Have you seen those huge pots and jars that Arab men and women slam down onto large dining mats with a flourish? Long-grain rice, large chunks of meat, chickpeas, lentils, beans, and hummus or olive oil!
Oh my, what a feast this delicious spread must be!
Yes, this is the grandeur of the Arabic feast! In the Gulf countries, such lavish dining setups are found almost everywhere and are becoming increasingly popular. Not just the food, but even the traditional way of eating is being embraced by people. Many restaurants and eateries have opened up, offering Arabic coffee and meals, which are gaining fame across regions, often paired with local flavors.
But what is it about these dishes that makes them a staple not only in the virtual worlds of YouTube and TikTok but also in real-life family gatherings and dinner parties?
Would you like to uncover the secret with us?
2. Middle Eastern Food Fever in Different Regions
Arabic cuisines are loved in different regions with local infusions. As it enjoys immense popularity, let us first give a breakdown of the popular dishes in various regions:
- South Asia (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka)
Popular Dishes: Mandi, Shawarma, and Hummus.
- North Africa (Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria)
Popular Dishes: Tagine, Couscous, Fatteh, Shakshouka, and Harira.
- Europe
Popular Dishes: Shawarma, Falafel, Hummus, and Baklava.
- North America (USA and Canada)
Popular Dishes: Shawarma, Falafel, Hummus, Tabbouleh, and Baklava.
- Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore)
Popular Dishes: Mandi, Shawarma, Kebabs, and Kunafa.
- Africa (Sub-Saharan Region)
Popular Dishes: Mandi, Shawarma, Kebabs, and Foul Medames.
- East Asia (China, Japan, South Korea)
Popular Dishes: Shawarma, Hummus, and Baklava.
- Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina)
Popular Dishes: Shawarma (known as Tacos Árabes), Baklava.
The best part about all these regions is that these foods are enjoyed either as street food or as part of their famous cuisines. People and restaurants often claim through various communication channels that these dishes are among the best-selling items on their menus. This is truly a remarkable achievement!
2. Don’t be Confuse its Easy to Infuse
- One of the most important factors that make Arabic cuisine so lovable is its adaptability to local spices.
- For example, unlike French dishes where adding a South Asian spice like cardamom to lasagna wouldn’t work, you can easily incorporate it into Mandi.
- This adaptability makes Arabic cuisine easy to prepare, especially for home cooks.
- In regions like South Asia, where Biryani is a national favorite, people naturally gravitate towards dishes that have strong spices, bold tastes, and rich flavors.
- Undoubtedly, Arabic dishes perfectly meet these criteria, making them a popular choice in these regions.
3. Beef Lovers find Heaven in it!
Meat lovers often hold an unrivaled passion for their favorite dishes, and Arabic cuisine is a paradise for them. The Gulf region, in particular, is renowned for its generous portions of meat, including massive leg pieces and large, tender cuts. These meats are expertly steamed and slow-cooked to perfection, with their natural fat adding a rich depth of flavor. The simple yet impactful use of seasonings like salt and pepper enhances the natural taste, while the addition of a rich, flavorful gravy makes the dish truly irresistible. For anyone who loves beef, Arabic cuisine offers a culinary experience that is both indulgent and unforgettable.
4. Health Conscious can Alert!
Well, if you’re someone who is curious about your health or worried about calories, or if you’re suffering from any illness or sickness, you can easily enjoy Arabic dishes without any fear. The best part about them is that they have a balanced use of spices, and they are health-oriented foods, featuring ingredients like olive oil, vegetables, peas, rice, grains, and meat a dish full of protein and carbohydrates, making it ideal for those dealing with health issues. As we all know, sprouts are great for health, and this is one of the best aspects of Arabic foods, they are often cooked in a sprout-based gravy. This is what makes them healthy, tasty, and wholesome.
5. Oriented, Organized and Tasteful Serving Platters
Arabic dishes strike a perfect balance of spices in terms of taste and flavor. The spices used are always in a controlled amount, particularly in traditional dishes. Take a simple Mandi, for example: it is cooked with a small amount of olive oil, whole spices, chickpeas, rice, sprouts, and roasted meat. The dish is typically served with parsley, olives, berries, and Hummus. To complete the meal, it’s accompanied by Qehwa, the Arabic tea that balances everything and aids digestion. This method of serving gives you a feeling of having had a wholesome and satisfying meal. Even a simple Shawarma, with its combination of bread, vegetables, and meat, offers a complete and nutritious meal.
So, what’s your plan? Why not enjoy a platter of Mandi AlKhaleej?
Let’s Make Your Reason for Liking Arabic Food by Paying a Visit!
It’s highly recommended to visit an Arabic food place near you and try something new, like Mandi AlKhaleej, which offers the best and most authentic Gulf flavors. They provide a wide range of Gulf food at affordable prices. So, what are you waiting for? Get in the mood to try something new, discover your reason for loving Arabic food, and indulge in a flavorful experience. Alaah!