main course Recipes
223 delicious main course recipes from around the world
Δ°mam BayΔ±ldΔ± (The Imam Fainted)
A classic Turkish dish of eggplants stuffed with a savory mixture of onions, tomatoes, and garlic, then slow-braised in abundant olive oil until meltingly tender. The name, 'The Imam Fainted,' is said to refer to the dish's rich flavor, the amount of olive oil used, or perhaps its perceived expense.
Jeyuk Bokkeum (Korean Spicy Pork Stir-Fry)
A beloved Korean dish featuring thinly sliced pork shoulder coated in a vibrant, spicy, and savory gochujang-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful addition to a Korean feast.
Jiao Yan You Yu (Salt and Pepper Squid)
A classic Hong Kong seafood restaurant favorite, this Jiao Yan You Yu features tender squid rings coated in a light, crispy batter and tossed with a fragrant mix of salt, pepper, garlic, chilies, and scallions.
Joojeh Kabab (Persian Saffron Chicken Kebabs)
Tender and juicy Persian chicken kebabs, marinated in a vibrant blend of saffron, lemon, and yogurt, then grilled to perfection. A quintessential summer favorite, often served with fluffy rice and grilled tomatoes.
Kadai Paneer
A popular North Indian dish featuring paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and bell peppers stir-fried in a rich, spicy tomato-based gravy, traditionally cooked in a kadai (Indian wok). This recipe offers a restaurant-style flavor with a delightful blend of spices.
Kafta Meshwi (Lebanese Grilled Kafta)
Kafta Meshwi is a quintessential Lebanese dish featuring seasoned ground meat molded onto flat skewers and grilled to perfection. It's a staple at any Middle Eastern barbecue, offering a flavorful and satisfying experience.
KarnΔ±yarΔ±k (Belly Split Open)
A classic Turkish dish featuring tender, fried eggplants that are "split open" and generously filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. It's a hearty and flavorful main course.
Kebbeh bil Sanieh (Lebanese Baked Kibbeh Tray)
A classic Lebanese comfort food, Kebbeh bil Sanieh features a flavorful mixture of bulgur wheat and ground lamb forming a savory crust, encasing a rich filling of spiced meat and toasted pine nuts. This baked dish is a traditional centerpiece for family gatherings, especially on Sundays.
Khoresh-e Khalal Bademjan (Persian Almond Eggplant Stew)
A rich and aromatic Persian stew featuring tender lamb, sweet-tart notes from grape molasses, and the delightful crunch of slivered almonds and fried eggplant. This dish is a classic comfort food, perfect for special occasions or a flavorful weeknight meal.
KΓΆfte (Turkish Grilled Meatballs)
Authentic Turkish kΓΆfte, featuring a flavorful blend of ground beef and lamb, seasoned with aromatic spices and fresh herbs. These meatballs are traditionally grilled over charcoal, achieving a perfect char and juicy interior. Serve with warm pita bread, sliced onions, and fresh tomatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
Experience impossibly crispy Korean fried chicken, achieved through a double-frying technique. The chicken is coated in a light, crunchy batter and then tossed in a sweet, spicy, and savory gochujang glaze. This recipe ensures the coating stays delightfully crisp even after saucing.
Korean Mandu (Dumplings)
Authentic Korean dumplings filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, firm tofu, crisp vegetables, and chewy glass noodles. These versatile dumplings can be steamed to a tender perfection, boiled, or pan-fried for a delightful crispy exterior. A beloved dish often enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings.
Kuku Bademjan (Persian Eggplant Frittata)
A flavorful and versatile Persian frittata made with roasted eggplant, eggs, and aromatic spices. Kuku Bademjan is delicious served hot or at room temperature, making it perfect for a light meal, appetizer, or picnic.
Lahm bi Ajeen (Lebanese Meat Pies)
Lahm bi Ajeen are delicious, thin Lebanese meat pies featuring a spiced lamb topping on a crisp, baked dough base. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving is essential for brightness.
Lahm Meshwi (Lebanese Grilled Lamb Skewers)
Tender, marinated lamb cubes grilled to perfection on skewers, a quintessential Lebanese BBQ favorite.
Lahmacun (Turkish Pizza)
Lahmacun, often called 'Turkish pizza', is a delightfully crispy, paper-thin flatbread generously topped with a spiced mixture of minced lamb, onions, tomatoes, and peppers. It's traditionally rolled up with fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of sumac before enjoying.
Lebanese Kafta Skewers
Flavorful Lebanese spiced meat skewers made with ground lamb, fresh parsley, and onion, grilled to juicy perfection. Traditionally served in pita bread with fresh vegetables.
Lok Lok (Malaysian Skewered Street Food)
Lok Lok is a popular Malaysian street food where various ingredients are skewered and then cooked by boiling in a flavorful broth or deep-frying. It's a highly customizable and interactive dining experience, perfect for sharing.
Malaysian Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with a rich, savory peanut sauce. A beloved Malaysian street food classic.
Mapo Doufu (Sichuan Style)
A classic Sichuan dish featuring silken tofu in a fiery, intensely savory, and numbing sauce, traditionally made with minced pork. This recipe aims for an authentic 'ma la' (numbing and spicy) experience.
Maqluba (Upside-Down Rice)
A dramatic and flavorful Lebanese upside-down rice dish, featuring layers of spiced meat, tender fried vegetables, and aromatic rice, all flipped onto a platter for a stunning presentation. The name 'Maqluba' literally means 'upside-down' in Arabic.
Matar Paneer
A classic Punjabi dish featuring tender green peas and cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-cream gravy. This restaurant-style curry is aromatic and satisfying.
Methi Chicken (Fenugreek Chicken Curry)
Aromatic and flavorful Indian curry featuring tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich gravy infused with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) and a touch of cream. The subtle bitterness of fenugreek is beautifully balanced by the creamy texture and spices, creating a unique and satisfying dish.
Mì Xà o Giòn (Vietnamese Crispy Noodles)
A classic Vietnamese dish featuring golden, deep-fried egg noodles providing a delightful crunch, topped with a savory stir-fry of mixed seafood and vibrant vegetables in a rich oyster sauce. Best enjoyed immediately to savor the contrasting textures.