Top 10 MustTry Foods in Saudi Arabia

The vast Middle Eastern kingdom of Saudi Arabia is well known for its exquisite cuisine that is closely associated with its history and long-standing customs. The food of Saudi Arabia is an integral part of the country’s culture, representing hospitality, and compassion. The nation offers a broad variety of delicacies that represent its historical heritage, from filling rice meals to sweet desserts. The sharing of food is a fundamental aspect of Saudi hospitality, so if you ever find yourself there, be prepared for a feast served on huge communal trays. 

Here are top 10 popular Saudi Arabian dishes that are a must-try:

1. Ruz Al Bukhari (Bukhari Rice)

AlFahm, another name for Ruz Al Bukhari, is a flavorful rice dish that is usually served with roasted chicken. Spices like star anise, cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon provide the taste to the rice, which is frequently garnished with browned onions and raisins. Almonds and pine nuts are even added in some varieties. This dish is served with a side of salata hara, a fiery tomato sauce that gives it a sour flavour. This dish, which bears the name of the mediaeval city of Bukhara, is a mainstay of Saudi Arabian cooking and is thought to have historical connections to the Silk Road.

2. Muttabaq

Muttabaq is a loaded pastry stocked with minced beef, eggs, leeks, and onions. It is a famous street snack. Muttabaq, which means “folded,” is the name of the preparation technique that involves rolling out the dough, stuffing it, folding it into a rectangle shape, then shallow-frying it until it becomes golden brown. Bite-sized portions of this snack are presented alongside whole chilli peppers and lemon slices. This is a must-try for those who want to experience the flavorful, crunchy deliciousness found in typical Saudi cuisine.

3. Ful wa Tameez

This is a Saudi traditional food served as a morning meal. Dul wa Ta’ameez is particularly well-liked during Ramadan. It is made up of a thick flatbread called Tameez and a stew (ful) of fava beans boiled with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices. Fresh herbs and olive oil are frequently used to garnish the dish. Warm and filling, this dish is a favourite for its rich, cosy flavours and is typically consumed during Suhoor, the predawn feast.

4. Kibbeh

In Saudi Arabia, kibbeh is the epitome of comfort meals. This meal, which is bulgur wheat and ground meat, is served as deep-fried croquettes filled with seasoned meat and pine nuts. In some regions, it can also be served uncooked or baked. A favourite dish in Saudi cuisine, kibbeh has a crispy outside and a soft, delicious centre that contrasts well.

5. Kunafah

Saudi Arabia is not an exception to the Middle Eastern dessert kunafah’s widespread popularity. This is a delicious pastry bursting with cheese or cream and coated in sugar syrup, with a crunchy exterior layer consisting of shredded phyllo dough or semolina. Since kunafah is usually served hot it’s the ideal dessert following a filling lunch. When talking about top Saudi foods, this delicious treat is unavoidable.

6. Maamoul

Maamoul cookies are a must-try on festivities and times of celebration. Figs, dates, pistachios, and walnuts are just a few of the stuffings that these delicious biscuit pastries can hold. Maamoul, a dish stuffed with dates, is especially well-liked in Saudi Arabia and is frequently circulated among relatives and acquaintances during festivities. These tiny biscuits are truly melt-in-your-mouth delicious and pair perfectly with a hot mug of Saudi teas or Gahwa(traditional coffee).

7. Kabsa

Saudi Arabia’s national cuisine, kabsa, is a fragrant rice and meat dish that’s usually presented on communal trays. It is similar to Ruz Al Bukhari, but with a special combination of cardamom, cumin, and coriander. The meal is typically served with fiery tomato sauce (salata hara) and garnished with caramelised onions, raisins, and pine nuts. A cornerstone of gatherings with relatives, kabsa is a true embodiment of traditional Saudi cuisine.

8. Arayes

Another one of the traditional Saudi dishes are the pita bread sandwiches called “arayes” are filled with spiced minced lamb, onions, and other ingredients and then expertly grilled. These crunchy sandwiches are a favourite starter or munch; subject to the location, they can be pan-fried or oven-baked. Crunchy pita combined with flavorful meat makes Arayes a delectable dish from Saudi Arabia.

9. Fatayer

A multipurpose cuisine, fatayer is made up of baked pies stuffed with cheese, meat, spinach, or labneh. These delicious pastries come in a variety of forms and sizes and are typically served as snacks or starters. Fatayer is a must-try while sampling the many foods that Saudi Arabia has to offer. 

10. Ferek

Ferek is a classic meal particularly during the wintertime. This food item, which is made with bread, sugar, spices, and caramelised onions, is simultaneously savoury, sweet, and filling. Ferek is a tasty treat to have during the winter months, since locals frequently enjoy it as a comforting meal.

Travel to Saudi Arabia and Experience Its Culinary Wonders

Whether you’re looking forward to getting a taste of Kabsa, or delicious pastries like Kunafah, Kanoo Travel is the best way to achieve your Saudi Arabian cuisine dream. Travellers wishing to sample the diverse and delectable cuisine of Saudi Arabia can rely on Kanoo Travel to take care of everything from booking, lodging and itineraries filled with the best places to eat.

Saudi Arabia’s strong culinary legacy is a reflection of the country’s varied topography and rich cultural past. With decadent flavours ranging from fragrant rice dishes like Ruz Al Bukhari to sweet desserts like Maamoul, a foodie might find Saudi Arabia the perfect place to travel to. Discover Saudi Arabia’s food culture and hospitality by booking your trip with Kanoo Travel today.