Middle Eastern Mezze Platter

Lacto-veg (omit yogurt in tahini dressing for vegan)











We recently went to Singapore and stocked up on all manner of spices at the super fun shopping excursion of a mall called Mustafa Center.

While most spices were Indian, we also picked up some za'atar. I later realized this was the stuff from my memories of the streets of Montreal in the wee hours after the bars as I picked out some Lebanese pizzas with this liberally sprinkled on top. (Note: I guess it's technically a flatbread called mannakish za'atar and I should make it sometime, too.)

Source: theKitchn

When I happened upon some Italian eggplants (plumper, much rarer in Taipei than the skinny long Chinese variety) it seemed it was high time for a Middle Eastern-inspired dinner. I based this on this roasted za'atar eggplant recipe and made chappatis for the first time to go with. Delish!

Oat Bran Pancakes

Ovo-lacto

We were treated to these pancakes while visiting Rich's sister in Singapore. She's since moved back to the UK, but we've adopted the recipe and love it. It is a breeze to make and delish.

Fresh or stewed fruit, chopped nuts, yogurt, maple syrup are good sweet options. I think you could easily top with some sautéed spinach and mushrooms and a sprinkle of cheese for savory.

Loose Recipe

1. Mix oat bran with yogurt, and an egg or two, depending on total amount. You don't need that much batter, they are very hearty.
2. We were fed with an addition of turmeric and rosemary that went fine even with a sweet topping, so we do something similar. Turmeric adds a pretty color and is a health booster. A little goes a long way.
3. Make 'em big or small and top as your heart desires. Yum.