TGIT!
A great end to my first full week. So grateful for great colleagues and the opportunity to learn about this incredible country.
We were treated to some local markets with incredible selections of fruits and vegetables from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and more.
Our host then treated us to a traditional Saudi dinner. Saudi Arabian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, influenced by the country's diverse history and cultural heritage. From aromatic spices to succulent meats and fragrant rice dishes, a traditional Saudi Arabian meal is a feast for the senses. A few of my observations:
The Art of Hospitality: Hospitality is an integral part of Saudi Arabian culture, and it is reflected in the way meals are prepared and shared. When you are invited to a Saudi meal, you will be welcomed with warmth and generosity. Prepare to be treated like royalty as you experience the genuine Arabian hospitality.
The Starters: A typical Saudi Arabian meal often begins with a selection of appetizers known as "maza." These small dishes are meant to stimulate the appetite and tantalize the taste buds. Some popular maza include hummus, moutabal (smoky eggplant dip), falafel, and tabbouleh (a refreshing salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat). These appetizers are often served with freshly baked flatbread, called tamees. The serving we had was HUGE!
The Main Course: The centerpiece of a traditional Saudi Arabian meal were succulent meat dishes. Lamb, beef and chicken marinated in a blend of aromatic spices before being slow-cooked or grilled to perfection. Mansaf, the national dish of Saudi Arabia, is a tender lamb cooked with saffron-infused rice and a tangy yogurt sauce. Kabsa, another beloved dish, combines fragrant rice with spiced meat and is often garnished with nuts and dried fruits.
Traditional Beverages: To complement the meal we indulged in traditional Saudi Arabian coffee, known as "qahwa,". It is a lightly roasted coffee infused with cardamom and served in small cups. The sweet aroma and rich flavor of qahwa make it a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
Sweet Endings: Saudi Arabia has a wide range of sweet treats to offer. We enjoyed a slice of "Basbousa," a moist semolina cake soaked in sugar syrup and garnished with nuts, as well as, "Luqaimat," deep-fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup.
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