Pairing Wines with Lebanese food

Lebanese food is a delicious and diverse culinary tradition with a rich history and a unique flavour profile. From the savory dips and spreads of mezze to the aromatic spices and succulent meats of the main dishes, Lebanese cuisine is a true delight for the senses. If you're a fan of Lebanese food, you know that it can be a bit of a challenge to find the right wine to pair with it. The bold and complex flavours of Lebanese dishes can be tough to match, and you don't want to end up with a wine that overwhelms or clashes with the flavours of your meal.

The good news is that with a little bit of knowledge and guidance, it's relatively easy to find the perfect wine to complement your Lebanese feast. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Consider the spices and flavours of the dish

One of the most important things to consider when pairing wine with Lebanese food is the flavours and spices of the dish. Lebanon is known for its use of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and sumac, which can be a bit challenging to match with wine.

One option is to go with a wine that has similar flavours to the dish. For example, a wine with a spicy or savory profile, such as a Syrah or Zinfandel, could work well with a spicier Lebanese dish. On the other hand, if you're serving a dish that is more subtle in flavour, you might want to choose a wine that is more delicate and subtle as well, such as a Pinot Grigio or Viognier.

Think about the weight and richness of the dish

Another important factor to consider when pairing wine with Lebanese food is the weight and richness of the dish. If you're serving a hearty, richly flavoured dish, such as a lamb tangine or a meaty kebab, you'll want to choose a wine that can stand up to the flavours of the dish.

Full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Shiraz are all good options for pairing with hearty, flavourful dishes. They have enough body and depth of flavour to match the richness of the dish, without overwhelming it. On the other hand, if you're serving a lighter, more delicate dish, such as a vegetable mezze or a grilled fish, you'll want to choose a wine that is more light-bodied and delicate, such as a Pinot Noir or a Sauvignon Blanc.

Consider the acidity of the dish

Acidity is another important factor to consider when pairing wine with Lebanese food. Acidic foods, such as those made with lemon or vinegar, can be tough to match with wine because the acidity of the food can make the wine taste flat or dull.

One solution is to choose a wine that has a high acidity level, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Vermentino. These wines have a bright, zesty character that can help to balance out the acidity of the dish and bring out the flavours of the food. On the other hand, if you're serving a dish that is low in acidity, such as a rich, creamy dip or a slow-cooked stew, you might want to choose a wine with a lower acidity level, such as a Chardonnay or a Pinot Gris.

Don't be afraid to experiment

The beauty of wine and food pairing is that there are no hard and fast rules. The best wine for any given dish is ultimately a matter of personal preference. So don't be afraid to experiment and try different wines with your Lebanese dishes to see what works best for you. You can also ask your local wine shop or sommelier for recommendations.

As you experiment with different wine and food pairings, keep in mind that there are a few general principles that can help you find the perfect match. For example, you'll want to choose a wine that is complementary to the flavours of the dish, rather than trying to match them exactly. You'll also want to consider the weight and richness of the wine, as well as its acidity level, to ensure that it balances out the flavours of the dish.

With these tips in mind, you should be well on your way to finding the perfect wine to pair with your delicious Lebanese food. Whether you're serving a spicy lamb kebab or a creamy hummus dip, there is a wine out there that will bring out the best in your meal and make it an even more enjoyable experience.

Visit Maha East for Middle Eastern wine and fine dining

If you’d rather let us take care of the pairings, come to Maha East. From meze-style platters with flatbreads and pickled onions to filling lamb tagine and stuffed eggplant, Maha East is your destination for vibrant Middle Eastern food and drink. Check out our latest menu and make a reservation today.