On a chilly winter day in Erbil, nothing warms the soul like a smoky, juicy kebab. From the legendary Yasin’s beneath the Citadel to Farooq Jaafar’s famed skewers on Iskan Street, Erbil’s kebabs are culinary ritual and cultural heritage. Wrapped in fresh naan, topped with sumac onions, and sipped with chilled Mastaw, each bite is a taste of Kurdish warmth.
The experience of dining on Iskender Döner at BayDöner in Erbil's Family Mall transcended mere consumption; it became a vivid memory. This iconic Turkish dish, rich in flavors and prepared traditionally, transported me through culinary history while also reflecting Erbil's diverse culture, blending Turkish culinary heritage with local life.
At Erbil's Grand Majidi Mall, I met up with my friend Arbab for a memorable dinner at Mandi Al-Hattab. The cosy atmosphere of the restaurant provided the perfect setting for enjoying a traditional Mandi meal. The dish, known for its deep flavours and cultural importance, offered both delight and a meaningful link to heritage, making the experience truly memorable.
Shawarma evokes memories of aromatic, succulent meat slowly roasted to perfection. Beginning in Baghdad’s vibrant streets, where street vendors skillfully carved tender chicken or lamb, it transformed into a cherished culinary experience. Recently, in Ranchi, a roadside vendor reignited that magic for me. While it lacked Baghdad's authenticity, the warm, comforting flavours evoked nostalgia, binding past and present and highlighting food’s power to connect us to cherished memories and moments.
Street food offers an authentic culinary experience, exemplified by the Pota Kaleji in Ranchi. This dish combines chicken liver, gizzard, and heart, deep-fried and tossed with spices, sauces, and fresh coriander for rich flavors. Its preparation reflects the vibrant spirit of street food, transforming simple ingredients into a gourmet delight.
In Erbil, Kurdistan, Yasin Restaurant is renowned for its succulent kebabs, drawing locals and travelers. The warm ambience and diverse menu create an unforgettable dining experience. We, a group of friends, enjoyed a feast, savoring traditional Kurdish flavors and the company of each other. The evening concluded with traditional Kurdish tea, leaving hearts full and memories cherished. Yasin Restaurant is a must-visit for a delightful culinary adventure.
Erbil, the vibrant heart of Kurdistan, reveals its stories through food, particularly the Chapli Kebabs made by my neighbor Arbab. Our friendship blossomed over shared meals and laughter, with each kebab offering a journey through time and culture. Arbab’s cooking, full of love and tradition, connected us deeply. The flavors and aromas of his kitchen embody cherished memories, making food a lasting expression of friendship and heritage.
The article discusses kebabs from two distinct regions: Iraq and India. Both kebabs, being from rich culinary traditions, vary greatly in their preparation and presentation. Iraqi kebabs like the shish and tikka use chunks of marinated meats, whereas Indian kebabs are made from minced meat mixed with herbs and spices. The Iraqi kebab is often complemented by amba, a fermented mango condiment, while the Indian variant is generally accompanied by yoghurt-based sauces, chutneys, and flatbreads.
The author enthusiastically recommends BBQ Nation, a restaurant in New Delhi that offers on-table grilling, with an array of starters, mains, desserts, and drinks. They praise the lively and welcoming ambiance, quality food variety from tikkas to biryanis, hands-on grilling experience, attentive service, and reasonable pricing. They highlighted their satisfaction with the restaurant's 'unlimited' starters, flavorful main course options, delightful desserts, and an exceptional kitchen tour.
Quzi is a traditional Iraqi dish celebrated for its tender lamb, fragrant rice, raisins, and almonds, embodying the rich culinary heritage of Iraq. Often served during special occasions, it pairs well with mezze, enhancing the dining experience. Quzi is a dish of flavor and tradition, perfect for sharing and celebrating.
