Dubai, with its glittering skyline and cosmopolitan outlook, is a city that never ceases to amaze. The food scene, in particular, is a fusion of flavours from across the globe, yet one can’t overlook the city’s rich history in cuisine. From age-old traditional dishes to contemporary takes on culinary favourites like seafood buckets, an Arabic restaurant in Dubai promises a memorable dining experience.

Here, we’ll explore the essentials of Arabic dining and dive into the modern trends that have taken the food landscape by storm, particularly the growing popularity of seafood buckets in Dubai. So, if you’re a food lover in search of a feast that tantalizes your taste buds with both tradition and modernity, this guide is for you.

Traditional Arabic Cuisine

Arabic cuisine is popular for its robust, aromatic, and richly flavored dishes, offering a dazzling combination of spices, herbs, and local ingredients. Whether you’re stepping into a cosy neighbourhood restaurant or a grand restaurant, the experience remains rooted in hospitality and flavour.

1. Kebab: It is a renowned dish in Middle Eastern, South Asian, and Mediterranean cuisines. It typically comprises of seasoned and grilled meat, often served with accompaniments like flatbread, rice, salad, and dips such as hummus or garlic sauce. Kebab refers to various types of grilled meat dishes, with the method of preparation and the type of meat used differing by region.

Types of Kebab 

There are many types of kebabs available, each with its own unique flavor and method of cooking. Some of the most popular types include:

Shish Kebab: Skewered chunks of marinated meat (lamb, beef, or chicken) grilled over an open flame.

Doner Kebab: Thin slices of meat that are cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It is commonly served in pita bread with salad and sauces.

Seekh Kebab: Ground meat mixed with spices, shaped onto skewers, and grilled. This type of Kebab is popular in South Asian cuisine.

Kofta Kebab: Ground meat mixed with onions, parsley, and spices, shaped into meatballs or patties. It’s then grilled or baked. These are common across the Middle East.

Whether you’re enjoying it at a street vendor or in a premium Arabic restaurant, kebab is a must-try dish when exploring Arabic or Mediterranean cuisine.

2. Grilled Meats 

Grilled meats are vital part of traditional Arabic cuisine. You’ll find plenty of shish tawook,  kofta and kebab. These dishes are normally served with rice, flatbreads, or fries and accompanied by garlic sauce and pickles. Many Arabic restaurants in Dubai offer these dishes, adding their own flair while staying true to their roots.

3. Rice Dishes 

Lamb is an important part of many Arabic dishes, with mansaf and machboos being two of the most popular.

Mansaf: A traditional Jordanian dish containing tender lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt and served over rice.

Machboos: A spiced rice dish, served with lamb, chicken, or seafood, infused with cardamom, saffron, and other spices.

These dishes are ideal for those who want to indulge in the rich, slow-cooked flavours that are synonymous with Arabic dining.

Seafood Buckets in Dubai  

While traditional dishes remain a staple in Dubai’s food landscape, there’s no denying the surge of innovative trends that cater to modern tastes. One such trend that has garnered popular traction with both locals and visitors is the seafood bucket. For many food aficionados, seafood buckets in Dubai have become a must-try dining experience, providing a casual yet indulgent way to enjoy the freshest catches from the sea.

What’s in a Seafood Bucket? 

Seafood buckets normally include an array of seafood such as shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, and mussels, all seasoned with aromatic spices and sauces. The bucket is typically served with corn on the cob, potatoes, and bread to soak up the delicious juices. Diners are encouraged to get their hands dirty as they savour this communal meal, making it a fun experience.

Seafood Bucket in Dubai  

In Dubai, seafood buckets are not only about serving food but also about presentation and flair. There are Arabic restaurants in Dubai which have taken this concept and infused it with Middle Eastern flavours, offering seafood buckets with a twist.

Why Seafood Buckets are Popular? 

The allure of seafood buckets lies in their communal nature. Much like mezze, seafood buckets are crafted to be shared, encouraging diners to come together and enjoy the meal together. This represents the communal aspect of traditional Arabic dining, where family and friends gather around large platters to share food.

Also, seafood is an integral part of Dubai’s culinary identity, because of its proximity to the Arabian Gulf. As a result, restaurants in the city have access to some of the finest seafood, making seafood buckets a natural fit for Dubai’s food landscape.

Where to Find the Best of Both Worlds?

If you’re looking to experience both traditional Arabic dishes and the modern seafood bucket, there are many Arabic restaurants in Dubai that offer the best of both worlds. These establishments combine the richness of Arabic culinary heritage with contemporary dining trends, offering an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Authentic Arabic Restaurants 

For a deep dive into traditional Arabic dining, restaurants like Grand Entree offer elaborate menus that feature all the classic dishes, from kebabs to rice dishes and beyond. These restaurants focus on safeguarding the authenticity of Arabic flavours while presenting dishes in a modern and inviting atmosphere. Some also offer seafood dishes like grilled fish and prawns, bringing together the best of the region’s land and sea.

Seafood Restaurants  

If you’re more interested in enjoying seafood, there are a number of restaurants that specialize in seafood buckets while embracing Arabic flavours. These establishments often feature an array of seafood, with options for customizing your bucket to include your choice of seasoning and spice level.

Conclusion 

Dubai’s food landscape is a treasure trove of culinary delights, where tradition meets modernity in the most delicious ways possible. Whether you’re savouring traditional Arabic dishes or a delectable seafood bucket, dining in an Arabic restaurant in Dubai is a true feast for the senses. As the city continues to evolve, so does its food scene, offering something for everyone – from the foodie to the curious traveller.

So, the next time you’re in Dubai, ensure that you explore both the old and new. Indulge in a traditional lamb dish with your dear ones, and don’t miss the chance to dive into a seafood bucket for a modern twist.