Arabesque : Modern Middle Eastern Food

Arabesque is an A-to-Z of ingredients and spices. Some of these are as familiar to us as lemon and rice, while others such as pomegranates, orange-blossom water and sumac, are less well-known.

In the introduction, the Maloufs share their knowledge of each ingredient's history and offer tips on how to select the best and how each should be prepared and cooked.

The collection of 170 recipes includes such favourites as Seven-Vegetable Couscous with Onion Jam and Green Harissa Broth, Salmon Kibbeh Nayeh with Saffron Yoghurt Cheese.

The book also lists quick and easy dishes like Watercress Tabouleh, and dinner party ideas like Cardamom Honey-Glazed Roast Duck and Turkish Coffee Ice-cream.