This article is an attempt to create new ways for students to appreciate the complexities and diversity of the Middle East's foodways and thus of their people and societies. It takes a broad view of the region that is historically inclusive, stretching from Morocco and al-Andalus (Spain) in the west to Iran in the east and from modern-day Turkey in the north to Yemen in the south. Food--its components, production, preparation, and consumption--can be a way to explore the geography, history, and even the politics of the Middle East. A set of six themes or suggested directions for teachers to explore with students are presented. Some of the explorations and dishes described will work better with younger or older students, although all can be adapted. This is a unit that explores food, and it includes references to specific dishes and recipes for students to make. Given the diverse range of what is and is not allowed in different schools and districts, a single approach will not work in all circumstances. The current necessity of online education may actually open possibilities for students to explore cooking some of these dishes themselves at home and sharing the results with their families in the first instance and with their classes via video on YouTube, images on Instagram, classroom cookbooks with images and cultural information incorporated along with recipes.