Middle Eastern cuisine is a diverse and flavorful culinary tradition that encompasses the dishes of various countries and cultures in the Middle East. The region is known for its use of aromatic spices, herbs, and a wide variety of ingredients such as grains, legumes, meats, and vegetables.
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.
In Erbil, I enjoyed Koshary, Egypt's national dish, blending lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and spicy tomato sauce, with roots tracing back to India's khichri. This iconic vegetarian dish reflects cultural fusion and has become a staple in diverse culinary landscapes. Its affordability, filling nature, and universal appeal make it popular among locals and visitors, symbolizing food's power to connect cultures through shared heritage.
While in Erbil, I discovered freekeh, a green wheat grain roasted for a smoky flavor paired with chicken. This culinary exploration led to understanding freekeh's rich history and significance in Middle Eastern cuisine. Once a staple, it faced decline but has revived globally for its health benefits and sustainability. Freekeh offers a delicious link to cultural heritage and ancient culinary practices.
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.
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.
Makdous is a cherished delicacy in the Middle East, known for its blend of flavours and cultural significance. This pickled eggplant dish, rooted in Levantine tradition, symbolizes resourcefulness and community. With its growing popularity globally, Makdous continues to inspire modern culinary creations while preserving its authentic essence and timeless appeal.
In the heart of Baghdad's Adhamiya district, the search for fried catfish led to an unforgettable culinary adventure. Amidst vibrant streets and the aroma of spices, the dish was a sensory delight. With its rich flavours and cultural significance, the meal served as a connection to Baghdad's history and traditions. This experience was more than just a meal; it was a heartfelt connection to the city and its people.
On a warm evening in Kolkata, my family and I visited the iconic Peter Cat Restaurant on Park Street. The vibrant, bustling street added to the excitement. Inside, the vintage decor set the mood for the much-anticipated Chelo Kabab, a Persian-inspired dish. The meal was a delightful blend of buttered rice, succulent kababs, and a poached egg, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. Our evening at Peter Cat was an unforgettable culinary and historical journey, leaving us eager for the next visit.
Kahi, the national breakfast of Iraq, consists of buttery, flaky pastry layers served with rich geymar, a thick clotted cream made from water buffalo milk. This breakfast dish is typically accompanied by honey, date molasses, or syrup, creating a decadent experience. The combination of crunchy Kahi and creamy geymar offers a luxurious flavor profile, representing a cherished aspect of Iraqi culinary tradition that's truly satisfying and unforgettable.
Experiencing Iraqi cuisine in Baghdad offered a profound connection to its history and culture, epitomized by the iconic dish Kubbah Saray. As I savored this royal-inspired food at Kubbat al-Baghdady, the blend of spices and textures spoke of Iraq’s rich heritage, from the Abbasid Caliphate to the Ottoman Empire. This culinary journey revealed the importance of food in fostering community and cultural understanding in Iraq.
