Food in Djibouti

Djibouti, a small country located on the Horn of Africa, offers a culinary journey that reflects its rich cultural tapestry and strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes. Visitors to Djibouti can expect to savor a blend of African, Arabic, and French influences in the local cuisine, making it a fascinating destination for food enthusiasts. This article will guide you through the must-try dishes and flavors that define Djiboutian cuisine, providing a flavorful accompaniment to the country's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Whether you're sampling street food or dining at a local restaurant, the culinary experiences in Djibouti are as diverse and exciting as the country itself.

Djiboutian Dishes

Fah-fah (Soupe Djiboutienne)

Fah-fah, also known as Soupe Djiboutienne, is a traditional Djiboutian stew. It's a flavorful soup that often includes meat such as goat or beef, vegetables like tomatoes and onions, and an array of spices including cumin, cardamom, and cloves. This dish is usually served hot and is especially popular during the month of Ramadan.

Skudahkharis

Skudahkharis is considered the national dish of Djibouti. It's a hearty and comforting rice and lamb stew, flavored with a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cumin, and cinnamon. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the meat and spices, making it a deeply satisfying meal that is commonly enjoyed during festive occasions.

Lahoh

Lahoh is a spongy, pancake-like bread that is a staple in Djiboutian cuisine. Made from a fermented batter of wheat flour or a mixture of different grains, it is cooked in a skillet and often served with stews or curries. Lahoh has a slightly tangy taste due to the fermentation process and serves as a perfect vehicle for scooping up sauces and gravies.

Yemeni Mandi

While originally from Yemen, Mandi has found its way into Djibouti's traditional cuisine due to the close cultural ties between the two countries. This dish features meat, usually chicken or lamb, cooked with rice, onions, and a medley of spices including saffron and turmeric, resulting in a fragrant and flavorful meal, often served during special occasions.

Xalwo (Halva)

Xalwo, or halva, is a sweet confection that is commonly served in Djibouti during celebrations and gatherings. This sticky dessert is made from sugar, cornstarch, cardamom, and ghee, and sometimes includes nuts like peanuts or sesame seeds. It has a chewy, jelly-like texture and is rich in flavor, making it a favorite treat among locals.

Samaki Wa Kupaka

Given Djibouti's location on the Horn of Africa, seafood is a significant part of the diet. Samaki Wa Kupaka is a popular Swahili dish that features fish marinated in a blend of spices, coconut milk, and tamarind paste, then grilled or baked to perfection. The result is a succulent dish with layers of flavor and a creamy sauce that pairs well with rice or bread.

Djiboutian Desserts

Beignet

These deep-fried pastries are a sweet treat in Djibouti, often enjoyed as a snack or for breakfast. Similar to doughnuts, Djiboutian beignets are usually made from a yeast dough, fried until golden brown, and dusted with powdered sugar. They can also be filled with chocolate, fruit jams, or cream for an extra indulgent experience.

Kac Kac

Kac Kac (pronounced ka'ka) are bite-sized doughnut-like pastries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. These sweet snacks are made with a simple dough that's flavored with cardamom and sometimes coated with sugar syrup. They are commonly enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee and are a staple during festive occasions.

Laxoox

Also known as canjeero, laxoox is a traditional Somali and Djiboutian bread similar to lahoh. It is slightly thicker and is often enjoyed with sweet or savory toppings like honey, sugar, or stew. Laxoox is typically eaten for breakfast and is beloved for its soft texture and versatility.

Tamriyeh

Tamriyeh is a sweet, fried pastry originating from the Middle East but also enjoyed in Djibouti. It's a parcel of thin dough filled with a mixture of semolina, cream, and nuts, then deep-fried until crisp. Once cooked, it's often sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with a syrup flavored with rose water or orange blossom.

Balbalo

Balbalo is a unique Djiboutian sweet, consisting of thin layers of dough that are baked and then soaked in honey or sugar syrup. This dessert is rich and sticky, with a texture that is both chewy and crunchy. It's a less common but traditional treat that offers a glimpse into the country's diverse culinary influences.