Kashka From Baghdad Trivia Quiz

Answer: Tabbouleh

The freshness of mint makes this a very refreshing appetizer. The name of the dish is taken from the Arabic word, taabil, which means "seasoning". Originally from Syria and Lebanon, the dish has reached the Western world, with couscous often replacing bulgur wheat as the main ingredient.

Pakora, Samosa and Chaat are all appetizers from India.

Answer: Sesame seed

Tahini is a paste similar to peanut butter but using sesame seeds instead of peanuts. The seeds are steeped in hot water before being crushed to separate the kernels from the bran. The kernels are then ground down to make an oily paste.

Answer: Falafel

This savoury dish originated in Egypt before it became a staple part of the diet in other Middle Eastern countries. Normally eaten as a snack or in a flatbread pocket, these spicy balls are a favourite among vegetarians.

Answer: Fish

Alternatively called masguf, this traditional dish was made by shepherds working along the River Tigris before becoming popular elsewhere. The cleaned fish, normally carp, is marinated in olive oil, rock salt, tamarind and turmeric before being skewered and cooked over an open fire.

Answer: Smallpox

The finished dish, which uses both lentils and rice in the recipe, resembles pockmarks and this is why the English translation means "smallpox". Mujaddara is sometimes flavoured with cumin, coriander, or mint, then yoghurt is added as a garnish.

Answer: Shawarma

Gyro from Greece, taco from Mexico and doner kebab from Turkey all resemble the Iraqi shawarma except for the spices used and the difference in vegetables served. Slices of cooked meat, usually lamb or chicken, are placed in a flat bread pocket then filled with tomatoes, cucumber, garlic sauce, pickles, and even French fries.

Answer: Pita

Used as a wrapping for a sandwich or to dip up sauce juices, pita is simply made from wheat flour, yeast, warm water and a little salt and sugar. The small rounds of dough puff up when they are baked in a very hot brick oven. The cooked pita, or pitta, is cut open to make pockets for meat and vegetables.

Answer: Honey and nuts

Layers of filo, or phillo, pastry are placed in a large tin, separated by melted butter. Each layer is filled with chopped nuts, usually pistachio or walnuts. The dough is then scored with a knife into shaped pieces, and honey drizzled over the top until it soaks right through. The tin is then placed in the oven and baked.

Answer: Dates

Kleicha is made using a buttery dough, usually filled with date paste, although coconut is used as an alternative. Cardamom or rose water is sometimes included to give additional flavouring. Large batches are made during the Eid celebrations, normally served with a cup of tea with plenty to spare for impromptu guests.

Answer: Aniseed liquor

Arak (or araq) is an alcoholic aperitif with an aniseed flavour, similar to ouzo, Pernod and sambuca. The drink is served with water and ice, giving the refreshing drink a cloudy appearance. The most popular brands are Asriyah and Tayyara.