Salep is a starch-based food made from orchid tubers. It is a traditional dish in the Middle East, particularly in Turkey and Iran. Salep is usually served as a side dish or as part of a mezze platter. It is made by boiling orchid tubers until they become soft and then mashing them into a paste. The paste is then mixed with spices and herbs, such as garlic, cumin, and parsley, and formed into small balls. The balls are then fried until golden brown and served hot.