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Yemeni food is counted among the Arab cuisines that consist of a plethora of fragrant dishes made with a pinch of regional variation. Today, this cuisine is the result of an amalgamation of diverse outside influences of other cuisines that shaped it well. A bit of Indian influence is evident in the southern parts of Yemen, such as Aden and Mukalla. In spite of the cultural and regional differences, food is the only thing that binds us all. Yemeni cuisine is a true example of that. Being highly versatile, Yemen’s culinary styles offer delicacies that can never fail to please one’s taste buds. One of its notable features is the use of fiery spices, while the ingenious style of cooking in a stone pot is what sets it apart from the rest of the Arab cuisines.Their culinary practices, traditions and rich customs have altogether left an indelible mark on the rest of the world. In Yemeni culture, generous offerings of food are made to the guests, as a gesture of hospitality. Guests not accepting the offering is considered an insult. Sounds intriguing, right? Most of their staple dishes are made with meats such as chicken, goat and lamb. Would you like to get a rich taste of Yemeni food? Here are five delicacies that are worth trying.
1. Kabsa
Kabsa is a rice dish that has its roots in Yemen. Cooking kabsa follows an ancient cooking technique, whereby meat is barbecued in a deep hole in the ground and left covered until it cooks well.
2. Jachnun
Jachnun is a Yemenite-Jewish pastry, which is prepared out of a dough that is rolled, aged and cooked in a smoked vessel. This cooking process turns the dough a dark amber colour, endowing it with a deep, sweet and caramelised taste. Traditionally, it is cooked overnight and enjoyed the next day.
3. Mandi
Mandi is another traditional Yemeni dish that consists of meat and rice. It is prepared with a special blend of spices and served on special occasions such as Eid. The name of the dish is derived from an Arabic word ‘nada’ meaning ‘dew’, and reflects the moist and dewy texture of the meat.
Try these delicious Yemeni delicacies and let us know your experience.
