Local Dishes in Dubai: Dubai boasts some diverse and excellent eating venues that serve various global cuisines. However, one of the most exhilarating components of going to this city is trying the local dishes in Dubai. Traditional Emirati food is substantial, full of taste and based on components available in the region since time immemorial Emirati cuisine is quite filling and is rich in such staples. Here are the five most delicious local dishes in Dubai that are worth to give a try.
Table of Contents
Check out these 5 Local Dishes in Dubai that are Worth Trying
1) Dates
Dates have been an essential part of Emirati diet for many generations, and nowadays in Dubai they are not just a delicious meal, but a tradition of hospitality as well. Although people usually have dates when breeching the fast during evening, they can be eaten at any time of the year. Rich in fiber and sweetness, Dates are added to meals – particularly with Arabic coffee. For those who would like to gratify their taste buds with this treat, a number of Bateel stores located all over the city offer high quality dates stuffed with almonds, orange peel or even chocolate. Dates are one of the most loved local dishes in Dubai, combining the idea of healthy and tasty meals.
2) Camel Meat
Camel meat might not be as popular today as it was some time back, then it still holds a special place in the hearts of most people in this part of the world. Traditionally the Emirati society relied on camels as means of transport, source of clothing and for food. Today camel meat can be consumed in different manners such as Camels burgers or even foods prepared from camel milk. It is traditionally served at wedding ceremonies. The best places are Switch and The Local House, which of course have more contemporary feel and where you can even try camel burgers. Among local specialties, camel meat is one of the most extraordinary local dishes in Dubai.
3) Qoozi
Qoozi is another iconic dish which may also include lamb, rice, and a selection of other preparations such as roasted nuts or raisins. The lamb is marinated and cooked slowly and then spiced to provide a flavourful, tender meat when eaten with rice. In Dubai, it is covered with palm leaves and cooked in a ground oven in order to give it a more natural and earthen taste. It is particularly prepared during days of celebration or during any form of a big event. If you are in a hurry to taste this taste, it is recommended to go to stir places such as Kabab Erbil Iraqi Restaurant or Babylon where Qoozi is cooked with utmost care. For sure, Qoozi is one of the delighting local dishes in Dubai you should never miss when you are in Dubai.
4) Arabic Bread
Bread is highly valued in Middle Eastern culture and in Dubai it is equally prized. Also known as khubz, Arabic bread is as a cutting tool, as well as a form of side dish. In order to talk about bread in Dubai, pita bread is usually the bread kind that is famous for in the region; however, there are more kinds of bread in Dubai. Khamir bread is a breakfast bread which include flour, thick yeast, dried dates which are popularly consumed in the cooler periods of the year. On the other hand, the consumers prefer the chibab bread thinner variant commonly known as mkahambo during summer. These different kinds of bread are found in many local dishes in Dubai.
5) Mandi
Mandi, an ancient Yemen food has become one of the most favourite local dishes in Dubai. It is made up of rice that is scented, meat (preferably mutton or chicken), and spices that will make the dish smell and taste incredible. Usually the meat is buried and is cooked slowly, in a way which can take a couple of hours; therefore the meat is extremely soft and organic. Mandi is often prepared for family events and takes many shapes in the Arabian Peninsula. Some of the best mandi can be found at special restaurants in Old Dubai: Al Jood Mandi or Bait Al Mandi. In Dubai, sharing is an important aspect of the meal and thus, a meal which represents this culture is the mandi.
Also Read: 3 Best Vegan Restaurants in Dubai That Will Serve You Delicious Food
Conclusion
A journey to the various foods and local dishes in Dubai is a discovery of the rich culture and food option in the UAE. Sweet dates, camel meat and addictive fragrance of mandi are some of the many dishes which define traditions and cultural influence of this city. Whether you are looking for a meal that will really fill you up or a snack – or even breakfast – Dubai’s local food offering will not fail to excite with its great choice, quality, and, most importantly, genuine Arabian flavour. So, therefore, the next time you are in the city, do not cheat yourself of these magnificent tastes.