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Wine Pairing with Middle Eastern Spices

Middle Eastern cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavours, showcasing an array of spices, herbs, and cooking techniques that vary widely across the region. From the pungent allure of sumac to the warmth of cinnamon, these spices can create complex flavour profiles that delight the palate. Pairing wine with dishes from this vibrant culinary tradition may seem daunting, but with a little knowledge, you can elevate your dining experience to new heights.

Understanding Middle Eastern Flavours

Middle Eastern cooking employs a diverse range of ingredients, many of which are infused with spices that have distinct characteristics:

Common Spices and Their Profiles

  • Cumin: Earthy and warming, it adds depth to dishes like hummus and spiced meats.
  • Coriander: Bright and citrusy, it’s often used in salads and garnishes, enhancing freshness.
  • Sumac: Tart and slightly astringent, this spice is used to bring a tangy brightness to dishes like fattoush.
  • Cinnamon: Sweet and woody, adding warmth to both savoury and sweet preparations.
  • Cardamom: Floral and aromatic, frequently used in rice dishes and desserts.
  • Turmeric: Known for its vibrant yellow colour, it lends earthy notes to curries and stews.
  • Chili Peppers: Bring heat and warmth to many dishes, ranging from mild to fiery.

Wine Choices for Middle Eastern Cuisine

When pairing wine with Middle Eastern spices, the goal is to either complement or contrast the dish. Here are some types of wine to consider:

White Wines

Sauvignon Blanc:

  • Profile: Crisp, high acidity, often featuring herbal and citrus notes.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Works wonderfully with dishes featuring herbs like parsley and mint, such as tabbouleh or grilled vegetables.

Riesling:

  • Profile: Aromatic and often off-dry, with honeyed stone fruit and floral notes.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Its sweetness can balance spice, making it a perfect companion for dishes with cumin or cinnamon, such as chicken tagine.

Assyrtiko:

  • Profile: Bright acidity and mineral complexity.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Engaging with dishes like grilled fish seasoned with spices or salads dressed with sumac.

Red Wines

Syrah/Shiraz:

  • Profile: Bold, full-bodied with spicy, dark fruit flavours.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Enhances grilled meats like lamb kebabs or spiced stews that include warming spices.

Grenache:

  • Profile: Juicy, red berry flavours with a touch of spice.
  • Pairing Suggestions: A great match for dishes with tomato-based sauces, especially those featuring warm spices such as cinnamon and cardamom.

Rosé Wines

Dry Rosé:

  • Profile: Refreshing, with berry and floral notes, and a dry finish.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Pairs well with meze platters featuring dips like baba ghanoush and fresh salads, balancing the vibrancy of the dishes.

Sparkling Wines

Sparkling Wine:

  • Profile: High acidity with refreshing bubbles.
  • Pairing Suggestions: Excellent with spicy dishes and fried foods, such as falafel, where the acidity cuts through the richness.

Specific Dishes and Their Pairings

Mezze and Small Plates

  1. Hummus and Baba Ghanoush:

    • Pair with: A refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé to balance the creamy texture.

  2. Falafel:

    • Pair with: A sparkling wine to elevate the flavours while counterbalancing the fried nature of the dish.

  3. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas):

    • Pair with: A light-bodied white like Assyrtiko or a semi-dry Riesling to bring forth the dish’s herbal qualities.

Main Courses

  1. Lamb Kofta or Kebabs:

    • Pair with: A robust Syrah that complements the rich, spiced meat without overwhelming it.

  2. Chicken Tagine with Apricots and Almonds:

    • Pair with: An off-dry Riesling that harmonises with the sweet and savoury elements.

  3. Spiced Grilled Fish:

    • Pair with: A crisp Assyrtiko or a fruity Grenache that highlights the freshness of the fish without overshadowing it.

Desserts

  1. Baklava:

    • Pair with: A sweet dessert wine or sparkling wine that has a hint of sweetness to match the richness of this pastry.

  2. Rice Pudding (Roz Bel Laban):

    • Pair with: A late harvest Riesling to contrast the creamy texture and enhance its cinnamon and cardamom notes.

Conclusion

Pairing wine with Middle Eastern spices is an adventure in flavour balancing and enhancement. The diverse array of spices in this culinary tradition offers opportunities for both complementing and contrasting wine selections. Whether you reach for a bright Sauvignon Blanc, a robust Syrah, or a refreshing dry Rosé, understanding the characteristics of both your dish and your chosen wine will lead to delightful pairings. By exploring these combinations, you can transform your dining experience into a celebration of taste that celebrates the richness of Middle Eastern cuisine.

So the next time you’re enjoying a feast inspired by the colours and flavours of the Middle East, remember to consider the wonderful wines that can accompany these dishes, enhancing your meal and appreciating every bite and sip.