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What are some traditional Saudi Arabian dishes (Food, Dessert or Sweets and Coffee) I should try while visiting Riyadh?

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    • What are some traditional Saudi Arabian dishes (Food, Dessert or Sweets and Coffee) I should try while visiting Riyadh?

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    Shad Siddiqui

    Answered On : 13, May 2023

    Riyadh, the capital city of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is known for its rich cultural heritage evident in its culinary delights.

    When in Riyadh, the city amazes you with its display of traditional cuisine characterized by the use of meat, rice, bread, and aromatic spices.  

    Other than meat and rice dishes, Riyadh is also home to traditional sweets that everyone should not miss.

    Tourists visiting Riyadh are sure to be treated to a gastronomic experience like no other.

     

    Najd Village Restaurant

     

    So, what are the traditional Saudi Arabian dishes to try while in Riyadh?

    Given the Kingdom’s rich tradition, it is expected to choose from a variety of traditional desserts, coffee, and food. If you are in Riyadh or planning to visit, here are some of the suggested dishes to try :

     

    Arabic Coffee (Qahwa)

     

    Arabic coffee is deeply rooted in the Arabic culture and tradition. It is prominent in Arabian holidays and special occasions. Also, it is a way of showing Arabian hospitality, served when guests arrived at home.

    Arabic coffee or Qahwa is typically served in small cups without handles and is usually accompanied by dates, tahini, and other desserts.

     

    Arabic Coffee or qahwa

     

    Kabsa

     

    Kabsa is an Arabian rice dish spiced with aromatic spices like cardamom, saffron, allspice, and cinnamon. Commonly, Kabsa is served with chicken or lamb.

     

    spread of atchaars around a lamb Kabsa, a famous Saudi traditional dish

     

    Mabshoor

     

    Here’s another traditional Saudi Arabian food that is a must-try when eating savory dishes like curries and stews. Mabshoor is bread made of flour, yeast, and water.

     

    Kunafa

     

    Another popular traditional dessert tourists should not miss when in Riyadh is Kunafa - crunchy, gooey, and cheesy. Kunafa is a buttery dessert made with a layered pastry stuffed with thickened cream or cheese. Kunafa is typically served during Ramadan along with other classic desserts like Loqiamt and Warbat.

     

    Shawarma

     

    Who does not like Shawarma? Shawarma is popular in Middle Eastern countries including Saudi Arabia. But, Saudi serves a type of Shawarma that you cannot find somewhere else, goat shawarma. Other than the classic shawarma served with pita bread and lavish, you can find shawarmas in Saudi served in baguettes and hot dog buns.

     

    Dates

     

    A trip to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will never be complete without trying its different varieties of dates. Dates are important in Saudi Arabia because of its abundance and religious significance. When visiting homes or offices, guests are welcomed with dates and Arabic coffee.

     

    bowl of dates in Saudi Arabia

     

    Halwa

     

    Halwa or Halva is a sweet treat made from a mixture of flour, butter, saffron, milk, rose water, liquid oil, milk, sweetened sugar, and cocoa powder. Halva means sweet in English and is a simple pudding recipe served during special occasions and religious holidays.

    Saudi Arabia’s cuisine is influenced by different religions and cultures making its food and desserts unique, flavorful, and aromatic.

     

    enjoying a meal

     

    From meat to rice dishes to sweets, Saudi Arabia food is comforting and definitely worth trying. On your next holiday, make sure to refer to these suggestions and see what makes Saudi Arabia cuisine unique and flavorful.

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