Saudi National Dishes

Saudi Arabia is a land of rich traditions, diverse cultures, and delicious cuisine. From the mouth-watering aroma of Arabic coffee to the tantalising taste of dates, Saudi Arabia has something to offer for every food lover. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most popular national dishes in Saudi Arabia and learn about the history and culture behind them.

 

Jareesh

Jareesh was announced as Saudis National Dish by the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission in 2023. It is a dish that is made with cracked wheat, meat, and spices. The wheat is soaked in water overnight, then cooked with meat, typically lamb or chicken, until it becomes a porridge-like consistency. The dish is seasoned with a blend of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, and is often garnished with fried onions or herbs. Jareesh is a hearty and comforting dish that’s commonly eaten during Ramadan as a way to break the fast.

 

Kabsa

Kabsa is undoubtedly the most famous and beloved dish in Saudi Arabia. This hearty and flavourful rice dish is made with a combination of long-grain rice, spices, and meat, typically chicken or lamb but can also be served with fish. The dish is often garnished with nuts, raisins, and vegetables, such as carrots and onions. Kabsa is usually served on special occasions, such as weddings, Eid al-Fitr, and other festive events.

The origin of Kabsa is disputed, with some sources tracing it back to the Bedouin tribes who roamed the Arabian Peninsula. Over time, the dish has evolved and become an integral part of Saudi cuisine. Kabsa is a symbol of hospitality and generosity, and it’s often served to guests as a sign of respect.

 

Tharid

Tharid is a popular Saudi Arabian dish that’s made with bread and meat. The dish consists of layers of torn bread that are soaked in a meat broth, then topped with tender pieces of meat, typically lamb or chicken. Tharid is seasoned with a blend of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom, and is often garnished with fried onions or herbs. According to several Hadith teachings, Tharid was one of the Prophet Muhammad’s favourite dishes, even though its origins are said to date back to the pre-Islamic times.

 

Of course there are also plenty of sweet dishes.

 

Maqshush

The Saudi Culinary Arts Commission chose Maqshush as the national dessert for Saudi Arabia in 2023. It is another beloved dish widely known across parts of the Kingdom. The dish comprises small loaves of wheat flour before ghee is added with honey, molasses, or sugar. It can be served typically for breakfast but it is also often indulged in as an ideal treat during cold weather and rain.

A must try.

Ma’amoul is a popular dessert in Saudi Arabia and throughout the Middle East. These small, delicate pastries are typically made with semolina flour, flour, and butter or ghee, then filled with sweet fillings like dates, nuts, or sweet cheese. The dough is molded into small balls or shapes, then pressed into special moulds to create intricate patterns and designs. We loved to eat it especially with coffee.

 

Saudi Cheesecake

 

Our favourite dessert in Saudi is actually served in a very authentic Saudi restaurant called Suhail. We will do a separate post just on the restaurant as the food is so incredible there.

Back to the cheesecake: It is a traditional Hneini layered with cheesecake served with cardamom caramel sauce and we just cannot get enough of it.

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