Joanna James
When it comes to cooking and dining in the Arabian Gulf, confessed foodies will be glad to know that there is no death of mouth-watering dishes and beverages to indulge in. Read on to find out more.
With a very similar taste and texture to doughnuts, Luqaimat is type of hot dumplings that are served with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and a delicious sticky date sauce. Almost all cafes and restaurants in Abu Dhabi are guaranteed to make fresh batches daily, so do make sure to enjoy a serving with a hot coffee as a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack.
A firm favorite of the locals, Knafeh is a pastry that traces its origins to Palestine. The dish is made from dough, crisp lashings of sugar syrup, and sour cheese. As with many dishes, this is best served immediately after being prepared. Knafeh tends to enjoy a popular resurgence every Ramadan, with orders for this dessert reaching thousands per day, as this is a beloved addition to the iftar table. Visiting foodies will be happy to know that this pastry is routinely offered at the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi including the likes in hotels such as Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort.
Traditionally, Emiratis did not favor eating camel meat, however, modern-day chefs are increasingly trying to incorporate this meat into everything from stews, burgers, biriyani, and sliders. Another interesting fact is that camel milk also contains higher levels of protein, vitamin C, and plenty of iron. while being lower in cholesterol. Keen to try some? Numerous artisan and health cafes offer camel milk in either milkshake or ice cream form, which come in a variety of flavours including dates. chocolate and pistachio.
While consuming alcohol in public is prohibited, the cocktail scene in Abu Dhabi is lively and thriving. If you are keen to sample exotic flavours then why not opt for some snazzy Turkish cocktails. The Anatolian Fizz in particular is a very popular choice among diners. Made with pomegranate molasses, raspberry. sparkling wine rose and citrus, this particular drink seamlessly captures the heady romance of the Middle-east. As a rule, a classic Turkish cocktail will be based on ingredients such as citrus, mint, spices, honey, hibiscus, rose, and pomegranate.
Emirate love their hot pastries, especially as appetizers. The samboosa lays claims to techniques and flavoring from India and is a dish best enjoyed hot with plenty of chutneys and sauces for added tanginess. Samboosa stuffing includes spices, vegetables, meat, and the more popular, cheese.
Strong and flavorful, a pipping hot tumbler of Arabian coffee, is enjoyed liberally by both locals and visitors in the UAE. However, if you are keen on sampling the best, opt for a traditional Arabic coffee, made with cardamom and lightly roasted beans, which is served with an offering of local and organic dates.
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.
