Traditional ethnic foods : examples of Arab's response to the harsh environment of the levant and Iraq : a review article

الملخص EN

Throughout history, Arab people of the Levant and Iraq managed to produce safe, wholesome and nutritious foods which managed to survive modern- day competition in local and international markets.

Securing food supplies during the days of scarcity and seasonal shortages of agricultural production was achieved by application of such preservation methods as moisture control, brining, heat treatment, sun drying and exclusion of oxygen, all of which are testimonials of man's response to the rather harsh environmental conditions of the region.

Examples of such preserved foods as cereal products, meats, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, sweets and confectionery are presented in this review.