3 Apr 2024
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, Dubai prepares for joyous celebrations filled with delicious food. The traditional dishes of this special day evoke a sense of togetherness and warmth, from the bold flavours of biryani to the sweetness of sheer khurma. To add a modern twist to the festivities, Dubai's diverse culinary scene offers fusion dishes that combine traditional and contemporary flavours. These must-try recipes showcase the city's vibrant food culture, from succulent lamb kebabs to delicate layers of baklava, and represent the diversity and unity that defines Eid al-Fitr in this dynamic city.
Ouzi
Aromatic and mouth-watering, Ouzi is a traditional Middle Eastern rice dish typically reserved for special occasions and celebrations. It features spiced minced meat and vegetables, often accompanied by puff pastry or phyllo dough. Ouzi's spices add depth to its already rich flavours, reflecting the region's diverse culinary history.
Preparing Ouzi is a labour of love, requiring skill and dedication, with careful attention paid to every detail and flavour combination. The use of top-quality ingredients is crucial in achieving an authentic and delicious Ouzi. To make this dish, you will need to prepare minced lamb, a bay leaf, and a cinnamon stick. You'll also need an array of spices, such as white and black pepper, cinnamon powder, and Arabic-mix spice. These ingredients are cooked together with rice and frozen carrots and peas to create a deliciously flavourful meal.
Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
Lamb Biryani
Originating from the Indian subcontinent, biryani has become a staple dish during Dubai's celebratory Eid al-Fitr feasts. This aromatic delicacy consists of layers of fragrant basmati rice infused with saffron, cardamom, cloves, and other tantalising spices, topped with succulent lamb pieces marinated in a blend of yoghurt and spices. The slow cooking process allows for a harmonious fusion of flavours, creating a truly exquisite dining experience.
Sheer Khurma
One of Dubai's classic desserts, commonly enjoyed during Eid celebrations, is sheer khurma. Thin vermicelli is cooked in sweetened milk until it becomes thick and velvety. Aromatic spices like cardamom are mixed in for flavour, and a variety of chopped nuts, such as cashews, pistachios, and almonds, are sprinkled on top. To enhance the sweetness and texture, dates or raisins are also often added to the dish.
Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
Chicken Mandi
During the festive Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Dubai, one of the most sought-after Arabian dishes is chicken mandi. This delectable dish features tender chicken pieces marinated with cumin, coriander, turmeric, and black pepper. The slow cooking process ensures that the chicken is cooked to perfection atop a bed of aromatic basmati rice. To add an extra layer of flavour, the dish is infused with charcoal smoke, creating a distinctive and alluring aroma.
Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
Luqaimat
A beloved delicacy in the United Arab Emirates, luqaimat is often served during special occasions such as Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Dubai. These small dumplings are made with a simple mixture of flour, yeast, sugar, and water before being fried to a golden, crispy perfection. Once they are cooked, luqaimat are typically coated in a sweet syrup flavoured with saffron or rose water and sugar.
Photo: Nadir Hashmi
Stuffed Vine Leaves (Warak Enab)
Stuffed grape leaves, known as warak enab, are a popular appetiser in Dubai's food culture. They are often served during Eid al-Fitr festivities. These delicate grape leaves are stuffed with a savoury blend of rice, onions, minced beef, and a unique combination of spices, including cinnamon and mint. The folded packages are then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce until they reach the perfect texture.
Photo: Işıl
Maamoul
Maamoul is a beloved treat in Middle Eastern culture, particularly during celebrations like Eid al-Fitr. These delicate shortbread cookies are typically filled with a sweet blend of dates and nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios, and may also have hints of orange blossom or rose water. The dough is carefully moulded into intricate shapes using wooden moulds before being baked to a perfect golden hue.
Image: Midjourney x The Sandy Times
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