If you are planning a trip to the UAE soon, you should definitely try out the local cuisine. Nothing could be more delightful than having an amazing dining experience while travelling. An outstanding and satisfying meal can make your day even better and highlight your holiday experience. The UAE has a rich dining culture, and the food choices are diverse, flavourful and incredibly delicious. The local food is a fusion of Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine, with influences from Europe and Africa.
The UAE offers a vast selection of eateries ranging from chic cafes to high-end restaurants.
Shawarma
You can’t visit the UAE without trying some of the tastiest in the Middle East. They come in chicken, beef, and lamb versions, and they usually include an array of fresh salads, garlic sauce, and french fries wrapped up in fluffy pita bread. You can find shawarma almost everywhere in the UAE, but the best place to try it is at the Dubai Mall, where you’ll find shawarma stands. Or if you want to find the best restaurants to sit down and enjoy shawarma, have a look at Square Meal UAE to help you discover where to go.
Machboos
Machboos is a spicy rice dish that originated in the UAE but is also popular in other Gulf countries. The rice is cooked with chicken, fish or hamour, and an assortment of spices with the perfect taste of saffron, which gives it a unique flavour. The dish is served with a side of yoghurt sauce or salad and is often presented with a wide range of pickles and sauces.
Luqaimat
Luqaimat is a delicious and traditional Emirati dessert made up of small dumplings that are deep-fried and drizzled with sticky sweet syrup. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and should be at the top of your list of must-tries.
Kebabs
Kebabs are a popular food item in the UAE, and you can find a local street vendor that sells them throughout the country. These popular treats come in beef, chicken or lamb, and they taste amazing. The best kebabs are served with delicious bread and a variety of pickles.
Seafood
The UAE has a diverse and thriving seafood culture and there are many seafood restaurants in the country. The best seafood is found in Abu Dhabi, where you can experience the delicacy of fresh seafood. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Abu Dhabi include fish masala, lobster, and shrimp.
Al Harees
This dish is unique to the UAE and is a must-try when you are in the country. Al Harees is a creamy dish made from wheat, meat, and ghee. The wheat and meat are simmered for hours until they are soft, and the dish is topped off with ghee to create a velvety texture. Al Harees is considered comfort food in the UAE and is served during weddings, festivals and other occasions. It’s often served in a clay pot, which gives an authentic local touch.
Camel Milk Ice Cream
If you are feeling adventurous, you must try camel milk ice cream when you are dining in the UAE. Camel milk is a popular drink in the UAE, and the ice cream is made from fresh camel milk that is blended with cream, sugar, and other ingredients. The ice cream has a unique flavour and creamy texture. It is a perfect dessert after a heavy meal! Dubai’s Camelicious Dairy Company is famous for its camel milk ice cream.
Conclusion:
The UAE is a food paradise with numerous delicacies from various cultures that are worth trying. Whether you are a tourist or a resident of the UAE, it is a good idea to experience the local cuisine. From shawarmas to kebabs, Machboos to luqaimat, and seafood, you cannot go wrong. So, why not head out and try something new today? You never know, you might just find your new favourite dish.
Disclaimer: This is a collaborative post
