Bahrain, a small island nation located in the Arabian Gulf, is not only known for its rich history and vibrant culture but also for its diverse and delectable cuisine. With influences from Arabic, Persian, Indian, and even East Asian culinary traditions, Bahrain offers a unique and tantalizing food scene. In this article, we explore the top 10 most eaten foods in Bahrain that showcase the country’s culinary delight.
- Machbous:
Machbous is Bahrain’s national dish, and it is a flavorful combination of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a medley of aromatic spices such as saffron, turmeric, and cardamom. The dish is often garnished with fried onions and served with a side of yogurt or salad. Machbous is a hearty and comforting meal enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
- Shawarma:
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food that has found a special place in Bahraini cuisine. It consists of marinated meat (typically chicken or lamb) roasted on a vertical spit, sliced thinly, and wrapped in a warm pita bread along with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables. The result is a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures that is hard to resist.
- Harees:
Harees is a traditional Bahraini dish often prepared during special occasions such as Ramadan or weddings. It is made by slow-cooking wheat and meat (usually chicken or lamb) until they form a thick porridge-like consistency. Harees is seasoned with spices and often garnished with ghee (clarified butter) and cinnamon, resulting in a rich and creamy dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
- Samboosa:
Similar to the popular Indian snack samosa, samboosa is a beloved Bahraini appetizer. These triangular pastries are filled with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, then deep-fried to a golden crisp. Samboosas are commonly enjoyed as a snack or as part of an appetizer platter during gatherings.
- Bahraini Fish Machbous:
Given its coastal location, Bahrain is renowned for its fresh seafood. Bahraini fish machbous is a delightful variation of the traditional machbous dish, where the meat is substituted with locally caught fish such as hamour or kingfish. The fish is marinated in spices, then cooked with rice, resulting in a fragrant and flavorful seafood delicacy.
- Muhammar:
Muhammar is a sweet and savory rice dish that is typically enjoyed during festive occasions. The dish is made by slow-cooking rice with sugar, spices such as saffron and cardamom, and garnishing it with fried onions, raisins, and nuts. Muhammar’s unique combination of flavors makes it a delightful addition to Bahraini cuisine.
- Balaleet:
Balaleet is a traditional Bahraini breakfast dish that showcases the influence of Indian and Persian culinary traditions. It consists of sweet vermicelli noodles cooked with saffron, cardamom, rose water, and garnished with fried eggs. Balaleet strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and warmth, making it a popular choice for starting the day.
- Majboos Laham:
Majboos Laham, also known as lamb majboos, is a tantalizing rice and meat dish that highlights Bahraini cuisine’s robust flavors. It features tender pieces of lamb cooked with a blend of spices, including turmeric, cinnamon, and black lime. The meat is then combined with fragrant rice, creating a dish that is rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
- Grilled Kingfish:
Grilled kingfish is a simple yet incredibly delicious seafood dish loved by Bahrainis. Fresh kingfish fillets are marinated in spices and grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and flavorful fish that is often enjoyed with rice, salad, or Bahraini flatbread.
- Muhallabia:
To end our culinary journey in Bahrain, we cannot forget to mention Muhallabia, a popular dessert made from ground rice, milk, sugar, and flavored with rose or orange blossom water. This creamy and aromatic dessert is often garnished with pistachios or almonds, providing a delightful finish to any meal.
Bahrain’s cuisine is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage, blending flavors and techniques from various traditions. From traditional rice dishes like machbous and harees to popular street foods like shawarma and samboosa, Bahrain offers a diverse and enticing array of culinary delights. Exploring the top 10 most eaten foods in Bahrain provides a glimpse into the country’s vibrant food scene and leaves visitors craving for more of its delicious fare. So, whether you’re a food enthusiast or an adventurous traveler, be sure to indulge in these delightful Bahraini dishes and savor the flavors of this captivating island nation.
