The word mezze stems from the Arabic term `tamazzaza`
- a single word that broadly embraces the idea of enjoying small portions of food & taking the time to indulge one`s tastebuds, eyes & nose by exposing them to a wide range of aromas & flavours. A complete mezze table is formed when many of these warm & cold dishes are presented together, as a meal in itself. The mezzanic culture originated in the Ottoman Empire & can be found in the whole of the Levantian Mediterranean: from Greece & Cyprus to Turkey (Hatay Province), Palestine, Jordan, Syria & Lebanon. But Lebanon has really developed & is famous for its richest, most extensive & sophisticated mezzanine culture. In addition to these delicious recipes, Souk also delves into the personal stories & reminiscences about this food tradition, & the families & friends the authors meet along the way. Eating mezze is a social event, wrapped in warmth & coziness, & spiced with waves of laughter & noisy chatter, which the book highlights.