Joanna James
Unique in flavour, aroma and texture Arabic food is quite a treat. Each region has its own twist on recipes; as you will see by browsing the most loved dishes in Abu Dhabi.
This is quite an easy Arabic recipe that any amateur cook can handle. It is a staple Middle Eastern dish that is a great accompaniment to hot pitta bread, crackers and salads. Hummus is made with chickpeas and sesame seed paste - which in Arabia is called Tahini. This dish is always available at any one of many a resort in Abu Dhabi. A basic portion would require 25g of chickpeas, 3 tablespoons of sesame seed paste and 2 cloves of garlic. Soak the chickpeas – preferably overnight, boil until soft and blend in a food processor with garlic, sesame seeds and a dash of lime and salt until smooth. You may add some of the remaining water after boiling the chickpeas to make the paste consistent. Garnish with olive oil and coriander leaves.
Falafel also called Ta'meya is a fried vegetable patty that makes a great starter, filling or part of the main course. Falafel is made from chickpeas or fava beans; which together with other ingredients such as onions, garlic, sesame seeds and whole wheat etc. is fashioned into a patty and deep fried. This makes a great starter dipped in sauce or is used as Falafel where together with a crispy salad it is wrapped up in pitta bread. Look up recipes for Falafel hot sauce.
Tahini or sesame seed paste is available at many Arabic or health food stores; but if you want a unique taste and are concerned about preservatives, consider making the paste at home. All you need is sesame seeds and vegetable oil. Bake the seeds in the oven on medium heat; ensure the seeds do not brown by regularly shaking the tray – bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Blend this once toasted with the oil to form a runny paste. You can refrigerate and keep the tahini for a few weeks.
This salsa found in practically every Abu Dhabi restaurant is a great accompaniment to many dishes; especially fish and rice. The texture and taste are very similar to Mexican salsa while some Arabs refer the mixture as Salata or Dakoos. Basically, this is a combination of tomatoes, Serrano chillies, minced cilantro, green onions, olive oil, salt to taste and lime juice. Simply combine all the ingredients for a fresh salsa simply bursting with flavour. If you are visiting Abu Dhabi look forward to a gastronomical journey of delight. The city is well known for its numerous restaurants serving a variety of local cuisine. If you choose accommodation wisely at one of the luxurious Abu Dhabi resorts you will find a number of in-house 'themed' restaurants that let you taste a variety of exotic dishes. Enjoy the elegant ambience and cosy interiors as you tuck into gourmet meals prepared to perfection at these restaurants. Enjoy al-fresco dining as you are treated to vast views of desert dunes and marvellous sunsets at these fabulous Abu Dhabi desert resorts such as the Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Yamm Villa Resort.
Locally referred to as Baba Ghanouj, this eggplant dip is bursting with flavour and makes a great accompaniment to pitta bread, toast or crackers. All you need is eggplant, tahini paste, lemon juice, olive oil, red pepper and chopped parsley. Before your visit to Abu Dhabi, read up on all the exotic recipes and make sure to book yourself into one of the best Abu Dhabi resorts for tasting the enticing flavours of Middle-Eastern cuisine.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
