We’re spoilt for food choice in Saudi Arabia: from major Western fast-food chains, to  extravagant Asian cuisine and anything else imaginable..

It’s easy to sometimes forget that the local food here is indescribable at best. However, if you’re lucky enough to be friends with a local or if you enjoy cooking, passing up on the opportunity to try a Saudi home-cooked meal, is one you’ll always regret. 

And here’s why (JUST LOOK at that kabsa *cries*)

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1. Kabsa all day, all night

Because it’s that versatile. Rice, meat and vegetables- it’s really all anyone needs. 

2. Mandi, food for the soul

And the rushed, or the budget-friendly. There’s chicken and the even better lamb version, yummmm.

3. Wheat/ Grain Soup or شوربة الحب

Perfect for suhoor or during the month of Ramadan

4. Magloooba

It means ‘upside-down’, basically made with rice and vegetables and sometimes with chicken but served upside-down. Popular all over the Middle East.

5. KABLI Rice 

Well this one may have more of an Afghani root, but the Saudis have customised it in a way that’ll burst your tastebuds with flavour. 

6. Saleek – the Saudi version of a risotto

Yep. Lighter too.

7. Margoog 

A delicious sauce that has meat, veggies, and a type of flour paste. It can be eaten with white rice or khubz, or beautifully on its own.

8. Mathlotha 

We haven’t tried this one out, but only heard good things about it. It’s a dish, mostly popular in the South of Saudi Arabia, and it’s mixed with Gurshan, Kabsa and Jereesh. 

I mean, that’s a triple-threat. 

Which ones have you tried? What’s your favorite local dish?

Let us know in the comment section below