Semsmiyeh and Fostoqiyeh (Sesame and Nut Brittle)

Semsmiyeh and fostoqiyeh are traditional crunchy brittle sweets well known across Lebanon and the Levant. Semsmiyeh is made from toasted sesame seeds bound with cooked sugar or syrup, while fostoqiyeh is the nut version, made the same way with nuts instead of sesame. Both set into thin, crisp bars or pieces that snap easily. They are commonly enjoyed as a small sweet snack, served with tea or coffee, offered to guests, or packed as a treat for school and work. At Dekenet Al Nes, a package-free grocery store in Baaqline in the Chouf, this confectionery is sold by the kilo, so you can take just the amount you want. Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers or bags to fill, helping cut down on single-use packaging and plastic waste.