Food in Iraq

Iraq is a country that boasts a vibrant history and a rich cultural tapestry, and its cuisine is a testament to the diverse influences that have shaped it over millennia. Visitors to this ancient land will discover a culinary tradition that is both unique and inviting, with dishes that are steeped in history and bursting with flavor. Iraqi cuisine is an essential experience for any tourist seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture. From the bustling markets of Baghdad to the tranquil banks of the Tigris and Euphrates, indulge in the flavors of Iraq and uncover the traditional dishes that are the heart of this nation's culinary identity.

Iraqi Dishes

Masgouf

Masgouf is Iraq's national dish, a must-try for any visitor. This ancient Mesopotamian recipe involves grilling fish, traditionally carp, which is caught from the Tigris River. The fish is split down the middle, seasoned with rock salt, tamarind, and turmeric, then impaled on wooden stakes and slow-cooked beside an open flame. The result is a smoky and succulent dish, often served with flatbread and pickled vegetables.

Biryani

While biryani is known across the Indian subcontinent, the Iraqi version has its unique twist. Iraqi biryani is a rich, spiced rice dish layered with cooked vegetables, raisins, almonds, and chunks of meat, usually chicken or lamb. It's a celebratory dish often served at special occasions with a side of cucumber salad and yogurt.

Dolma

Dolma refers to a family of stuffed vegetable dishes. In Iraq, this often includes grape leaves, onions, tomatoes, or zucchini filled with a mix of rice, minced meat, and Middle Eastern spices, then simmered in a tangy tomato or pomegranate sauce. It's a labor-intensive dish that's a staple at family gatherings.

Tepsi Baytinijan

This popular Iraqi casserole is made with layers of fried aubergines (eggplants), potatoes, tomatoes, and green peppers, baked with minced meat. The dish is bathed in a rich tomato sauce and baked until everything is tender and flavorful, creating a comforting and hearty meal.

Kebab

Iraqi kebabs are skewers of minced meat—usually lamb or beef—mixed with parsley, onions, and a blend of spices, then grilled over an open flame. They're typically served with grilled tomatoes, onions, and a heap of fresh flatbread to wrap everything together.

Quzi

Quzi is a grand dish of roasted lamb, slow-cooked to tender perfection. It's often served over a bed of aromatic rice mixed with nuts, raisins, and served with roasted vegetables. This dish is a common centerpiece at large family feasts and special occasions.

Kubba

Kubba, or kibbeh, comes in various forms but generally refers to a mixture of ground meat—usually beef or lamb—bulgur wheat, and spices. This mixture can be shaped into balls or patties and then fried, boiled, or baked. Kubba Mosul, a fried version filled with minced meat, onions, and nuts, is particularly well-known.

Pacha

Not for the faint-hearted, Pacha is a traditional breakfast dish made from sheep's head, trotters, and stomach, all boiled slowly until tender and served with bread soaked in the rich broth. It's a dish that signifies generosity and is often enjoyed during the winter months or on special occasions.

Iraqi Desserts

Kleicha

Kleicha is a national cookie of Iraq, often associated with religious holidays and celebrations. It's a date-filled pastry, subtly flavored with cardamom and sometimes rose water, then baked until golden. Varieties may include fillings of nuts or coconut, but the date version is the most traditional.

Znoud-el-Sit

This dessert consists of crispy, phyllo pastry rolls filled with a rich, sweet cream and drenched in syrup. Znoud-el-Sit is a popular treat during Ramadan and other festive occasions, offering a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.

Baklava

While found throughout the Middle East, each country has its version of baklava, and Iraq is no exception. Iraqi baklava is typically less sweet than its counterparts and is filled with chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts, mixed with cardamom and sometimes rose water, all held together with layers of buttery phyllo dough.

Halawa

Halawa, also known as halva, is a dense, sweet confection made from tahini (sesame paste) mixed with sugar, pistachios, and sometimes other nuts. It has a crumbly texture and is a common sweet treat enjoyed with tea or coffee.

Qatayef

During the holy month of Ramadan, qatayef is a staple dessert. These sweet dumplings are made from a batter that's cooked like pancakes, filled with sweet cheese or nuts, then folded into half-moons and fried or baked. They're often soaked in syrup or sprinkled with powdered sugar before serving.