Topic:

Arabic for Food:

Most of the modern dishes in Saudi Arabian cuisine may be traced back to other nations, such as Egypt and Yemen. But for authentic Saudi Arabian foods from the past, not everyone really knows much about them.

On the other hand, Saudi Arabian cuisine has become a synthesis of various influences. Saudi Arabian recipes could range from flavorful meat-based meals to filling rice dishes and delightful desserts. So if you’re ready for a mesmerizing food journey, let’s get started.

1. Shawarma – Arabic Chicken Sandwich

Not only is Shawarma a popular Arabic meat dish, but it’s also one of the world’s most famous street foods. To make Shawarma, the meat (either chicken, lamb, or mutton) is cut into thin slices, marinated, skewered in a cone shape, then finally roasted on a spit or rotisserie.

This flavorful dish was created in the 18th century in Turkey. It was first introduced in Greece, where it was given the name gyros (meaning “turn” in Greek). Shawarma became its official name when it expanded throughout the Middle East. Making Shawarma at home might be challenging since a rotating spit is not common in a typical household. However, if you’re really craving it, you can use a panini grill to recapture the true essence of this dish.

2. Shakshuka – poached eggs in the sauce:

Eggs have been a mainstay of Saudi Arabian cuisine since time immemorial. This is completely understandable because eggs are convenient, cheap, and tasty. Plus, they also have huge nutritional benefits.

Because of this, there are many egg-based breakfasts in this country. One of the most popular is Shakshuka. This Saudi Arabian breakfast recipe consists of an egg poached in a tomato sauce with onions, olive oil, paprika, and cumin.

According to an American cookbook author, Shakshouka was invented after the arrival of tomatoes in Ottoman North Africa in the mid-16th century. This addictive breakfast option is also gluten-free, which is great news for visitors with celiac disease.

3. Falafel – Fried balls:

The term “falafel” is used to describe a wrapped sandwich, which explains why these fried balls are commonly served in a pita or flatbread.

Despite its controversial origin history, you can easily find this delicious dish on many streets in Saudi Arabia. Formed in the shape of a ball with ingredients such as beans or chickpeas, falafel will be a perfect alternative to meaty foods.

4. Kayak – bread rings:

Bread is a fundamental aspect of Middle Eastern cuisine, as people like to dip their bread in various spices. The word Kayak alone can refer to many different types of bread and biscuits throughout the Arab world.

The most popular variation of Ka’aku is bread rings. This yummy is a soft ring-shaped bread with sesame seeds sprinkled on the outside. Kayak is usually served as a sandwich or side dish for breakfast. Sometimes people eat it with Falafel to enhance its taste even more.

If you get a chance to visit Saudi Arabia, you may spot street vendors carrying wooden trays with Ka’ak on their heads.

5. Martabak – Saudi Arabian pancakes:

Murtabak is a famous fried bread or stuffed pancake in Saudi Arabia and many other countries around the Arabian Peninsula and Southeast Asia. This famous street food was brought to Southeast Asia by Tamil Muslim traders.

The name and ingredients may vary depending on where you are. Murtabak can be filled with eggs, cheese, curry and various herbs such as mint and coriander to help keep the pancakes fresh. There are no restrictions when it comes to Martabak fillings.

Martabak also has a sweet variation called martabak manis. These sweet pancakes use vanilla extract as the essence and contain various fillings such as chocolate sprinkles, crushed peanuts, or sugar.

6. Hummus – chickpea dip with olive oil:

Hummus is a famous Saudi delicacy that every visitor should try. Middle Eastern cuisine, it is usually served as a dip with pita bread. In the West, it is commonly served as a snack or appetizer and eaten with crackers.

Hummus contains a rich source of protein from chickpeas. This ingredient also pairs well with typical hummus garnishes such as olive oil, lemon juice, and sesame seeds.

The homemade version is really easy to prepare, so don’t waste your money on the unhealthy version from the store.