From the Lands of Figs and Olives: Over 300 Delicious and Unusual Recipes from the Middle East and North Africa

I'm usually one who prefers to eat instead of cook, but the recipes in this cookbook are easy enough to follow, and many dishes are given a brief history of their origin, which more books should do. I consider it very important to understand how what you are eating came to be. Many of the ingredients are common enough, and the few that aren't are not too difficult to find. Definitely recommend this for anyone interested in making their own Middle eastern meals.

This is an amazing book! I have been able to recreate dishes that I ate as a child. There are excellent traditional recipes for Lebanese, Egyptian and Palestinian/Jordanian food. Also included are several versions of the same recipe with regional differences which is a rare treat for those with more experience and knowledge of middle eastern food. A must have.

Excellent and easy to follow directions have made me a gourmet cook from all of the recipes I've tried. There are a myriad of recipes and selections for anyone who loves to cook and of course, for anyone who loves to eat. The variety of dishes gives one an excellent view of the palate of the Arab world and the preparation instructions make one a gourmet cook each time a recipe is made. Excellent results from an encyclopediatic recipe collection! No kitchen should be without it!

If you only purchase one cookbook on food or the Middle East, this is a good candidate. Mr Salloum has written a charming and accessible book that covers a wide scope and instructs in a clear and concise fashion. The recipes seem to be well-tested. I have made the some of the savoury pastries with very good results. I eagerly await his next effort. He does both his Canadian and Middle eastern roots proud!