Iconic Middle Eastern Rice Dishes That Delight Globally

Nov30,2024

A spiced rice dish often cooked with lamb, chicken, or fish, flavored with cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron. It's a celebratory staple in Saudi Arabian cuisine.

Kabsa (Saudi Arabia)  

Meaning "upside-down," this dish layers rice, vegetables, and meat, which are flipped to reveal a stunning arrangement when served.

Maqluba (Levant)

Known for its vibrant colors, this dish is enriched with saffron, barberries, pistachios, and orange zest, making it a feast for the eyes and palate.

Persian Jeweled Rice (Iran)

A sweet and savory rice dish mixed with candied orange peel, carrots, almonds, and raisins, often served at weddings and special occasions.

Shirin Polo (Iran) 

A versatile dish found across the Middle East, pilaf includes rice cooked with meat, vegetables, and a variety of spices, such as cumin and coriander.

Pilaf (Regional)

A hearty and satisfying street food staple, kushari combines rice, lentils, and macaroni, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions.

Kushari (Egypt) 

Though its roots lie in South Asia, Middle Eastern flavors influence biryani, combining fragrant rice with meat, nuts, and dried fruits.

Biryani (Middle Eastern Influence on South Asia) 

Though its roots lie in South Asia, Middle Eastern flavors influence biryani, combining fragrant rice with meat, nuts, and dried fruits.

Biryani (Middle Eastern Influence on South Asia)