One of the exciting things to look forward to when travelling to a new country is checking out local food and tasting new cuisine. It is interesting to experience what type of food people eat in different parts of the world.
So before you grab your bags, your Saudi Arabia travel insurance papers, and your passport duly stamped with the Saudi Arabia Visa and head to the airport, here’s a bit about the food culture you will find there.
Introduction to Saudi Arabian Cuisine
Saudi Arabian cuisine varies from province to province, although some dishes are found across the Kingdom. A typical Saudi meal is a blend of wheat, rice, milk, chicken or lamb, dates, yoghurt, and potatoes, delicately flavoured with rich aromatic spices.
Take a look at some of the traditional Saudi dishes that are definitely worth a try when you’re visiting Saudi Arabia.
Popular Traditional Dishes in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabian cuisine is characterised by its aromatic spices, hearty ingredients, and traditional cooking methods. Eating together- with family and communal dining are important aspects of the food culture of Saudi Arabia. Here are some dishes you cannot miss on a tour of this country.
Traditional Breakfast in Saudi Arabia
Breakfast in Saudi Arabia is hearty, featuring dishes that provide energy for the whole day. Some traditional food items include:
-
Foul Medames:
A Savoury dish made from cooked fava beans seasoned with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It is typically enjoyed with bread and is a staple in many households.
-
Fatayer:
Flaky pastries filled with ingredients such as spinach, meat, or cheese. These are popular for their convenience and flavour, making them a common choice for breakfast.
-
Shakshouka:
A flavourful dish consisting of eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce, often enhanced with cumin and paprika. It is commonly served with pita bread for dipping.
Main Dishes in Saudi Arabian Cuisine
The main courses in Saudi cuisine are rich and aromatic, often centered around meat and rice. Notable dishes include:
-
Mandi:
Originating from Yemen but widely popular in Saudi Arabia, Mandi consists of meat (commonly lamb or chicken) cooked with rice and a mixture of spices. The meat is traditionally prepared in a tandoor, giving it a distinct flavour.
-
Kabsa :
This traditional dish is a wholesome combination of rice mixed with meat, vegetables, and potatoes, flavoured with spices like black pepper, cloves, cardamom, saffron, black lime, bay leaves, and nutmeg. Considered as the national dish of Saudi Arabia, Kabsa is an intrinsic part of the region’s culinary heritage. This surely makes it a must-try Saudi specialty!
-
Saleeg:
Saleeg is a delicate white rice-based dish cooked with broth and milk. It is usually served with a chili tomato sauce called ‘duggus’ along with pickled lemons. Saleeg is had as a winter comfort dish. While you will find many variations, it originally belonged to the Western Province of Hejaz.
Saudi Arabian Street Food
Street food in Saudi Arabia offers a variety of quick bites that are both satisfying and reflective of the country's culinary traditions. Popular street foods include:
-
Mutabbaq:
The Arabic name ‘Mutabbaq’ literally means folded. And that is exactly what this street food is – a folded, fried pancake stuffed with a lightly spiced mixture of minced meat, eggs, tomatoes, and onions. It looks something like a fluffy omelet folded and cut into squares. You will find this dish almost everywhere you go in Saudi Arabia. It is affordable, quick, and filling when you’re on the go.
-
Sambusak:
Another popular street food is sambusak or ‘samboosa’. This deep-fried snack will immediately remind you of our Indian favourite, the samosa! In Saudi, it is made with a variety of fillings such as minced meat, cheese and vegetables. If your taste buds are not feeling very adventurous towards foreign dishes, this is the perfect local snack to try out.
-
Falafel:
You may have tasted Falafel in India as this popular Arab street food is now available at many Middle-Eastern cafes and fast-food joints. But nothing like savouring the authentic Falafel right in Saudi Arabia. This deep-fried round snack is made of fava beans or ground chickpeas and served with pickled veggies. A great evening bite for the hungry tourist!
Traditional Desserts and Sweets in Saudi Arabia
Desserts in Saudi Arabia are rich and often have ingredients like dates, nuts, and aromatic spices. Some traditional sweets include:
-
Ma’amoul:
Delicate pastries filled with dates, pistachios, or walnuts. They are commonly enjoyed during family gatherings on traditional Saudi holidays and festivals.
-
Luqaimat:
Small, deep-fried dough balls soaked in sweet syrup, often flavoured with saffron or rose water. These are a popular dish during the celebrations of Ramadan.
-
Kunafa:
A dessert made with shredded phyllo dough layered with a creamy cheese filling, soaked in sweet syrup, and typically topped with pistachios. This is a loved sweet dish all over the Middle East.
-
Hainini:
Hainini is a delicious melt-in-the-mouth dessert made with world-famous Arabian dates. It is a preparation of flour, butter, and dates, mildly spiced with cardamom and saffron. Enjoy this sweet treat with a steaming cup of Arabic coffee. This is one combination you don’t want to miss during your food tour of Saudi Arabia.
Traditional Beverages in Saudi Arabia
Beverages are an important part of hospitality in Saudi culture, served with meals or separately during formal and casual gatherings. Traditional drinks include:
-
Arabic Coffee (Qahwa):
A lightly roasted coffee brewed with cardamom, often served without sugar and accompanied by dates. It is a symbol of hospitality and is integral to social rituals.
-
Tea (Shai):
Black tea, sometimes infused with mint or spices, is commonly consumed throughout the day and offered to guests as a sign of welcome.
Where to Try Traditional Food in Saudi Arabia
To experience authentic Saudi cuisine, you can visit the local restaurants and traditional markets and participate in cultural festivals where dishes from all over the country are served in one place. Cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam offer various dining options in which you can taste the country's food heritage. Interacting with the locals and finding lesser-known regional specialties can also be a great way to truly appreciate the rich food culture of Saudi Arabia.
FAQs
Q: What is the national dish of Saudi Arabia?
A: Kabsa is widely regarded as the national dish, featuring spiced rice and meat.
Q: Are there vegetarian options in Saudi cuisine?
A: Yes, dishes like falafel, hummus, and various vegetable stews are popular vegetarian options.
Q: Is it common to eat with hands in Saudi Arabia?
A: Yes, traditionally, meals are enjoyed using the right hand, especially during communal dining.
Q: What is a typical Saudi dessert?
A: Ma’amoul, a pastry filled with dates or nuts, is a traditional and popular dessert.
Q: How important are dates in Saudi cuisine?
A: Dates are a staple in Saudi Arabia, often consumed daily and used in various dishes and desserts.
Conclusion
Whether you are a vegetarian or non-vegetarian, Saudi Arabia has a lot of delectable food options to offer tourists that will also fit easily into any budget. And while you calculate the expenses of a trip to Saudi, do not forget to buy travel insurance that will protect you in case of any unfortunate loss during your overseas travel. Go for international travel insurance that covers all your needs during a trip abroad, and get ready to indulge yourself in the flavourful culture of Saudi Arabia.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.