Hidden Animal Ingredients In Middle Eastern Food - Know Before You Eat!

Many of us who follow a vegan diet are under the assumption that Middle Eastern food is one of the safest cuisines we could eat, given that veganism has strong roots in the Middle East. However, there are more ingredients in this kind of cuisine than meets the eye, and it is always a good idea to do your research before ordering a dish. Today, The Vegan Lab team decided to investigate some of the most common dishes in Egypt that can contain certain hidden animal ingredients.

Here are some items to take a closer look at:

Bedouin bread

This may come as a surprise to you, but Bedouin Bread, a staple in Dahab and all over Egypt, is not always vegan. While the ingredients are simple - flour, water, and salt - some vendors add milk or yogurt to the dough for a softer texture. To make sure your Bedouin Bread is vegan-friendly, ask the vendor about their ingredients or opt for bread from The Vegan Lab in Dahab.

Hummus

Hummus is an integral part of Middle Eastern cuisine, and vegans needn't worry as it is generally vegan-friendly. However, some traditional recipes might include yogurt, which are dairy-based, and therefore not vegan. It is always important to inquire about the ingredients in the hummus dip.

Falafel

Falafel, a Middle Eastern favorite, is a vegan staple that is made with ground chickpeas, spices, and herbs. However, some falafel recipes can include egg or milk, so it is important to inquire before ordering. Additionally, the falafel sold in the Middle East is often deep-fried in oil, which may come in contact with meat or animal derivatives of any kind, so it is always better to go to a specialized vegan restaurant like The Vegan Lab Restaurant in Dahab.

Baklava

We all agree that it is the most delicious Egyptian sweet, right? Well, unfortunately, traditional Baklava recipes contain honey and butter, making it non-vegan. But don't worry! Vegan versions of this sweet treat can be found in some specialized vegan bakeries. Ensure to check the ingredients before indulging.

Final tips

It is also worth mentioning that Egypt has a rich culture of street food, and many of these options can also be enjoyed by vegans. Some popular vegan-friendly street foods include roasted corn on the cob, fresh fruit juices, baked sweet potatoes, and koshari from local vendors.

Conclusion:

Although Middle Eastern cuisine is often considered vegan-friendly, it is crucial to exercise caution while choosing the dish, considering the various hidden ingredients used. The ideal choice is to eat at vegan-friendly restaurants like The Vegan Lab in Dahab because you can be confident that the dishes are completely plant-based. So, before you dig into a Middle Eastern dish, make sure you ask about the ingredients, and have a delightful vegan culinary experience.