The History of Emirati Food

The cuisine of the United Arab Emirates is as diverse and flavorful as its culture. Dubai, one of the seven emirates, has a rich history of food, influenced by the city’s location along the Arabian Gulf, trade with neighboring countries, and its Bedouin roots.

Emirati cuisine typically includes dishes with meat, rice, and spices. Lamb, chicken, and fish are popular meats used in dishes such as Machboos, a spicy rice dish with meat or fish, and Thareed, a dish of slow-cooked lamb or chicken served with thin bread. Another popular dish is Kabsa, a flavorful rice dish with meat, vegetables, and spices.

Seafood also plays a significant role in Emirati cuisine, with dishes such as grilled or fried fish and shrimp. The traditional way of cooking fish is by burying it in the sand and cooking it slowly over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavor.

Another staple of Emirati cuisine is bread, which is often served alongside savory dishes. Khameer, a traditional Emirati bread made from yeast, flour, and sugar, is soft and slightly sweet. It is often served with honey, cheese, or dates.

One of the most popular Emirati sweets is Luqaimat, small deep-fried dumplings made of dough and drizzled with syrup. They are often served during Ramadan and other special occasions. Another sweet treat is Balaleet, a sweet vermicelli pudding with saffron and cardamom.

Dubai’s food scene has evolved over the years, with the influx of expatriates and tourists bringing their own culinary influences. As a result, the city has a diverse array of international cuisine, from Japanese sushi to Italian pizza. However, traditional Emirati cuisine remains an essential part of Dubai’s food culture, with many restaurants serving authentic Emirati dishes.

One such restaurant is Al Fanar, located in Dubai Festival City. Al Fanar serves traditional Emirati dishes in a nostalgic setting, reminiscent of Dubai in the 1960s. The restaurant’s menu includes dishes such as Samboosa, a savory pastry filled with meat or vegetables, and Balaleet, the sweet vermicelli pudding.

Another restaurant that serves Emirati cuisine is Seven Sands, located in The Beach at JBR. The restaurant’s menu includes traditional dishes such as Machboos, Thareed, and Kabsa, as well as modern takes on Emirati cuisine.

In conclusion, Emirati cuisine, with its rich history and diverse influences, is a vital part of Dubai’s food culture. Traditional dishes such as Machboos, Thareed, and Kabsa, as well as sweet treats like Luqaimat and Balaleet, offer a flavorful and authentic taste of Emirati cuisine. With restaurants such as Al Fanar and Seven Sands serving traditional Emirati dishes, locals and tourists alike can experience the unique flavors of Dubai’s food scene.