Food in Kuwait

Kuwait, a gem in the heart of the Persian Gulf, offers travelers a memorable experience that extends far beyond its oil-rich lands and modern skyline. The country's cuisine is a sumptuous tapestry woven from Arabian culinary traditions and a blend of influences from Indian, Persian, and Mediterranean kitchens. Serving as a gastronomic crossroads, Kuwaiti dishes boast flavors that are as diverse as they are flavorful. For tourists looking to immerse themselves in local culture through their taste buds, Kuwait's culinary scene is an adventure worth savoring. Discover the must-try dishes and flavors that define Kuwaiti cuisine during your visit to this captivating corner of the Middle East.

Kuwaiti Dishes

Machboos

Machboos, or Kabsa, is a fragrant rice dish considered the national dish of Kuwait. It features basmati rice infused with saffron and a variety of spices, typically cooked with chicken, lamb, or fish. The meat is marinated with a blend of spices, including baharat, a mix of cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and nutmeg, then slow-cooked to perfection with rice, onions, and tomatoes.

Quozi

Quozi is a lavish dish often served at special occasions and gatherings. It consists of a whole stuffed lamb, slow-roasted to achieve tender, flavorful meat. The stuffing includes rice, nuts, raisins, and sometimes ground meat, seasoned with an array of spices. Quozi is a symbol of Kuwaiti hospitality and generosity.

Mutabbaq Samak

Mutabbaq Samak is a popular Kuwaiti seafood dish. It is a layered fish casserole where seasoned fish, typically Zubaidi (silver pomfret), is cooked with rice, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. The layers are then baked, resulting in a dish that is both hearty and flavorful.

Marag

Marag is a flavorful Kuwaiti stew that can be made with chicken, lamb, or fish. It features a tomato-based broth enriched with a variety of Middle Eastern spices and herbs, alongside vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and zucchini. Marag is often served with rice or bread on the side for dipping.

Jireesh

Jireesh, or Harees, is a traditional wheat-based dish. It's a simple yet hearty meal made with ground wheat and meat, usually chicken or lamb. The ingredients are slow-cooked until they form a thick, porridge-like consistency. Spices and butter are added for flavor, making it a comforting dish, particularly popular during the month of Ramadan.

Gabout

Gabout is another comforting Kuwaiti dish consisting of dough stuffed with a mixture of meat, onions, and spices. These stuffed dumplings are then cooked in a savory stew until tender. Gabout is a filling and satisfying meal, often enjoyed during the colder months.

Freekeh

Freekeh is a traditional Kuwaiti dish made from roasted green wheat that is then cooked with meat, typically chicken or lamb. It's seasoned with a variety of aromatic spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaves. Freekeh is valued for its smoky flavor and high nutritional content.

Kuwaiti Desserts

Luqaimat

Luqaimat are sweet, deep-fried dumplings that are a staple dessert in Kuwait. These golden, crispy treats are made from a batter of flour, yeast, and sugar, then drizzled with date syrup or honey and sprinkled with sesame seeds. Luqaimat are often enjoyed during Ramadan and at family gatherings.

Basbousa

Basbousa is a sweet, semolina-based cake soaked in syrup. Often flavored with coconut or almond, it is a dense and moist dessert, topped with a single almond or pistachio for decoration. Basbousa is a popular dessert throughout the Middle East and is commonly served with tea or coffee.

Khabees

Khabees is a traditional Kuwaiti dessert made from flour or semolina, typically flavored with cardamom and saffron. It is sweetened with sugar or date syrup and often garnished with nuts like almonds or pistachios. Khabees is a simple yet rich dessert, enjoyed particularly during festive occasions.

Halwa al-Jibn

Halwa al-Jibn is a sweet cheese dessert roll that combines the flavors of sweetened cheese, cream, and pistachios. It's made by spreading a thin layer of semolina dough, filling it with cheese, and then rolling it up. The rolls are sliced, garnished with pistachios, and often drizzled with syrup or honey.

Muhallabia

Muhallabia is a delicate milk pudding flavored with rose water and cardamom. It is thickened with rice flour or cornstarch and topped with ground pistachios or almonds. This smooth and creamy dessert is a cooling finish to a Kuwaiti meal, especially during the warm months.