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Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the Middle East? Fatteh, a beloved dish across the region, beckons you with its tantalizing blend of textures and flavors. In this article, we'll guide you through crafting this exquisite Middle Eastern delight in your own kitchen, allowing you to savor the rich traditions of the Levant.

What is Fatteh?

Fatteh is a traditional Levantine dish that celebrates the art of layering. It typically consists of toasted or fried pieces of pita bread, layered with creamy yogurt, savory chickpeas, and a harmonious blend of spices. Often topped with aromatic sauces, herbs, and nuts, Fatteh offers a symphony of taste and texture that's hard to resist.

Ingredients:

For the Chickpea Layer:

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Yogurt Layer:

2 cups plain Greek yogurt

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons tahini (optional)

Juice of 1 lemon

Salt to taste

For the Pita Bread:

2-3 pieces of pita bread, toasted or fried until crispy Olive oil for toasting (if needed)

For the Garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro Pine nuts, toasted Ground paprika or sumac for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chickpea Layer:

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chickpeas, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to absorb the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Yogurt Layer:

In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, tahini (if using), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

3. Prepare the Pita Bread:

Toast or fry the pita bread until it's crispy and golden brown. Break it into bite-sized pieces.

4. Assemble the Fatteh:

In a serving dish, start by placing a layer of crispy pita bread pieces at the bottom. Spoon the prepared chickpea mixture over the pita bread layer, spreading it evenly. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chickpeas, creating a creamy layer. Top with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, toasted pine nuts, and a sprinkle of ground paprika or sumac for a burst of color and flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Fatteh is best enjoyed immediately while the pita bread is still crispy. Dig in with a spoon, making sure to get a little bit of each layer in every bite.

The Delights of Fatteh:

Fatteh is a testament to the art of layering and balancing flavors in Middle Eastern cuisine. The crispy pita, creamy yogurt, and savory chickpeas, all complemented by aromatic herbs and nuts, create a dish that's a feast for the senses. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a satisfying main course, Fatteh is a Middle Eastern masterpiece that never disappoints.