12 Lebanese Foods with Protein to Know

Lebanese cooking includes many foods with protein, from lentils and chickpeas to chicken, fish and yogurt. The twelve examples below can help you read a menu. They are not ranked by protein content, and a dish name does not tell you the amount per serving.

1–3: Lentils, chickpeas and fava beans

Mujadara combines lentils with rice or bulgur. Hummus is made with chickpeas and tahini. Foul uses fava beans, often served with vegetables and bread. These are familiar ways to include legumes in a meal; recipes and portions vary.

4–6: Labneh, laban and eggs

Labneh, plain yogurt or laban, and eggs all contain protein. They are common at breakfast or alongside other dishes. Check the serving size and product information if you need an exact amount. Dairy dishes are not suitable for everyone, so check ingredients if needed.

7–9: Chicken, kafta and fish

Moghrabieh with chicken, kafta and fish with rice bring different protein sources to the table. The amount of chicken, meat or fish matters more than the size of the whole plate. Rice, sauce and vegetables also contribute to the meal’s weight.

10–12: Shish barak, meat-stuffed vine leaves and freekeh with meat

Shish barak combines meat dumplings with yogurt sauce. Waraa enab bil lahme includes a rice-and-meat filling. Freekeh with meat combines grain with a meat portion. These mixed dishes show why accurate nutrition information needs the whole recipe and a measured serving.

Choosing from the Mahabati menu

Check our published menu for the dishes available on your dates. Standard plans do not guarantee protein targets. If you track closely, read our guide to protein and meal plans and ask the kitchen what portion information is available before ordering.

Chef MahabaFounder, Mahabati Catering

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