This country is a mix of many cultures, but it proudly highlights its Arab roots through its food. The food scene in this country combines old flavors with new ideas. This guide will show you some of the best dishes to try, giving you a taste of what you will experience in this country. And, if some of these dishes make your mouth water, why not join hands with the best travel agency in Dubai, Next Holidays and book your flight?
Harees
This is a traditional dish that is very special to the locals, especially during their festivals. It’s made from wheat and meat. They add a bit of salt and cook it slowly to become a thick, porridge-like meal. Despite its simple ingredients, the long cooking time gives it a rich flavor. It’s often topped with ghee to make it even tastier.
Festive Occasions: Perfect for traditional celebrations.
Side Dish: Can be served with other cultural dishes.
Al Machboos
This dish, also called Kabsa in some places, is a tasty rice dish popular in traditional food. It uses long-grain rice, meat like chicken, or fish, and spices such as cloves, and black lime. The meat is cooked until it’s soft, and the rice soaks up all the rich flavors, making a delicious and fragrant meal.
Main Course: Great for a filling lunch or dinner.
Side Dishes: Usually served with yogurt or salad.
Shawarma
This can be said to be a hidden treasure and has gotten love from all around the globe In the UAE, you can find it almost everywhere as a popular street food. This is made by storing thin slices of meat in a cone shape and roasting it properly. The cooked meat is then shaved off and wrapped in flatbread with garlic sauce, vegetables, and more.
Quick Bite: Perfect for a fast lunch or dinner.
Street Food Delight: Best savored from local vendors for a genuine taste.
Manakish
This is a traditional dish that is similar to pizza. It’s bread with toppings like cheese, or meat. It is baked until it gets a little flaky on the outside and is soft on the inside. This is known to be a favorite breakfast food, providing a tasty start to the day.
Ways to Enjoy this dish
Morning Meal: Usually eaten for breakfast or brunch.
Toppings: Experiment with different toppings to discover new flavors.
Falafel
This dish is basically a tasty deep-fried ball mixed with spices. It’s a popular no-meat dish in the country, usually served in pita bread or a flatbread wrap with fresh vegetables and other fillings. The tangyness on the outside and the flavor on the inside make the dish a delicious and healthy choice.
Vegetarian Treat: Perfect for vegetarians and vegans.
Street Food: Get the best flavor from local street vendors.
Stuffed Vine Leaves
Introducing you to one of the most tasty yet healthy dishes on the list, The leaves are filled with a mix of rice and sometimes meat. They are rolled up and cooked until they are soft. This dish is usually served after the main course and is loved for its tangy taste.
Platter: Great as part of a group of starters.
Light Meal: This can be eaten by itself as a go-to food.
Luqaimat
These are delicious sweets that are loved in traditional cuisine. They are small, golden treats made from flour and saffron dough. Then, it is deep-fried to be crunchy on the outside and soft inside. They are usually covered in honey and topped with seeds. It is especially popular during festivals and other celebrations.
Sweet Snack: Great for satisfying a craving.
Festive Delight: Often enjoyed during festivals.
Balaleet
This is a special dish that mixes both sweet and salty flavors. It has sweet noodles flavored with saffron, and rose water, topped with a salty omelet. This mix gives it a surprising and tasty flavor. People often eat this dish for breakfast or as a dessert.
Breakfast: A traditional morning meal.
Dessert: Also great as a sweet treat after a meal.
Kebabs
This is a common and beloved dish in Arab cuisine, especially in the UAE. You can find this dish in many types. You will for sure find this dish at every family gathering. The meat is made with different spices, giving it a delicious flavor. There are some great Luxury Restaurants in Dubai where you can try this dish.
Barbecue: Great for grilling outside.
Main Course: Serve with rice, bread, or salad.
Arabic Coffee
You can’t talk about this cuisine without mentioning this coffee. This traditional drink is made with lightly roasted coffee beans. It’s often served with dates and is a big part of the custom. Making and serving this is a key tradition in the country’s culture.
Hospitality: Served to guests as a welcome gesture.
Cultural Experience: Enjoy social gatherings and cultural events.
Brace Yourself to try the Most Unique Cuisine
The UAE has a wide variety of delicious food, reflecting its mixed culture. Exploring these flavors is a must for any food lover. Whoever you are, a citizen or a visitor, be sure to try these dishes to truly enjoy the cuisine.