Best Dishes to Order at Al-Basha’s Palestinian Grill in Paterson, NJ
We get asked the same question almost every night. A customer walks up to the counter, looks at the menu, and pauses. Shawarma. Musakhan. Kebab. Hummus is made in a few different ways. Then they turn to us and ask, “What should I get?” It’s a fair question, and honestly, one of our favorite ones […]
Where to Find the Best Halal Shawarma in Paterson, NJ
If you are hunting for the best shawarma Paterson, NJ, has to offer, start in South Paterson, the neighborhood widely known as “Little Ramallah.” Paterson is home to one of the largest Palestinian-American communities in the United States, and that history shows up on nearly every block of its restaurant scene. Here, shawarma is not […]
Shawarma vs Gyro: What’s the Difference?
Shawarma and gyro look similar thin slices of meat carved from a vertical rotisserie — but they come from different culinary traditions. Shawarma is a Levantine and Middle Eastern dish seasoned with warm spices and served with tahini or garlic sauce. Gyro is Greek, seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and served with tzatziki. Same cooking method, […]
Is Pita Bread Healthy?
Yes, pita bread can be a healthy choice in moderation. Whole-wheat pita is a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates and is relatively low in fat, while white pita is more refined and lower in fiber. What makes pita “healthy” is less about the bread by itself and more about what you eat it […]
Baklava vs Baklawa: Is There Really a Difference?
Baklava and baklawa are the same dessert; the difference is only in spelling, not the pastry itself. “Baklava” is the more common English and Turkish transliteration, while “baklawa” is the spelling more commonly used across Arabic-speaking regions of the Levant and Gulf. Both refer to the same layered, syrup-soaked pastry made with phyllo dough and […]
Mediterranean vs. Middle Eastern Food: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever wondered whether Lebanese food is Mediterranean, or whether Arabic food and Mediterranean food are the same thing, you’re not alone. This Mediterranean-Middle Eastern comparison gets asked constantly since the two traditions get used interchangeably, but they aren’t identical. Direct Answer: Mediterranean cuisine is defined by geography, covering any country that borders the […]
Is Falafel Vegetarian? Al-Basha’s Guide to Falafel Nutrition
Yes, falafel is vegetarian. In its traditional form, it’s also vegan, since it’s made almost entirely from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, with no meat, eggs, or dairy in the mixture itself. That said, the full answer is a little more nuanced once you factor in how and where it’s prepared. At Al-Basha, falafel is […]
Arabic Breakfast in Paterson, NJ: A Delicious Start to Your Day
Breakfast is more than the first meal of the day in Middle Eastern culture—it’s a time for family, fresh ingredients, and sharing flavorful dishes around the table. If you’re searching for an authentic Arabic breakfast in Paterson, New Jersey, Al-Basha offers a true taste of Palestinian and Middle Eastern hospitality with recipes inspired by Ramallah […]
What is Musakhan? Palestine’s National Dish Explained
Musakhan is a traditional Palestinian dish made with roasted chicken, caramelized onions, fragrant sumac, extra virgin olive oil, and taboon bread. Widely recognized as Palestine’s national dish, Musakhan is celebrated for its rich flavor, simple ingredients, and deep connection to Palestinian culture, agriculture, and hospitality, with chicken musakhan often serving as a centerpiece. For generations, […]
Best Middle Eastern Dishes to Serve at a Wedding Catering
A wedding is one of the most memorable celebrations in life, and the food served at the event often becomes one of the most talked-about aspects of the occasion. When it comes to creating a rich, flavorful, and unforgettable dining experience, Middle Eastern wedding catering stands out as an excellent choice. Known for its aromatic […]
