|
|
|
You can get e-magazine links on WhatsApp. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dubai world culinary: Exploring the world through food
|
|
Wednesday, 18 October, 2023, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
|
|
Dr P A Raajeswari & R Krithika
|
Dubai, the glittering gem of United Arab Emirates, is a city renowned for its breathtaking architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and diverse culture. Welcome to Dubai's World Cuisine, where culinary traditions from every corner of the world converge to create a unique dining experience like no other.Dubai's status as a global hub for business and tourism has attracted people from all over the world, resulting in rich cultures and cuisines.
1. Emirati Cuisine:“A Taste of Tradition in Dubai”
Emirati cuisine is a culinary treasure that reflects the rich heritage and traditions of the United Arab Emirates, with its heart and soul deeply rooted in the desert culture of the Arabian Peninsula
Signature Dishes:Al Harrees, AlMachboos, Luqaimat, Balaleet and Majboos
2. Arabic Delights: “Exploring the Culinary Treasures of the Middle East”
Dubai's Arabic cuisine goes beyond the local fare. Indulge in mouthwatering kebabs, falafel, and shawarmas at countless street-side stalls and upscale restaurants. For an authentic experience, a famous restaurant like Al Nafoorah or Zaroob, located in Jumeirah Zabeel, where the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts is available.
Signature Dishes:Hummus, Shawarma, Falafel, Moutabal, Mansaf and Kebabs
3. Asian Influences: “A Culinary Odyssey in Dubai”
Dubai's food scene is diverse, just like its people. One of the most noticeable parts of this mix is the way Dubai has adopted Asian cuisine. It is like a colourful mosaic of flavours, ingredients, and smells that Asian cooking has brought to the city. From spicy Thai dishes to delicate Japanese sushi, Dubai's Asian food choices cover a wide range, and they show how different cultures have influenced the city's food culture. It's like taking a delicious journey across Asia without leaving Dubai.
Signature Dishes: Sushi and Sashimi, Pad thai, Dim Sum, Biryani, Szechuan cuisine, Sushi Burritos and Poke Bowls.
4. European Elegance: “Savouring Continental Flair in Dubai”
In Dubai, fancy restaurants serve delicious European food. Taste of French dishes at Pierchic, enjoy Italian favourites at Roberto's, or have Spanish tapas at Salero Tapas and Bodega. It is a great way to experience the flavours of Europe while in Dubai.
Signature Dishes: French Cuisine, Italian Classics, Spanish Tapas, Mediterranean Cuisine and German Delights.
5. Global Fusion: “Culinary Innovation in Dubai”
Dubai's global fusion cuisine scene combines flavours from around the world, creating exciting dishes that blend different culinary traditions into one delightful culinary adventure.
Signature Dishes: Sushi Burritos, Mexican-Korean Tacos, Indian-Chinese Fusion, Mediterranean-inspired pizzas, and Arabic-Japanese Fusion.
Ionic Dining Destinations
Dubai's world cuisine is not just about the variety of dishes; it is also about the unforgettable dining experiences with wonderful ambiance Here are some iconic dining destinations you should not miss:
1. At.mosphere: Located on the 122nd floor of the BurjKhalifa, At.mosphere is the world's highest restaurant. Enjoy gourmet cuisine with panoramic views of the city's skyline.
2. Pierchic: Set on a pier extending into the Arabian Gulf, Pierchic is known for its seafood and romantic ambiance. It is the perfect spot for a special occasion.
3. The Arabian Tea House: A charming oasis in the heart of the Al Fahidi Historic District, this restaurant serves traditional Emirati and Arabian dishes in a picturesque courtyard setting.
4. Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant: Located atop the Hyatt Regency Dubai, Al Dawaar offers a 360-degree view of the city as you dine on international cuisine.
5. Global Village: For a taste of the world in one place, visit the Global Village. This cultural and entertainment destination features pavilions from over 90 countries, each offering their native cuisines.
Dubai's world cuisine scene is incredibly diverse, offering a wide range of dishes from various cuisines around the globe. Here is a list of some famous foods and dishes you must try when exploring Dubai's culinary delights:
Al Harees: A traditional Emirati dish made from slow-cooked wheat and meat, often enjoyed during Ramadan and special occasions.
Al Machboos: A fragrant spiced rice dish typically prepared with lamb or chicken and served with a side of sauce.
Shawarma: A popular street food, shawarma consists of thinly sliced marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) served in flatbread with a variety of toppings and sauces.
Falafel: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in sandwiches or as part of a mezze platter.
Kebabs: Various types of kebabs, including shish kebabs, seekh kebabs, and kofta, are widely available in Dubai, usually served with flatbread and a variety of sauces.
Hummus: A creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.
Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made from finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Biryani: A flavourful rice dish cooked with spices and either chicken, lamb, or seafood, often garnished with fried onions and served with raita.
Sushi: Dubai boasts an excellent selection of sushi restaurants offering fresh and creative Japanese sushi and sashimi.
Dim Sum: Chinese restaurants in Dubai serve a variety of dim sum, including dumplings, buns, and small plates, often enjoyed during traditional yum cha sessions.
Pizza: Italian cuisine is well-represented, and you can find a wide range of pizzas, from traditional margheritas to gourmet creations.
Tagine: Moroccan cuisine is popular in Dubai, and tagine, a slow-cooked stew typically made with lamb or chicken and flavoured with spices and preserved lemons, is a must-try.
Tandoori: Indian cuisine is celebrated in Dubai, and tandoori dishes like tandoori chicken, naan bread, and various kebabs are widely available.
Paella: Spanish restaurants in Dubai serve flavourful paella dishes, with options like seafood paella and chicken and chorizo paella.
Baklava: A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey, a popular dessert in Dubai.
Kunafa: Another delicious Middle Eastern dessert, kunafa features thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and often layered with cheese or nuts.
Luqaimat: Deep-fried sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup or honey, often served as a dessert during festivals and celebrations.
Chai Karak: A strong, spiced tea made with condensed milk, often enjoyed in small tea shops and street stalls.
Camel Milk Products: Dubai offers a unique opportunity to taste camel milk in various forms, including camel milk ice cream and camel milk chocolates.
Global Fusion Creations: Don't miss out on Dubai's innovative fusion cuisine, where chefs blend flavours from different culinary traditions to create unique and exciting dishes.
Dubai's food scene is a true reflection of its cosmopolitan and multicultural identity, ensuring that there's something to satisfy every palate, from traditional Emirati dishes to international delights.
This culinary exploration in Dubai showcases the power of food to bridge cultures and promote the understanding among people from different backgrounds. It is not just about the delightful dishes but also the stories, traditions, and experiences that come with them. The city's commitment to culinary excellence and innovation has made it a magnet for talented chefs and food entrepreneurs from around the world, resulting in a wide and dynamic food scene.
Moreover, Dubai's World Culinary scene is a testament to the city's unwavering dedication to providing a memorable experience for both residents and visitors. The fusion of global cuisines in Dubai is not just a testament to its multicultural society but also a reflection of its openness to new ideas and its determination to be a global culinary leader.
(Dr Raajeswari is associate professor, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore; Krithika is research scholar, Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women, Coimbatore)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|