Qatar, with its rich culture and culinary heritage, offers a unique blend of traditional Arabic, Middle Eastern, and international flavours. As one of the most cosmopolitan regions in the Middle East, Qatar’s food scene is a delightful journey for anyone seeking authentic tastes and diverse dishes. Whether you’re a local food enthusiast or a traveler, here are the 10 must try dishes in Qatar that showcase its vibrant culinary traditions.
10 Amazing Dishes You Must Try When You’re In Qatar
1. Machboos
Machboos is often considered Qatar’s national dish and is a hearty and flavorful rice dish that’s similar to biryani or kabsa. It features spiced rice with chicken, lamb, or fish, along with a mixture of fragrant spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The dish is slow cooked to absorb all the flavors, resulting in tender meat and well-seasoned rice. Often garnished with nuts, dried fruits, or herbs, Machboos is a must-try for anyone wanting an authentic Qatari experience. Many restaurants serve this as a special item, but locals enjoy it as an everyday comfort food.
2. Harees
Harees is a popular dish especially enjoyed during the holy month of Ramadan. Made from wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb), Harees is cooked slowly until it becomes a creamy, porridge like consistency. This comforting dish is both filling and nutritious, often seasoned with cardamom and cinnamon to add a gentle warmth. Harees is typically enjoyed with a drizzle of ghee on top and is loved for its simplicity and soothing texture.
3. Thareed
Known as the “Arab lasagna,” Thareed is a stew that combines pieces of bread with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini, cooked in a spiced meat broth (often lamb or chicken). The bread soaks up the flavours of the stew, creating a comforting and rich dish with layers of textures. Thareed is especially popular during Ramadan and family gatherings and is one of the best examples of traditional Qatari comfort food.
4. Balaleet
Balaleet is a traditional Qatari breakfast dish that may surprise you with its unique mix of sweet and savory flavours. It consists of vermicelli noodles cooked with sugar, saffron, and cardamom, and it’s topped with a savory omelette. Balaleet offers a delightful contrast, the noodles are sweet, while the egg topping adds a savory balance. This unusual dish is often enjoyed during Eid and festive occasions, giving you a taste of Qatari breakfast tradition with a twist.
5. Madrouba
Madrouba is another Qatari comfort food made with mashed rice, chicken, and an assortment of spices like cardamom, cumin, and black pepper. It is simmered over low heat until it reaches a creamy, porridge like texture. Madrouba is served warm and is beloved for its hearty consistency, making it perfect for cooler days or a satisfying dinner. Each bite is filled with aromatic spices, and the dish is usually topped with a bit of butter or ghee for extra richness.
6. Luqaimat
Luqaimat is a popular Qatari dessert that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. These small, deep fried dough balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Traditionally, they are coated in date syrup or honey and sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds. Luqaimat is especially popular during Ramadan as an Iftar treat, but you’ll find them served at festivals and gatherings throughout the year. The rich sweetness and light crunch make them irresistible.
7. Saloona
Saloona is a traditional Qatari stew made with a mix of vegetables, including carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes, and a choice of meat like chicken, lamb, or fish. It’s seasoned with Arabic spices, which add a fragrant warmth to the dish. Saloona is often enjoyed with rice or bread and makes for a nutritious and flavourful meal. This dish is easy to find at local restaurants and is a great way to experience the depth of Qatari spices and cooking techniques.
8. Kousa Mahshi
Kousa Mahshi is a classic Middle Eastern stuffed vegetable dish, popular in Qatar and throughout the Gulf region. This dish features zucchinis hollowed out and filled with a mixture of rice, ground meat, and spices. The stuffed zucchinis are then cooked in a savoury tomato based sauce until tender. Each bite offers a mix of textures, from the soft zucchini to the flavourful rice and meat stuffing. Kousa Mahshi is a popular choice for special occasions and family gatherings.
9. Falafel
Although falafel is not exclusive to Qatar, it remains a must try for it’s unique regional twist. These deep fried balls made of ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices are served with tahini sauce, pickles, and sometimes a side of hummus. The Qatari version may be spiced with more traditional ingredients or served with unique condiments. Falafel is popular as a street food, served in pita bread wraps or as part of a mezze platter. It’s a delicious, vegetarian friendly option that’s both filling and full of flavour.
10. Stuffed Camel
For a unique and extravagant Qatari experience, stuffed camel is a dish steeped in cultural tradition. Although it’s not something you’ll find on everyday menus, this luxurious dish is prepared for large celebrations like weddings and festivals. The dish involves stuffing a whole camel with chicken, rice, eggs, and nuts, seasoned with spices. It’s a show stopping dish that highlights Qatar’s hospitality and culture, and if you’re lucky enough to be invited to an event where it’s served, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Why You Should Try Qatari Cuisine
Cultural Experience
Trying traditional Qatari dishes is a window into the local culture, heritage, and way of life. Each dish tells a story of local customs, traditions, and family gatherings, adding depth to your travel experience.
Diversity of Flavours
Qatari cuisine combines influences from Indian, Persian, and Levantine cuisines, resulting in dishes that are both rich and diverse. With the balance of spices and textures, each meal becomes an adventure in flavor.
Unique Ingredients
Qatar’s cuisine often features ingredients like dates, cardamom, saffron, and Arabic spices that bring warmth and aroma to dishes. These ingredients are integral to the Middle Eastern palate, and tasting them in their authentic setting is a treat.
Hospitality
Food is a significant part of Qatari hospitality. Local families take pride in their traditional recipes and love sharing them with guests. If you have the chance to dine in a local home or a traditional restaurant, the warmth and hospitality will make your experience even more memorable.
Qatar’s food scene is a fascinating blend of traditional and contemporary flavors that cater to all tastes. From savoury staples like Machboos and Thareed to sweet delights like Luqaimat, there’s something for every palate. With a mix of spices, traditional techniques, and local ingredients, Qatari dishes reflect the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.
So, when you visit Qatar, make sure to try these 10 must have dishes, each one promises an authentic taste of the region, bringing you closer to the heart of Qatari culture. Whether you’re a foodie or a curious traveler, these dishes will leave a lasting impression.
