Saudi Arabian cuisine is full of rich flavors and unique dishes. From hearty meals to tasty snacks, there’s something for everyone. Here are 10 delicious Saudi Arabian dishes you have to try!
1. Kabsa
Kabsa is a must-try dish! It’s a flavorful rice dish cooked with a choice of meat, often chicken, lamb, or even camel. The rice is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and garnished with nuts and raisins, adding a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Kabsa is usually served on a large platter, making it perfect for sharing.
2. Mandhi
If smoky flavors are your thing, you’ll love Mandi. This rice dish is similar to Kabsa but has a distinct smoky taste because the meat is cooked in a traditional underground clay oven called a tandoor. The rice is also seasoned with spices, making each bite aromatic and delicious.
3. Jareesh
Jareesh is a comforting traditional dish made from crushed wheat and meat, slow-cooked together until they form a creamy, porridge-like consistency. It’s seasoned with spices, giving it a warm and hearty flavor. This dish is particularly popular at special gatherings and events.
4. Shawarma
Shawarma is a street food staple you can’t miss. Marinated meat, such as chicken or beef, is slowly roasted on a rotating spit and then thinly sliced. It’s typically wrapped in pita bread along with vegetables and sauces. It’s quick, tasty, and widely loved!
5. Mutabbaq
Mutabbaq is a crispy stuffed flatbread filled with a spiced mixture of either meat or vegetables. It’s pan-fried until golden and crunchy, making it an ideal snack or appetizer. The dish is loved by locals and expats alike for its rich flavors.
6. Foul Medames
This popular breakfast dish is made from fava beans that are slow-cooked with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. It’s usually served with warm bread (tamees) and makes a nutritious and filling start to the day. Its simple yet hearty flavors are perfect for mornings.
7. Samboosa
You might know them as samosas elsewhere, but in Saudi Arabia, they’re called Samboosa. These crispy, deep-fried pastries are filled with a spiced mixture of meat or vegetables. They are often served during Ramadan and make a great appetizer or snack.
8. Falafel
Falafel is a well-loved dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, blended with herbs and spices, shaped into balls, and deep-fried. It’s typically served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce, making it a vegetarian favorite.
9. Harees
Harees is a comforting dish, especially popular during Ramadan. It’s made by cooking ground wheat and meat together until the consistency becomes creamy and porridge-like. Harees is mildly flavored, focusing more on its soft and hearty texture.
10. Kunafa
No Saudi meal is complete without something sweet, and Kunafa is a perfect choice. It’s made from crispy, shredded pastry layered with sweet cheese or cream, soaked in syrup. This dessert is rich and satisfying, making it a favorite for those with a sweet tooth.
This list is just a starting point. Saudi Arabian cuisine offers a wealth of flavors and experiences waiting to be discovered. Each dish has its own story and is part of the country’s rich food traditions. So, enjoy trying these tasty foods and explore what Saudi Arabia has to offer!