Meze

Meze, also known as mezze, is a delightful assortment of small dishes served as appetizers in regions such as the Middle East, the Balkans, Greece, and North Africa. The manner in which meze is enjoyed can vary significantly from one culture to another. In some areas, it forms part of a multi-course meal, while in others, it serves as the perfect accompaniment to drinks or a casual chat.

The word "meze" derives from Persian, meaning "taste" or "snack." These dishes can include a wide variety of foods such as cheeses, salads, seafood, meats, and vegetables. Each country, such as Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and those in the Balkans, infuses its own local flavors and ingredients into its meze offerings.

In places like Syria, Lebanon, and Cyprus, meze can actually constitute an entire meal. You will find a succession of vegetarian, meat, and fish options served one after another. In the Balkans, meze resembles Mediterranean antipasti, often featuring cured meats, cheeses, and salads.

Meze is typically accompanied by alcoholic beverages such as rakı, ouzo, arak, and wine, which greatly enhance the dining experience. Different regions have specific traditions for serving meze, and there are even special establishments dedicated to offering a variety of these dishes to their guests. Meze is often enjoyed in social settings, making it a wonderful way to share food and relish each other's company.