Food, glorious food! For today’s foodie feature we will be talking about the foods of the Gulf. Though all of the countries in the Gulf share a similar culture, each and every one of them has a unique take on their cuisine. From different meats and rice to fish, and more – keep reading to learn about the top or most popular food in every Gulf Country.

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its extravagant and luxurious lifestyle, and though the country has developed and innovated to incorporate different things from every culture in the world when it comes to food, they are true to their heritage. The most popular food in the UAE is a dish that goes by the name Khuzi – a complete, filling, and delicious meal that consists of roasted lamb or mutton served on top of a bed of rice and topped with vegetables and nuts. Sounds delicious!

Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, yet another prominent country that comes to mind when thinking of the Gulf – like the UAE – has stuck to their roots when it comes to their national dish and one of the most popular foods in the Kingdom. Kabsa, the mixed rice dish is loved by not only the people in the Kingdom but in the Gulf region alike. Serve Kabsa with fresh mixed cucumber, carrot, lettuce, and tomato salad — preferably with a little lime vinaigrette and some fresh pita bread on the side. Saudis like their Kabsa with a hot sauce called ‘Shattah’. Have you tried it?

Kuwait

Kuwait, bordering Saudi Arabia to the south is known for its cultural dish that goes by the name Harees – basically boiled, cracked, or coarsely ground wheat mixed with meat. This dish is considered to be good for your health because of its nutrient content, and it serves as a great way to break the fast at Iftar during Ramadan, but people in the region enjoy it all year round! Harees also goes by the names Jareesh, Boko Boko, or harissa.

Bahrain

The Island nation of the Kingdom of Bahrain is no stranger to the rice and meat combination that seems to be quite prominent in the Gulf region – except in Bahrain, it is called Machboos or Machboos Ala Dajaaj – directly translating to Machboos with Chicken. This dish is commonly served at gatherings with friends and family and tastes delicious. Would you make this meal for your next gathering?

Iraq

Iraq’s most popular dish is Masgouf – a Mesopotamian dish consisting of seasoned, grilled carp, which is butterflied, marinated, set on skewers, then grilled next to open fire. This is because the main freshwater fish are various species of the genus Barbus and carp, which are pulled from Iraqi national waters. We love seafood and are glad to see it as one of the most popular dishes in the region!

Oman

Last, but not least, we have Oman, famous for dazzling souks and superb seafood – although that is not the national dish of the country! There’s one food in particular that marks a celebration in Oman, and it’s Shuwa. Considered Oman’s national dish, this slow-roasted lamb recipe typically takes several days to prepare. After marinating for 24 hours, the lamb is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an underground pit for at least a day.