Saudi Arabian cuisine

Saudi Arabian cuisine encompasses the culinary traditions and practices found in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The cuisine is rich and diverse, reflecting the country's tribal and regional variations, as well as its Islamic dietary laws.

History

The history of Saudi Arabian cuisine is deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions. The cuisine has been influenced by the nomadic Bedouin lifestyle, as well as by the pilgrims who brought new flavors and dishes from their homelands. The cuisine has also been influenced by the country's trading history, with spices, grains, and fruits being imported from around the world.

Ingredients

The staple foods of Saudi Arabian cuisine include lamb, chicken, rice, yogurt, and dates. Spices such as saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves are used extensively. Traditional dishes often feature a combination of these ingredients, with rice and meat being the most common components.

Traditional dishes

One of the most well-known dishes in Saudi Arabian cuisine is Kabsa, a spiced rice dish often served with lamb or chicken. Other popular dishes include Mandi, a traditional dish of rice, meat, and spices cooked in a tandoor, and Jareesh, a type of cracked wheat stew.

Dining customs

Dining customs in Saudi Arabia often involve communal eating, with meals being a social event. It is customary to eat with the right hand, and to share dishes that are placed in the center of the table. During the holy month of Ramadan, fasting is observed from dawn until sunset, after which a special meal known as Iftar is enjoyed.

Influence and spread

Saudi Arabian cuisine has influenced and been influenced by the cuisines of its neighboring countries, including Yemen, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates. In recent years, Saudi Arabian cuisine has gained international recognition, with Saudi restaurants opening in cities around the world.

See also

• Middle Eastern cuisine
• Arab cuisine
• Islamic dietary laws