Fresh, healthy, wholesome, rich and aromatic are just some of the words used to describe Middle Eastern food. From hummus, Balaleet and falafel to shawarma, Umm Ali, pita bread, Harissa and Kabsa, this cuisine incorporates the heavy use of olive oil and a wide variety of pungent spices.
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Middle Eastern food is a delicious mix of cultures from around the Mediterranean, Red, Arabian and Caspian Seas. It includes, but isn’t limited to, Arab, Moroccan, Syrian, Israeli and Turkish cuisines. Religion and local ingredients have played a major role in the way food is prepared and consumed. Staples include dates, fava beans, chickpeas and barley.
While many countries in the Middle East share ingredients, dishes and cooking styles, their names and flavours can differ. Emirati and Qatari cuisine are relatively similar, however Qatari food is largely influenced by Iranian and Indian cuisine.
Rent a car in Doha and let’s take a gastronomic journey through some of the most popular dishes in Qatar.
Majboos
Also known as Kabsa, Majboos is the national dish in Qatar. It consists of meat, rice and vegetables. There are many different ways that Majboos can be made but traditionally it’s mixing rice, nuts, raisins and spices with mutton, fish or chicken.
Balaleet
Made with a combination of eggs, sugar, saffron and vermicelli rice noodles, this dish is mostly eaten during Eid al Fitr which comes directly after the holy month of Ramadan.
Saloona
This is a soup-like dish that generally includes spicy meat with vegetables and lots of tomatoes. It is enjoyed with or without rice and can also be eaten with bread.
Umm Ali
Originating from Egypt, this sweet dish is very popular in Qatar. This delicious dessert is bread-based with milk and cinnamon. Other ingredients that can be added are sugar and nuts. It’s a must-try.
Luqaimat
Another sweet dish is Luqaimat. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these little doughnut-type ball are deep fried and dipped in sweet syrup that’s flavoured with saffron and hail (cardamom). To add even more rich flavours, sesame seeds are often sprinkled on top.
Harees (Harissa)
Popular during celebrations as well as the holy month of Ramadan, Harees is made with wheat and a combination or either chicken or meat. It is then all stirred and beaten into a porridge-type consistency. Butter, cinnamon, sugar and cardamom are added for a more enhanced flavour.
Thareed (Tharid)
Often referred to as Arabic lasagne, Thareed is a mouth-watering mix of potatoes, beans and meat in a spicy tomato sauce. It is served over a thin, crispy bread called regag.
There are many other dishes to try while you’re visiting. Book your car in Qatarfrom United Car Rentals and enjoy the freedom of being able to visit the many diverse restaurants and cafés on offer.
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References:
http://www.hummuselite.com/middle-eastern-cuisine.php
https://www.familysearch.org/en/blog/middle-eastern-food-recipes-etiquette
https://www.thespruceeats.com/popular-middle-eastern-foods-2355798
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