meaning with examples
- For our dinner party, we decided on a vibrant meze spread. We included creamy hummus with warm pita bread, tangy baba ghanoush, marinated olives, and a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. Guests were able to mingle, chat, and graze on these delicious small plates, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. It offered a perfect precursor to the grilled lamb kebabs we planned to serve later.
- The restaurant specialized in authentic meze. We started with a selection of cold meze: a velvety labneh drizzled with olive oil, a refreshing fattoush salad, and some spicy marinated peppers. The flavors were incredible, and we eagerly anticipated what the hot meze would bring. We savored each bite, appreciating the diverse culinary elements. The selection provided a remarkable spectrum of taste and texture.
- During our trip to Greece, we indulged in a meze experience every night. We'd order a platter overflowing with local cheeses, grilled octopus, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and crispy fried zucchini. Each dish was a celebration of fresh, local ingredients, showcasing the simple yet vibrant flavors of the region. It allowed us to sample many local dishes, helping us expand our appreciation of Greek cuisine.
- We were looking for a lighter meal, and the meze was a perfect choice. We crafted a simple meze: a platter of feta cheese with fresh oregano, hummus with carrot sticks, and some toasted sesame seeds. The freshness and combination of flavors provided a quick and easy solution that did not take away from the taste of the full meal. The variety of flavors provided a delightful culinary experience.