Saudi Arabian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, aromas, and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
From hearty rice dishes to fragrant stews and decadent desserts, the food of Saudi Arabia is a celebration of culture and hospitality.
If you’re a foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons, you’re in for a treat.
Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
We’ve rounded up the best Saudi Arabian recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to recreate in your kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something new, these dishes will transport you straight to the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. Let’s dive in!
1. Kabsa The King of Saudi Dishes
Kabsa is often called the national dish of Saudi Arabia, and for good reason.
This fragrant rice dish is a showstopper, featuring tender meat, aromatic spices, and a medley of vegetables.
It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 1 lb chicken, lamb, or beef
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cardamom pods
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
How to Make It:
Start by heating oil in a large pot and sautéing the onions until golden. Add the meat and brown it on all sides.
Toss in the garlic, tomatoes, carrots, and spices, and cook until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste and broth, then let the meat simmer until tender.
Add the rice, cover, and cook on low heat until the rice is fluffy and fully cooked.
Why We Chose It:
Kabsa is a must-try because it’s the epitome of Saudi Arabian hospitality.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and brings people together. Plus, the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water.
2. Mutabbaq A Flaky, Stuffed Delight
Mutabbaq is a popular street food in Saudi Arabia that’s crispy on the outside and packed with savory goodness on the inside.
Think of it as a Middle Eastern version of a stuffed pancake or flatbread.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 egg
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix flour, water, and egg to form a smooth dough. Divide it into small balls and roll them out into thin circles.
For the filling, cook the meat with onions, spices, and chilies until well-done.
Place a spoonful of filling on one half of the dough circle, fold it over, and seal the edges. Fry until golden and crispy.
Why We Chose It:
Mutabbaq is a versatile snack that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
3. Jareesh A Creamy Comfort Food
Jareesh is a traditional Saudi dish made from crushed wheat and meat. It’s creamy, hearty, and incredibly comforting—perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups crushed wheat
- 1 lb chicken or lamb
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups water or broth
- 2 tbsp ghee or butter
How to Make It:
Cook the meat with onions, garlic, and spices until tender.
Add the crushed wheat and water, then simmer until the mixture thickens and the wheat is soft. Stir in ghee or butter for extra richness.
Why We Chose It:
Jareesh is a unique dish that showcases the simplicity and heartiness of Saudi cuisine. It’s a bowl of pure comfort.
4. Haneeth Slow-Cooked Perfection
Haneeth is a slow-cooked meat dish that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. It’s often served during special occasions and celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lamb or goat meat
- 2 tbsp haneeth spice mix (cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, black lime)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
How to Make It:
Marinate the meat with spices, garlic, and tomato paste for at least 2 hours.
Place it in a pot with water and cook on low heat for 3-4 hours until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
Why We Chose It:
Haneeth is a celebration of slow cooking and bold flavors. It’s a dish that’s worth the wait.
5. Saleeg Creamy Rice Porridge
Saleeg is a creamy rice dish that’s similar to risotto but with a Saudi twist. It’s often topped with tender meat and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups short-grain rice
- 4 cups milk
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb chicken, cooked and shredded
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Cook the rice in milk and broth until creamy. Stir in butter and shredded chicken, then season with salt and pepper.
Why We Chose It:
Saleeg is a comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. It’s creamy, rich, and utterly delicious.
6. Tamiya Saudi-Style Falafel
Tamiya is a Saudi take on falafel, made with fava beans and herbs. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fava beans, soaked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 cup parsley
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Blend all ingredients into a coarse paste. Form into small patties and fry until golden.
Why We Chose It:
Tamiya is a tasty, vegetarian-friendly option that’s perfect for snacking or as part of a meal.
7. Margoog A Hearty Stew
Margoog is a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and dough pieces. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken or lamb
- 2 cups diced vegetables (zucchini, carrots, potatoes)
- 4 cups broth
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Cook the meat and vegetables in broth with spices. Mix flour with water to form a dough, tear into small pieces, and add to the stew. Simmer until cooked through.
Why We Chose It:
Margoog is a wholesome dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
8. Samboosa Saudi-Style Samosas
Samboosa is a crispy, savory pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables. It’s a popular snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Spring roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Cook the meat with onions and spices. Fill the wrappers, fold into triangles, and fry until crispy.
Why We Chose It:
Samboosa is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for parties or snacking.
9. Ma’amoul Date-Filled Cookies
Ma’amoul is a buttery, crumbly cookie filled with sweet date paste. It’s a beloved dessert in Saudi Arabia.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups semolina
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup date paste
How to Make It:
Mix semolina, butter, and sugar to form a dough. Fill with date paste, shape into cookies, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Why We Chose It:
Ma’amoul is a sweet treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
10. Shakshuka A Flavorful Egg Dish
Shakshuka is a dish of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce. It’s a popular breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How to Make It:
Sauté onions, garlic, and tomatoes with spices. Crack eggs into the sauce, cover, and cook until the eggs are set.
Why We Chose It:
Shakshuka is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal.
11. Luqaimat Sweet Dumplings
Luqaimat are small, deep-fried dumplings drizzled with honey or syrup. They’re a popular dessert in Saudi Arabia.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp yeast
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup water
- Oil for frying
- Honey or syrup for drizzling
How to Make It:
Mix flour, yeast, sugar, and water to form a batter. Let it rise, then drop spoonfuls into hot oil. Fry until golden and drizzle with honey.
Why We Chose It:
Luqaimat are a sweet, indulgent treat that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabian cuisine is a feast for the senses, and these recipes are just the tip of the iceberg.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these dishes are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and start cooking!
Ready to explore more? Check out our other recipe guides and let us know which Saudi Arabian dish is your favorite!