Rice dishes are pretty much an essential accompaniment to any Indian meal, and this attractive pilaf loaded with a variety of vegetables steps things up a few notches. It's also a good way to use up any extra vegetables you may have on hand. The method of making a pilaf involves sautéing aromatic seeds and onions, followed by the rice for a few minutes, before adding the stock or water, and then, in this case, the vegetables. Take care not to stir the rice while cooking, only simmering it at a low temperature until the liquid is absorbed to make sure the tender grains don't break apart and your final product is a nice fluffy rice dish.

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Sambusas are perhaps best described to those familiar with Indian cusine as like samosas, without the addition of potatoes and peas. Somalian in origin, these little appetizer parcels are wrapped in thin pastry, sometimes with rice paper, or spring roll wrappers, and are commonly filled with ground beef, vegetables, and spices. Usually fried, I offer up a baked vegetarian version stuffed with lentils, vegetables, and mushrooms cooked in a delightful red gravy featuring an array of hot spices, notably the classic Ethiopian berbere spice blend. I've used wonton wrappers instead of opting for my own pastry to speed up the preparation time. Though these are commonly served as appetizers, they are quite filling, so depending on what else you serve, you might want to consider them as a substantial side.

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One can never have enough recipes for condiments as they are an easy way to enhance and add flair to any number of foods. As I am a big fan of savory appeitzers, condiments are pretty much essential in my kitchen—and for me, that usually means a spicy condiment.

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There are never enough recipes for potatoes, and this Lebanese side dish—batata harra, which translates to spicy potatoes—is quick and easy to make and quite simply delicious. Though commonly pan-fried, for a slightly healthier and cleaner alternative, I've roasted them in the oven. Besides, roasted potatoes are one of life's simple pleasures. The warming heat in these potatoes is not overwhelming, and with a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice for a citrusy tempering and the complement of the spices and herbs, they make for a hearty side to serve with your favorite middle eastern mains.

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