Taste the Magic of Dubai Now: 12 Iconic Recipes

Discover the rich and diverse flavors of Dubai with our selection of 12 iconic recipes. These dishes have been carefully chosen to showcase the culinary magic of this vibrant city. So, prepare your taste buds, and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through Dubai’s traditional and modern food scene. From savory meat dishes to delectable desserts, there’s a flavor for everyone to enjoy. These recipes are perfect for those looking to expand their culinary horizons or simply experience a taste of Dubai from the comfort of their own home. Bon appétit!

#1. Chicken Shawarma (500 calories per serving):

Experience the street food magic of Dubai with this mouthwatering Chicken Shawarma recipe. Tender, juicy chicken is marinated in aromatic spices and grilled to perfection, then wrapped in warm pita bread with crisp veggies and a tangy garlic sauce. A perfect meal to share with friends and family, this Chicken Shawarma is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground turmeric
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 pita breads
• 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small tomato, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup garlic sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Recipe:

1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. Warm pita breads on the grill or in the oven, then assemble shawarmas by layering sliced chicken, cucumber, red onion, tomato, and lettuce. Drizzle with garlic sauce and serve immediately.

#2. Lamb Kofta with Tzatziki (450 calories per serving):

Savor the exquisite flavors of the Middle East with these succulent Lamb Koftas paired with a refreshing Tzatziki sauce. This dish combines ground lamb with a blend of aromatic spices, grilled to perfection and served with a cool, cucumber-infused yogurt sauce. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these Lamb Koftas are sure to impress.

Ingredients: Lamb Kofta:

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 small cucumber, grated and squeezed to remove excess water
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground lamb, onion, garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and allspice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well and form into 8 equal-sized oval patties.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the lamb koftas for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred on the outside.
3. For the Tzatziki sauce, combine Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill in a small bowl. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
4. Serve the Lamb Koftas with Tzatziki sauce on the side, accompanied by warm pita bread, salad, or rice.

#3. Spiced Lentil Soup (300 calories per serving):

Warm up with a bowl of this comforting Spiced Lentil Soup, a staple in Dubai cuisine. This hearty, protein-packed soup features earthy red lentils simmered with a medley of aromatic spices, tomatoes, and carrots. Enjoy a steaming bowl of this nourishing soup with a side of crusty bread or rice for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground paprika
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Recipe:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Stir in carrot, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until spices are fragrant.
3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Season soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or parsley.

#4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolma) (250 calories per serving):

Delight your taste buds with these tender, flavor-packed Stuffed Grape Leaves, a popular appetizer in Dubai. This traditional recipe features a delicious filling of spiced rice and ground meat, wrapped in tender grape leaves and simmered in a lemony broth. Serve these Dolmas as a delectable starter, or as part of a mezze platter alongside other Middle Eastern favorites.

Ingredients:

• 40 grape leaves, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup uncooked short-grain rice
• 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Broth:

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, combine rice, ground meat, onion, parsley, mint, dill, olive oil, cumin, and allspice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine.
2. Lay a grape leaf, shiny side down, on a flat surface. Place a heaping teaspoon of the rice mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll up tightly, taking care not to overfill or wrap too tightly, as the rice will expand during cooking.
3. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling.
4. Line the bottom of a large pot with any remaining or torn grape leaves. Arrange the stuffed grape leaves seam-side down in the pot, packing them tightly in layers.
5. Combine chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Season with salt to taste. Pour the broth mixture over the stuffed grape leaves until they are just covered.
6. Place a heatproof plate or small lid on top of the grape leaves to keep them submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 45-60 minutes, or until rice is cooked and grape leaves are tender.
7. Allow dolmas to cool slightly in the pot before transferring them to a serving platter. Serve warm or at room temperature with lemon wedges and yogurt sauce, if desired.

#5. Umm Ali (Bread Pudding) (450 calories per serving):

Indulge in the sweet, comforting flavors of Umm Ali, a popular Egyptian-inspired bread pudding in Dubai. This delectable dessert features flaky pastry soaked in a spiced milk mixture, topped with nuts, raisins, and shredded coconut, and baked to golden perfection. Enjoy a warm slice of Umm Ali, topped with a dollop of whipped cream, for a truly satisfying dessert experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb puff pastry, thawed and cut into squares
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Recipe:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the puff pastry squares on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed. Allow to cool, then crumble or cut into smaller pieces.
2. In a saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved and the mixture is steaming but not boiling.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the crumbled puff pastry. Sprinkle with half of the raisins, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and shredded coconut. Repeat with the remaining pastry and toppings.
4. Pour the spiced milk mixture evenly over the pastry layers, making sure all pieces are soaked. Allow to sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
5. Bake the Umm Ali in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set.
6. Allow the Umm Ali to cool slightly before serving. Top with whipped cream, if desired, and enjoy this deliciously warm and comforting dessert.

#6. Shish Tawook (400 calories per serving):

Bring the flavors of Dubai’s bustling streets to your kitchen with this delectable Shish Tawook recipe. Tender, marinated chicken cubes are skewered and grilled to perfection, resulting in a smoky, succulent dish that pairs perfectly with a side of rice, salad, or pita bread. Gather your family and friends, and let the enticing aroma of Shish Tawook fill your home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

Recipe:

1. In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, tomato paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
4. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the Shish Tawook skewers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with rice, salad, pita bread, or your favorite side dishes.

#7. Falafel (350 calories per serving):

Experience the authentic taste of Dubai with this scrumptious Falafel recipe. These crispy, golden brown chickpea fritters are packed with flavor and make a delicious appetizer or main course when served with pita bread and fresh vegetables. Gather your ingredients and prepare to be transported to the bustling markets of Dubai with every bite of these delightful Falafel.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Recipe:

1. In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. Process until a coarse paste forms, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
2. Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl and stir in the baking soda. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a deep frying pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C). Using a falafel scoop or your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties.
4. Carefully lower the falafel into the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.
5. Use a slotted spoon to remove the falafel from the oil and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
6. Serve the falafel hot with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, and fresh vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.

#8. Tabouleh Salad (200 calories per serving):

Refresh your palate with this vibrant and healthy Tabouleh Salad, a popular dish in Dubai cuisine. This delightful salad features a mix of finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions, combined with fluffy bulgur wheat and a tangy lemon dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this Tabouleh Salad is a must-try for those seeking a taste of Dubai.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
• 1 1/2 cups boiling water
• 4 cups chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 3 medium tomatoes, finely diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Recipe:

1. In a large bowl, combine the bulgur wheat and boiling water. Cover and let stand for 20-30 minutes, or until the bulgur has absorbed the water and is tender. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool.
2. Add the chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and red onion to the cooled bulgur wheat. Toss to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Tabouleh Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.

#9. Hummus (250 calories per serving):

Experience the smooth, creamy goodness of homemade Hummus, a popular dip in Dubai and throughout the Middle East. Made from mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this delectable dip is perfect for spreading on pita bread, dipping vegetables, or as a base for wraps and sandwiches. Whip up a batch of this Hummus, and watch it become a staple in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1/3 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed
• Paprika and chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Recipe:

1. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and cumin. Season with salt to taste.
2. Process the mixture until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, if necessary, to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil. Sprinkle with paprika and chopped parsley, if desired, for garnish.
4. Serve the hummus with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.

#10. Baba Ghanoush (200 calories per serving):

Dive into the smoky, creamy flavors of Baba Ghanoush, a beloved eggplant dip in Dubai cuisine. This delightful appetizer features roasted eggplant blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a smooth and satisfying dish. Serve Baba Ghanoush with pita bread or fresh vegetables for a delicious and healthy addition to your next gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick the eggplants all over with a fork and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Roast the eggplants for 45-60 minutes, or until tender and the skin is wrinkled.
2. Remove the eggplants from the oven and let them cool until they are safe to handle. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a bowl. Discard the skin.
3. In a food processor, combine the eggplant flesh, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and cumin. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the Baba Ghanoush to a serving bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve the Baba Ghanoush with pita bread or fresh vegetables for dipping.

#11. Chicken Machboos (550 calories per serving):

Treat your taste buds to the rich, aromatic flavors of Chicken Machboos, a popular one-pot rice dish in Dubai. This satisfying meal features tender chicken pieces cooked with a medley of fragrant spices, vegetables, and basmati rice, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. Gather around the table and enjoy a family-style serving of Chicken Machboos.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
• 2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Recipe:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Stir in the chicken pieces, browning them on all sides. Add the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, green bell pepper, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon. Cook for a few minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Drain the soaked basmati rice and add it to the pot, stirring to combine with the chicken and spices. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Fluff the Chicken Machboos with a fork and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve the Chicken Machboos hot, and enjoy a delicious taste of Dubai with your family and friends.

#12. Kunafa (500 calories per serving):

End your culinary journey through Dubai on a sweet note with this irresistible Kunafa recipe. This Middle Eastern dessert features a layer of creamy, sweet cheese sandwiched between two layers of crispy, golden brown shredded phyllo dough, all soaked in a fragrant sugar syrup. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of Kunafa, and experience the magic of Dubai in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a combination of mozzarella and ricotta)
• 1/2 cup chopped pistachios, for garnish (optional)

Sugar Syrup:

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp rosewater or orange blossom water

Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded phyllo dough with the melted butter, mixing well to ensure the dough is evenly coated.
3. Press half of the buttered phyllo dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the shredded cheese evenly over the dough.
4. Cover the cheese layer with the remaining buttered phyllo dough, pressing gently to compact the layers.
5. Bake the Kunafa for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
6. While the Kunafa is baking, prepare the sugar syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the rosewater or orange blossom water.
7. Once the Kunafa is removed from the oven, immediately pour the sugar syrup evenly over the hot pastry, allowing it to soak in.
8. Allow the Kunafa to cool slightly before cutting it into squares or diamond shapes. Garnish with chopped pistachios, if desired, and serve warm or at room temperature.

With these 12 iconic recipes, you can now bring the magic of Dubai’s flavors to your kitchen. Share these delicious dishes with your loved ones and create unforgettable memories while exploring the culinary wonders of Dubai.

Top 3 FAQ’s and Answers Dubai Cuisine:

1. What are some common spices used in Dubai cuisine?

Dubai cuisine features a variety of fragrant spices that add depth and flavor to the dishes. Some common spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, cardamom, and cinnamon. These spices are often combined in unique ways to create complex and delicious flavor profiles in dishes like Chicken Machboos and Shish Tawook.

2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan dishes in Dubai cuisine?

Yes, Dubai cuisine offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options. Some popular dishes include Falafel, Hummus, Tabouleh Salad, and Baba Ghanoush. These dishes are made from plant-based ingredients like chickpeas, vegetables, and grains, making them suitable for those following vegetarian or vegan diets. For more vegan Middle Eastern recipes, check out these delicious options.

3. How can I make these Dubai recipes healthier?

To make these recipes healthier, you can try using whole grain alternatives for rice or wheat-based ingredients, reducing the amount of oil or butter used in cooking, and incorporating more vegetables into the dishes. For example, you can use brown basmati rice in Chicken Machboos or whole wheat pita bread with Hummus. Additionally, consider baking or grilling instead of frying, as seen in the Shish Tawook recipe.

And there you have it, folks! These 12 iconic recipes will transport you straight to the heart of Dubai, without the hassle of packing a suitcase or dealing with jet lag. Just imagine indulging in mouthwatering Shish Tawook or digging into a luscious slice of Kunafa right from the comfort of your own home. So, what are you waiting for? Tie on your apron, channel your inner chef, and get ready to experience the flavors of Dubai in your very own kitchen.

Oh, and if these recipes have you yearning for the real deal, why not check out 15 Reasons Why You Should Get Ready for the Ultimate Dubai Experience? This fantastic guide will have you booking a flight and counting down the days until you can savor these delicious dishes in their homeland. But until then, happy cooking and bon appétit!