Doha the capital of Qatar, is a paradise for food lovers who wish to taste authentic Qatari cuisine. The local food scene is rich with Arabian flavours, spices and centuries old traditions, and is a treat for every traveler. The flavours of Qatar will linger and no matter if you’re strolling through the busy souqs or dining in wonderful restaurants, they will stay with you.
But before you set off for culinary adventure on Qatar, you should ensure that you have your Qatar visa sorted. If you are planning a short stay or an extended trip, Qatar visit visa from Dubai is easy and easy and you are sure of a hassle free journey. But let’s go through the must try in Doha and where to find them.
Here are 10 must-try dishes and where to eat authentic Qatari food in Doha.
1. Majboos
Fragrant rice dish cooked with slow cooked meat (usually chicken, lamb or fish) and a blend of aromatic spices is Majboos, Qatar’s national dish. The flavor of the dish is rich because it uses saffron, cardamom and dried lime, so it has a different taste. Majboos can be served with yogurt or a fresh salad, as it is a must try for anyone who wants to experience true Qatari hospitality. Popular restaurants like Al Jasra Traditional Food and Walima serve some of the best Majboos in Doha.
2. Harees
Harees is a hearty porridge-like meal of wheat, meat and butter, a dish that is beloved during Ramadan and festive occasions. It is slow cooked until smooth and so rich and creamy, it is incredibly comforting. The dish is seasoned lightly so the natural flavors can come through. Go to places like Shay Al Shoomos or Al Manchab to have a taste of this traditional delicacy.
3. Madrouba
Madrouba is a rice, milk, butter and slow cooked chicken dish that is mashed up to a smooth consistency. The flavor from cardamom and ghee give this dish a great flavor and a great comfort food. Local eateries such as Radwaniyah House and Al Mourjan Restaurant have some of the best Madrouba in Doha.
4. Balaleet
Balaleet is a unique dish of sweet and savory tastes. It is vermicelli noodles sweetened with sugar, cardamom and saffron and topped with a thin omelet. The pairing may be novel, but it’s their favorite spot. To try a real Qatari restaurant to order try Al Jasra Traditional Food or Bandar Aden in Souq Waqif.
5. Machbous Laham
Similar to Majboos but with a stronger, deeper spice blend, this rice dish with tender lamb is boiled more slowly than the real thing. It is a flavorful and filling dish as the meat is marinated in a mixture of Qatari spices and cooked until it falls off the bone. When it comes to the taste, an authentic taste can be experienced at Walima or Umm Al Hanaya for indeed a Qatari cuisine.
6. Saloona
Qatari stew, also known as Saloona, is a stew made from meat, vegetables and a range of warming spices. It is usually eaten with bread or rice, so it is a wholesome and satisfying meal. It can be found in the homes of local people and at Damasca One and Bayt Sharq traditional restaurants, where it is cooked to perfection using old recipes.
7. Luqaimat
Qatar’s Luqaimat is a deep fried dessert consisting of dumplings coated in date syrup and sesame seeds. These sweet treats are crispy outside and soft inside and are equally addictive and perfect for some sweet tooth treat. Fresh Luqaimat can be found at local markets, cafes and restaurants such as Shay Al Shoomos and Chai Halib.
8. Kousa Mahshi
Qatari cuisine also includes Kousa Mahshi, a dish that is enjoyed by people across the Middle East. Zucchini stuffed with rice, meat, and spices, cooked in a rich tomato sauce, is what it consists of. A comforting and filling dish, this one can be served with yogurt or fresh bread. If you want to try a real version, go to Al Manchab or Al Mourjan.
9. Thareed
Thareed is a traditional Qatari dish that is often referred to as an ‘Arabian stew’. Slow cooked meat, vegetables and crispy bread soaked in a delicious broth. It is a popular dish during Ramadan because it is a nourishing and comforting dish. Restaurants like Al Jasra Traditional Food and Bandar Aden serve some of the best Thareed in Doha.
10. Khanfaroosh
Khanfaroosh is a small spiced doughnut fried dessert. These golden sweets are made with flour, egg, saffron and cardamom and perfect for an afternoon snack or as a sweet ending to meal time. Serve them with a cup of Qatari Karak tea and you have a truly authentic experience. For the best Khanfaroosh, go to cafes such as Karak Mqanes or La Gaufrette in Doha.
Conclusion
When visiting Doha, it is a must to explore Qatari cuisine as it offers a glimpse into the country’s culture and hospitality. There are hearty rice dishes such as Majboos and sweet indulgences like Luqaimat that each dish has a taste of Qatar’s culinary traditions. In traditional restaurants, or at Souq Waqif where you might be eating the street food, there is always something that you will want to norm.
Before heading down the food adventure, you need to get a Qatar visa to have a smooth trip. Applying for a Qatar visit visa from Dubai is quick and easy if you’re traveling from the UAE, so you can enjoy the best of Doha without any worries. Silence yourself and get ready to taste Qatari flavours authentic and experience unforgettable food memories.