Explore the unique world of Arabian cuisine, where bold flavors and exotic spices come together to create a sensory experience unlike any other. While you may be familiar with popular global cuisines like Italian, Indian, or Chinese, Arabian food offers a distinct culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
From classic dishes like Kibbeh, Dolmas, and Fatayer to modern favorites like Falafel, Shawarma, and Kabsa, the Arab region has a treasure trove of flavors to discover. But be sure to try #33 – it’s a game-changer that will forever alter your perception of Arabian food.
Pita Bread
Pita bread is a culinary delight that effortlessly captures the senses. Its cloud-like texture and alluring aroma create a captivating experience as soon as it emerges from the oven. The warm, fluffy pita, fresh from the heat, invites you to tear into its softness and fill it with an array of delectable ingredients – think creamy hummus, tangy labneh, hearty stews, or savory dips.
Labneh
Labneh has quickly become a modern culinary sensation. This creamy and slightly tangy cheese can be enjoyed in various ways. For instance, serve it with crackers for a satisfying snack, or pair it with fresh vegetables as an appetizer before dinner. You can also use Labneh as a unique dessert option after a meal, its subtle flavor profile making it an excellent match for sweet treats.
Shorbet Adas (Arabic Lentil Soup)
Shorbet Adas, the quintessential Arabic lentil soup, boasts a rich and textured consistency, punctuated by an aromatic flavor profile that’s expertly elevated by a subtle yet potent blend of spices. The key to its satisfying thickness lies in the incorporation of pureed lentils, while the warm, spicy undertones courtesy of ginger inject a delightful depth and vitality into each spoonful. Savor it at its best when served steaming hot alongside a crusty slice of pita bread.
Shurpa (Lamb Soup)
Shurpa is an exemplary representation of the perfect soup, boasting a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The tender lamb chops and hearty potatoes not only provide a satisfying chew but also contribute to the overall heartiness of the dish. Meanwhile, the rich broth expertly weaves together each component, creating a culinary experience that transcends mere sustenance. It’s a true delight!
Cheese Sambusak (Cheese Pastry Pie)
Indulge in the delightful world of Cheese Sambusak, a savory pastry that will quickly become a daily craving. This flaky delight bears resemblance to hand pies, but its true magic lies in its cheesy filling – a harmonious blend of salty, medium-soft, and herby flavors. The addition of crunchy seeds on top adds a satisfying texture, making each bite feel like a party in your mouth.
What’s more, the best part is that you can easily recreate this delightful treat at home, elevating it to new heights and giving you a taste experience akin to enjoying your favorite cheesy pizza – but with the added convenience of being handheld!
Harees
Harees, a delectable and satisfying dish, is often crafted with wheat and chicken or sometimes boneless lamb meat. Its consistency falls somewhere in between porridge and gruel, making it a comforting meal. Interestingly, Harees holds a special place during Ramadan, as it’s typically prepared daily during this sacred period. What’s more, the minimal use of spices ensures that the dish remains light and enjoyable on its own, yet filling enough to keep hunger at bay for several hours.
Hummus With Pine Nuts & Ground Beef
Get ready to be captivated by this extraordinary hummus! Its silky, velvety texture is infused with the earthy essence of pine nuts and the pungency of garlic, while the subtle spiciness from the ground beef adds depth. This show-stopping dip is sure to become your new favorite accompaniment for gatherings big or small – whether you’re hosting a party or just want to indulge in a cozy night in with friends.
Ful Medames
Indulge in the delectable world of Ful Medames! This traditional Arabian breakfast treat is a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their morning routine. The robust flavors, infused with an array of seasonings, tantalize the taste buds with each delicious bite. A harmonious balance of creamy and earthy notes melds seamlessly with savory undertones, leaving you craving more.
Typically served with crusty pita bread, Ful Medames is a culinary experience that will leave you feeling satisfied yet eager to try again.
Muhammara (Roasted Red Bell Pepper Dip)
Muhammara is a sensory delight that defies categorization. Its unique flavor profile is a harmonious balance of sweetness, smokiness, nuttiness, tanginess, and subtle spice, all working together to tantalize the taste buds. This delicious dip doesn’t just stop at being a great accompaniment to mezze platters – it’s equally enjoyable as a standalone snack paired with crackers or pita bread.
Shakshuka
The allure of shakshuka lies in its bold fusion of earthy spices and pungent feta cheese, which together create a captivating culinary experience. The name itself is fitting, ‘all mixed up,’ as it aptly describes the dish’s complex umami flavor profile. Despite its seemingly intricate nature, this North African delight boils down to poached eggs swimming in a rich tomato- pepper sauce infused with the warmth of cumin and paprika.
Chicken Fatteh With Chickpeas
What makes Chicken Fatteh With Chickpeas truly exceptional is its harmonious balance of flavors and textures. At the heart of this dish lies a satisfying combination of crispy, golden-brown toasted pita bread, rich yogurt, shredded chicken, and creamy chickpeas. The overall effect is one of delightful complexity, as each bite yields to a symphony of sensations – from the tangy zip of garlic to the cooling refreshment of zesty notes, all set against a backdrop of satisfying crunch and chew.
Salatat Jarjeer (Rocket Salad)
A flavor explosion awaits in every bite of Salatat Jarjeer, a salad that defies simplicity with its bold and complex taste profile. At its core is the peppery punch of rocca or arugula, which provides a strong foundation for the dish. The tangy dressing, infused with the subtle sweetness of sumac, adds a layer of depth and nuance. Meanwhile, the crunch of white onion contributes a satisfying textural element.
To complete this harmonious medley, pomegranate arils bring a tart and fruity dimension, expertly balancing the flavors to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Tabbouleh
The allure of Tabbouleh is undeniable. Its unique flavor profile is a symphony of fresh, vibrant notes. The zing of freshly squeezed lemon juice mingles with the sweetness of tomatoes, creating a natural harmony. A burst of earthy freshness comes from the abundance of parsley, while the nutty undertones of bulgur wheat add depth and complexity. Meanwhile, the cooling presence of mint leaves and the satisfying crunch of red onion bring a refreshing balance to the dish.
It’s an experience that will leave you wanting more.
Fattoush
Fattoush, a Middle Eastern delight, bursts with vitality, striking a perfect balance between tanginess and intrigue. The name ‘fattoush’ translates to ‘crumbs’ in Arabic, cleverly describing the pita chips that add a satisfying crunch and texture to this delectable salad. The crowning glory is a dressing crafted from lemon juice, olive oil, and sumac, which imbues the dish with a bright, slightly sour flavor profile.
As you pour it over the rest of the ingredients, every bite becomes a harmonious union of flavors, coating each element with its luscious essence.
Batata Harra (Middle Eastern Spicy Potatoes)
While patatas bravas may be the iconic Spanish dish, Batata Harra brings its own unique flair. Fresh herbs and spices infuse these potatoes with an exotic essence that sets them apart from their Iberian counterparts. The process begins by boiling the spuds until they’re tender and yielding to the bite. Next, they’re sautéed with a fragrant medley of garlic, herbs, and spices, allowing the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
And here’s the best part: you can tailor the heat level to your liking, whether that means a gentle warmth or a bold, fiery kick courtesy of red pepper flakes.
Cheese Manakish (Cheese Flatbread)
In the realm of Middle Eastern cuisine, a delightful treat awaits – Cheese Manakish. This golden-hued flatbread is characterized by its thin, crispy texture and topped with an enticing blend of cheese and nigella seeds. The versatile dish is also known as manakeesh, manaqish, or manoush, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
While it may seem like a complex culinary experience, Cheese Manakish is surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
With its breakfast-to-dinner versatility, you can indulge in this flavorful treat whenever your cravings strike.
Ka’ak With Za’atar, Turmeric & Nigella Seed
Get ready for a culinary adventure! Ka’ak, a soft and indulgent Arabian flatbread, is a treat unlike any other. With its crispy crust giving way to a chewy interior, it’s no surprise that ka’ak has earned comparisons to the classic bagel. But what truly sets it apart is the array of tantalizing flavors you can fill it with. From the pungent aroma of za’atar to the warm, golden glow of turmeric and nigella seeds, each bite is a masterclass in balance and harmony. The result?
A flavor explosion that’s equal parts sweet, savory, and addictive – guaranteed to leave you craving more.
Fatayer (Arabic Pies)
Fatayer is a delightful savory pie that boasts a flaky, buttery crust. Its versatility lies in its ability to accommodate an array of fillings, making it a snack or appetizer option that’s hard to resist. From gooey cheese to hearty meat and nutritious spinach, the choices are endless and all equally appealing. With such a range of options, there’s no need to fret about the outcome – whatever you choose, your taste buds will be treated to a culinary delight.
Falafel
The allure of falafel lies in its complex flavor profile, which harmoniously blends crunchy texture with savory, slightly spicy, and herbaceous notes. At its core, the taste is grainy, while the aroma is redolent with garlic, cumin, coriander, and parsley, all subtly intertwined. To truly appreciate this Middle Eastern delight, serve it atop a fresh salad or alongside a rich and creamy tahini sauce – the perfect accompaniments to elevate the experience.
Arayes (Meat-Filled Pita Pockets)
Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of arayes! These succulent treats are a perfect blend of juicy, spicy, and meaty flavors. You’ll crave them at every meal. Pair them with refreshing sides like fattoush or tabbouleh for a well-rounded snack. Alternatively, treat yourself to something creamy like hummus – the contrasting textures will elevate the experience.
Sfiha
Sfiha, a delectable street food from thin, yeast-leavened dough, is elevated by a piquant and savory meat mixture. The real pièce de résistance comes in the form of pine nuts and fresh parsley, added to the dough just before serving, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the flavor profile. If you’re on the hunt for some remarkable pizza-inspired options, then this recipe is definitely worth a try.
Dolmas (Stuffed Grape Leaves)
Indulge in one of these delightful treats and you’ll be transported to the aromatic streets of the Arabian Peninsula. The dolmas burst with a bright, citrusy flavor that’s as refreshing as a stroll through a bustling souk. Meanwhile, the tender grape leaves have a subtle tanginess reminiscent of collard greens, perfectly balanced by the herby aroma of the rice filling. Pair them with a rich and creamy garlicky yogurt sauce for a truly indulgent experience.
Musakhan Wrap (Sumac Chicken & Caramelized Onion Wraps)
A wrap’s appeal lies in its versatility, and when filled with the harmonious combination of sumac chicken and caramelized onions, it reaches new heights. The tangy essence of sumac and the deep sweetness of the caramelized onions are a match made in heaven. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and sensations that will leave you craving more. This recipe has earned a spot in my cookbook, and I’m confident it will do the same for yours.
Kibbeh
Indulge in the delightful Kibbeh, a mouthwatering Arabian delight that takes the form of a football-shaped croquette. Made from tender lamb or beef, this flavorful treat boasts a satisfying crunch on the outside and a succulent meaty filling within. The aromatic herbs, juicy meat, and hearty bulgur all combine to create an unforgettable culinary experience.
Vermicelli Rice (Arabic Rice)
Vermicelli rice is a captivating culinary creation that harmoniously blends the rich nutty essence of pine nuts with the iconic basmati rice, vermicelli pasta, and savory chicken stock. The process begins by frying the vermicelli pasta until it reaches a golden brown perfection, before incorporating it into the rice and liquid mixture. This culinary masterpiece yields an aromatic and fragrant dish that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
While it bears similarities to paella, vermicelli rice boasts a milder flavor profile with a lighter, more refined character. Moreover, its preparation is significantly less labor-intensive, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a flavorful yet effortless meal.
Shish Tawook (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
The moment you take a bite of Shish Tawook, you’ll be struck by the tender, juicy, and intensely flavorful chicken. The secret to its allure lies not in some mystical process, but rather in the harmonious blend of simple ingredients like yogurt, lemon juice, and spices that deeply penetrate the meat. The pungency of garlic adds a welcome depth, while the lemon’s brightness and sweetness provide an uplifting contrast.
Meanwhile, the flatbread plays its part by expertly absorbing those rich chicken juices, making it impossible to resist.
Eggplant Kebab With Tahini
Get ready for a game-changing flavor combination that will delight eggplant enthusiasts and converts alike. The Eggplant Kebab With Tahini is a masterclass in savory delights, where the rich, velvety texture of tahini adds an unexpected yet harmonious layer to the classic kebab formula. This delectable creation wraps tender eggplant in crispy flatbread, filling it with an aromatic medley of spices, crunchy salad, and creamy hummus – a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Kabsa (Arabic Chicken & Rice)
Indulge in the captivating flavors of Kabsa, a delectable one-pan dish that will transport your taste buds to a culinary haven. A symphony of chicken, spices, and aromas come together to create a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. The pungent aroma of lemon and spices teases the senses, leaving you eager to take a bite. With its simplicity belied by its depth of flavor, Kabsa is an ideal choice for those seeking a flavorful yet effortless culinary delight.
Chicken Shawarma
Chicken Shawarma is an aromatic Arabian dish that’s typically wrapped in a warm pita bread and accompanied by the creamy richness of garlic yogurt and the tangy crunch of pickled vegetables. The flavor profile is remarkably complex, with notes of spice and tanginess that tantalize the taste buds. When you finally take a bite into the succulent, juicy chicken, the experience is nothing short of extraordinary.
The tender meat practically melts in your mouth, leaving you craving another delicious encounter.
Kofta Kebab
Kofta Kebab embodies a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors. Imagine tender minced meat infused with an aromatic blend of herbs and spices, expertly grilled to perfection. The result is a culinary delight that balances succulence and freshness. A symphony of bold, earthy Middle Eastern spices and fresh herbs creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Al Faham (Grilled Arabian Chicken)
Savoring Al Faham’s rich, desert-like essence, it’s as if the Middle Eastern flavors transport you to a sun-baked oasis. The real magic lies in its harmonious blend of spices, delivering a deep, umami flavor that’s both tantalizing and familiar. Unlike other chicken dishes, Al Faham boasts a tender, juicy texture that effortlessly soaks up all those aromatic spices without becoming tough or dry.
Whether paired with fluffy rice or enjoyed on its own, this dish is sure to leave you craving more of its distinct, mouthwatering charm.
Instant Pot Middle Eastern Lamb Stew
Savoring a steaming bowl of Instant Pot Middle Eastern Lamb Stew is like experiencing the opulence of a high-end restaurant without the hefty price tag or pretension. This delectable dish begins with tender lamb, slow-cooked in an aromatic broth that practically melts it into submission. The rich flavors are then elevated by the addition of chickpeas and an array of fragrant spices, which infuse the stew with depth, warmth, and a hint of exotic adventure.
As the apricots and spices meld together, the chickpeas retain their satisfying texture, adding a delightful contrast to this delicate yet complex dish. The subtle sweetness from the honey and dried fruits beautifully balances out the tanginess in the recipe, resulting in a harmonious culinary experience that will leave you wondering how such simplicity can yield such profound flavor.
And, of course, it’s no surprise that this mouthwatering stew disappears with impressive speed, as its allure is undeniable.
Mansaf (Yogurt Lamb & Rice)
For those seeking a culinary experience that will leave their taste buds in awe, mansaf is the perfect dish to try. This traditional Arabic delight combines the creaminess of yogurt with the rich flavor of lamb, all wrapped up in three distinct layers. The first layer consists of crispy flatbread, topped with a flavorful turmeric-infused rice that soaks up the tangy yogurt sauce like a sponge.
But it’s the tender and aromatic lamb, seasoned with a blend of cardamom and cumin, that truly elevates this dish to new heights. The crunch of nuts adds a satisfying textural element, while the moist rice provides a comforting contrast. It’s little wonder why mansaf has become a beloved staple in Arabic cuisine.
Thareed
Thareed, an Arabian dish, embodies the essence of a hearty stew, albeit with a bolder flavor profile. This beloved culinary staple is synonymous with spicy, rich flavors and is often devoured during Ramadan. The sauce’s velvety texture is achieved through the combination of blended tomatoes and tomato paste, which serves as a perfect accompaniment to flatbread. For many individuals in the Middle East, Thareed holds a special place as a comfort food that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
Sayadieh (Arabic Fish & Rice)
In the Arab region, Sayadieh is a beloved classic that has gained widespread popularity. This mouthwatering dish consists of crispy fried fish, aromatic spiced rice, sweet caramelized onions, and a rich tahini salad. When combined, these components create a seafood extravaganza that’s sure to impress on any occasion. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare, yet its presentation would have you fooled into thinking it took hours of laborious effort.
The bottom line
Arabian cuisine is a culinary treasure trove, offering a world of flavors and aromas to explore. When you’re craving something deliciously exotic, like a tender kebab or fragrant lamb, remember that you have access to an incredible array of Arabian dishes just waiting to be discovered.
In fact, many of these mouthwatering meals have gained global popularity, even reaching American tables.
It’s no wonder why – once you’ve tried some of the scrumptious offerings on this list, you’ll be eager to share them with everyone. Unlock the 35 best Arabian foods we’ve curated from around the web, spanning savory meat-based dishes to decadent desserts.
