Possibly the most traditional Palestinian dish is called Maqlobe, or "Upside Down". It derives its name from being slow cooked in a big pot that is ceremoniously turned upside down onto a plate before serving it.
Once served, on top you find pieces of chicken and aubergine (or other vegetables) sitting on perfectly steamed rice. On the side we had tomato and cucumber salad, and yoghurt. I prefer the variety with aubergine to the dishes with cauliflower.
I have heard a lot about this dish and had been looking forward to it for a long time - and it definitely didn't disappoint. The main spice used in this dish is nutmeg, and although it is not an unusual spice, I don't think I've ever eaten anything which was very specifically nutmet flavoured. It was so delicious and not salty either.
I'm not usually a slow eater, but with all the excitement about meeting the family, I finished last. This seems like a good tactic to reduce portion sizes rather than having to politely refuse seconds.
