How to eat like a local in Qatar
Qatari cuisine is delectable and packs a veritable mix of flavors from different regions across the world such as Africa, India, and Mediterranean countries. But what exactly do the locals eat? And what are the dining secrets that make local food taste its best? In this brief guide, we discuss how to eat like a local in Qatar.
What do locals eat in Qatar?
Arguably, Majboos is the most loved dish in Qatar. This wholesome dish is made with rice, vegetables, meat and infused with spices. Then there is camel meat, which goes either in your Majboos or gets wrapped in shawarma. But first, the meat is cooked for a while to get that tender texture. Fatayer is another popular dish; a type of pie made with spinach, meat and cheese. You can order these dishes wherever you go in Qatar whether you are at restaurants based in serviced apartments in Doha or at street food markets. But, if you are lucky enough to visit a Qatari home, the first treat you will get would be a date. These nutrient-packed stone fruits come in a number of varieties.
What are the most famous dishes to eat out in Qatar?
Qataris have embraced various cuisines from across the world and even given some their own signature twist. Lebanese and Armenian dishes are rather popular in Qatar. They also love seafood dishes concocted with fresh catch. You can even select your own fresh catch and get the chefs to whip up some local delicacies. And grabbing a camel burger is a Qatari go-to dining option. And there are a large number of restaurants serving authentic Middle Eastern fare in Doha itself such as the Al Baraha restaurant at the Al Najada Doha Hotel Apartments by Oaks.
How to eat like a local – train your sweet tooth
Sweets and sugar-laden pastry are prevalent in Qatar. You can dig into the deep-fried pastry called qatayef, oozing with cheese and syrup. And, if you would rather avoid dairy, try the luqaimat, a sugary dumpling brimming with syrup. If your sweet tooth is somewhat low key, try oumm ali, a pudding from the Middle East, which translates into ‘Ali’s Mother.’ Then there is Mahalabia, a milk pudding, infused with rose- water and cardamom.
What to eat in Qatar – Madrouba
This savoury rice pudding is perfect for any meal. Chefs simmer a concoction of milk, loads of butter, chicken and some cardamom and sometimes even beans for hours to make this dish. Each chef adds his or her own touch to madrouba. You can expect toppings such as fried onion and cardamom ghee.
What to eat in Qatar – Warak enab
Stuffed vine leaves are ubiquitous in the Middle East. And the Qatari version of these is called warak enab. This version includes minced beef or lamb as well as rice. The stuffing is seasoned well with garlic, coriander and a dash of pepper to add a subtle kick. Don’t forget to squeeze lemon on your warak enab before eating it.
What to eat in Qatar – Saloona
This classic Arabic stew is comfort food to many locals. Families cook this for dinner. Each family would use whatever is available to cook saloona. But it generally starts with some meat such as beef or lamb or fish. Then, in goes the vegetables and generous bits of garlic and ginger. You can use chunks of bread to soak up the broth.
What to eat in Qatar - Kousa mahshi
Kousa mahshi is courgettes stuffed full of minced lamb, chopped vegetables, and parsley and mint. Some restaurants serve a chickpea version. And, you have to dip the stuffed courgette in yoghurt or tomato paste and let the crunchy, flavoursome goodness tease your tongue.
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