Must-try Dishes
Foul Medames - Foul (savory breakfast dish) - This hearty dish consists of slow-cooked fava beans seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice, often served with a side of fresh pita. Locals enjoy it for breakfast, sometimes topped with a drizzle of spicy sauce, happily chatting over their morning coffee.
Shawarma - شاورما (popular street food) - Flavorful marinated meat, usually chicken or lamb, wrapped in warm, soft pita with garlic sauce and pickles. You’ll find locals munching on shawarma from food trucks, especially during late-night outings for a quick yet satisfying bite.
Machboos - مكبوس (spiced rice dish) - A fragrant rice dish cooked with marinated meat (or fish) and a blend of spices, similar to biryani, giving it a warm, fluffy texture. Often served at family gatherings, it's a go-to for dinner, and I love that everyone dives in together from one large platter.
Sayadiya - صيادية (seafood specialty) - A beautifully aromatic dish made with seasoned fish and rice, cooked with caramelized onions and spices that enhance its coastal flavors. This is often prepared during special occasions and is best enjoyed alongside a refreshing salad.
Prawn Masala - روبيان مسالا (surprising combination) - Juicy prawns cooked in a zesty tomato and onion sauce with fragrant spices, served alongside rice or flatbread. Locals often enjoy it during family feasts, and it's a delight every time I dig into the spicy tanginess.
Harira - حريرة (seasonal soup) - A nutritious soup filled with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and tender meat, popular especially during Ramadan. It’s best enjoyed at iftar time, where families come together to break their fast, and I love how it warms the spirit after a long day.
Harees - هريس (traditional dish) - A blend of wheat and meat that’s slow-cooked until creamy and smooth, creating a comforting porridge-like meal. Commonly served during Ramadan or special occasions, it’s often eaten with a dollop of ghee on top, highlighting its rich taste.
Desserts & Drinks
Arabic Coffee - قهوة (spiced Arabic coffee) - A delightful blend of lightly roasted Arabic coffee brewed with cardamom and occasionally saffron. Served in small cups throughout the day, especially during social gatherings, with a customary pouring ritual from a traditional dallah (pitcher).
Jallab - جلاب (date and raisin drink) - A refreshing mixture of dates, raisins, and tamarind, often served over crushed ice and garnished with pine nuts. It's a popular thirst-quencher during hot months, particularly during Ramadan's iftar meals—perfect for breaking your fast!
Palm Wine - نخلة (fermented date beverage) - An alcoholic beverage made from the sap of date palms, sweet and slightly tangy. It's served fresh, usually at special gatherings or celebrations, and is often accompanied by a bit of conversation about the harvest.
Knafeh - كُنافة (sweet pastry dessert) - A rich dessert made with shredded phyllo dough soaked in syrup and filled with gooey cheese or cream. Typically enjoyed during festive occasions or special family gatherings, it's served warm with a dusting of pistachios—don’t be surprised if it’s served in a large tray for sharing!
Banana Splits - بانانا سبليت (frozen sundae) - A cold dessert featuring a split banana topped with scoops of ice cream, chocolate syrup, and nuts. This cream-filled treat is particularly popular after sunset during the summer, often enjoyed at the beach with family to cool off—a true local family favorite!
By the way, be prepared for a bit of competition for the best seating during the evening breeze at popular spots—it’s all part of the local charm!
