Joanna James
Dubai, a dazzling city known for its towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and opulent accommodation options like La Suite Dubai Hotel and Apartments, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. The culinary landscape of Dubai reflects the city's diverse population and international influence. From traditional Middle Eastern delights to global gastronomic innovations, Dubai's food scene is a treat for the taste buds. Here are five must-try foods that exemplify the rich flavours awaiting you in this cosmopolitan city.
A Street Food Sensation: Begin your culinary adventure with Dubai's quintessential street food – the shawarma. This Middle Eastern delight consists of succulent slices of marinated meat, usually chicken or lamb, layered on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is shaved off and wrapped in a warm, thin flatbread, creating a flavour explosion with each bite. The addition of garlic sauce, tahini, and a sprinkle of fresh vegetables completes this handheld masterpiece. Head to local eateries or street-side stalls for an authentic shawarma experience that showcases the city's cultural diversity.
A Traditional Ramadan Dish: For a taste of Emirati tradition, savour Al Harees, a dish that takes centre stage during Ramadan. This slow-cooked speciality combines meat (typically chicken or lamb) with wheat and a pinch of salt, creating a wholesome and hearty dish. Traditionally prepared in clay pots, Al Harees is slow-cooked for hours until the ingredients meld into a rich, porridge-like consistency. During Ramadan, locals gather to share this communal dish, emphasizing the spirit of togetherness and the joy of breaking the fast with a dish deeply rooted in cultural heritage. This treat is available at some of the best restaurants in Sheikh Zayed Road.
A Unique Culinary Delight: Elevate your gastronomic experience by trying a camel burger, an innovative fusion of tradition and modernity. Camel meat, lean and flavorful, is seasoned and grilled to perfection, then nestled in a bun with fresh vegetables and condiments. The camel burger offers a unique twist to the conventional beef patty, providing a taste of local flavours with a touch of novelty. Seek out restaurants specializing in Arabian cuisine to relish this distinctive Dubai delicacy.
A Levantine Fusion: Dive into the delectable world of Levantine cuisine with a plate of creamy hummus accompanied by freshly baked manakish. This Lebanese-inspired dish combines the smooth texture of hummus with the savoury flavours of manakish, a type of flatbread topped with za'atar (a blend of herbs and spices). The result is a harmonious mix of textures and tastes that showcases the influence of Levantine culinary traditions in Dubai. Head to traditional cafes or Middle Eastern restaurants to savour this delightful fusion.
Conclude your culinary journey with a sweet note by indulging in Kunafa, a heavenly dessert that epitomizes Middle Eastern sweetness. Layers of thin noodle-like pastry are skillfully baked to a golden crisp, encasing a rich filling of sweetened cheese or nuts. The entire creation is soaked in aromatic sugar syrup, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Whether enjoyed in a bustling market or an upscale dessert café, Kunafa is a Dubai must-try that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.
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.
