Qatar is rising as a preferred destination for global travellers for an array of reasons, be it for events of scale or exhilarating excursions. Yet another treasure trove native to this nation in the Arabian region is its unique local cuisine which is a seamless blend of age-old recipes and ingredients with modern culinary influences. Home to fragrant spices and savoury stews, Qatar’s food offerings are filled with flavours from across the Arabian Peninsula. Here are some of the local dishes that you must try when visiting Qatar.
1. Machboos: A rice-based dish also popularly known as the national dish of Qatar, Machboos is a blend of spices, including turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, etc., and takes on various forms, boasting chicken, lamb, or fish as its central ingredient. Served with a crisp salad and a fiery tomato sauce called daqqus, Machboos is an experience showcasing the essence of Qatar’s culinary excellence.
2. Luqaimat: Sweet tooth enthusiasts can sink their teeth in Luqaimat. These bite-sized dumplings are made with butter, milk, flour, sugar, saffron, and cardamom. Deep-fried to golden, they are served with syrup, honey, or sugar.
3. Harees: Connecting Qatar with its Middle Eastern roots, Harees is often relished during Ramadan, Eid, and other remarkable occasions. A comfort food dish, it combines beaten wheat, and tender meat which usually is chicken and butter, that together emanate a beautiful blend of flavours. Garnished with fragrant spices like cinnamon and cardamom, Harees reflects Qatar’s traditions.
4. Balaleet: A dish between breakfast and dessert, Balaleet is made with vermicelli noodles and gives a feel of both sweet and savoury. The noodles are infused with sugar, cardamom, rose water, and saffron and are served with an omelette.
5. Karak Tea: A local favourite and omnipresent on the streets of Qatar is the aromatic Karak tea – a sweet and creamy hot beverage. Combining robust black tea with velvety milk and a hint of sweetness, Karak tea is served in glass cups, making it the ideal choice to start the morning with or an accompanying drink in the afternoon indulgence.
6. Umm Ali: Umm Ali, a beloved dessert found throughout the Middle East, receives a unique Qatari spin as Karaki – a renowned spot celebrated for its sweet Karak tea, serves a delectable version of Umm Ali. Creamy and rich, this dessert showcases one of Qatar’s traditional delights that offer a flavorful twist.
7. Saloona: Completing the gastronomic journey through Qatar’s local cuisine is Saloona, an Arabian stew made from locally available veggies, meat, aromatic spices, and flavourful broth. It fosters community eating and is an ideal dish for sharing with friends and family.
Discovering Qatar’s local cuisine is beyond indulging in delicious dishes, but exploring the culture, tradition, and community as each bite tells a story of Qatar’s past, present, and future.A passionate foodie or a curious traveller, Qatar’s local cuisine promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave one looking out for more.
(Mr Manoj Kumar Tiwari, General Manager, Regency Travel & Tours)
