Do you want to go on a vacation but undecided about the destination? Why don’t you fly to Iraq and experience this ancient country known for its exotic attractions? Though the war has left its mark, the ancient city of Ctesiphon is worth visiting. Nestled on the banks of Tigris, the city used to be the royal capital of the Persian Empire for more than 800 years. Marvel at its architecture and gain insights into the history of Iraq. National Museum of Iraq is another attraction that you should not miss. Situated in Baghdad, the museum houses a collection of valuable artifacts and relics from the Mesopotamian, Babylonian and Persian eras. Make sure to also enjoy its traditional food in Iraq. Who knows, you may become addicted to them. Read on to find out.
1. Tepsi Baytinijan
Tepsi Baytinijan is a traditional Iraqi food that is often served on a typical Iraqi lunch or dinner. It’s a casserole dish that’s easy to prepare; if you’re interested in making your own, read on:
Sliced eggplants are first fried and arranged in a baking dish together with meatballs, potatoes, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and tomato sauce or paste then seasoned with salt and pepper. It is then baked in a pre-heated oven for 45 to 60 minutes or until everything is cooked and the eggplants are in a state of melted goodness.
2. Margat Qeema
Margat Qeema is a famous dish that is often served in both Iraqi and Iranian households. Although there are certain variations for preparing it from region to region, one ingredient remains the same that provides this traditional dish its distinctive earthy and tangy flavor—and that’s the dried lime. The dish is made up of minced meat, lentils, and other ingredients, which is then stewed until it has a gravy-like consistency. It is also best served with rice or bread.
3. Quzi (rice with lamb and nuts)
A list of the most famous Iraqi dishes won’t be complete without Quzi. Also known as Qoozi, this dish is based on rice and highly popular amongst the Arab countries, particularly those located along the Persian Gulf. What do you think of having your rice with cooked lamb, roasted nuts and sometimes raisins as toppings? Tantalizing enough? This wholesome meal is cooked on hot coals which imparts a smoky flavor thus creating a true sensory delight.
4. Masgouf (grilled fish)
Masgouf is definitely one of the most famous Iraqi dishes. It is much loved by the Iraqi people because who can resist the mouth-watering temptation of a grilled fish? Imagine the tenderness of the fish that will melt in your mouth, not to mention the charred flavor that you will get from the grilling. The fish is usually marinated in olive oil along with tamarind and turmeric for a unique and excellent taste.
5. Dolma (mixed vegetables)
If you are looking for something healthy in Iraq, why don’t you give this traditional food called dolma a try? If you order this item, generally you will be served a big portion of mixed vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and tomato that are cooked together with garlic, onion, and pepper in an egg-lemon sauce. This dish is usually served warm. But, there is another variant of dolma that is served cold in a garlic-yogurt sauce. You can try both and decide which one you like the best.
6. Yalanchi (stuffed grape leaves)
Have you ever eaten grape leaves? If not, this is your chance to find out how delicious these leaves are, especially when they are stuffed. The stuffing can be anything like meats, vegetables or nuts. Yalanchi can be served both hot and cold. If you find this food appetizing, you can even buy the preserved grape leaves to bring home. They are readily available at all grocery stores and once you get back home, prepare the fillings you like and wrap them with the leaves.
7. Khubz (flat bread)
Khubz is the traditional Iraqi bread that is oven baked. When you see khubz, you may be familiar with the shape. Yes, it is a flatbread that is also known by many people as pita. If you want to eat just the bread feel free to do so, it is tasty enough. But, most Iraqi people love to eat the bread with something savory. The filling can be inside the bread or added on top. Chicken, beef or lamb would be a perfect match for khubz.
8. Kibbeh Batata (beef and potato casserole)
Do you love potatoes? You should definitely try this delicious food called kibbeh batata. Shape the potato into balls and fill them with ground beef, fry them and there you go, you can enjoy your very own kibbeh batata. If you know and love croquette, you will surely love this dish. This food is best enjoyed as a light snack. But of course, you can enjoy it with rice, vegetables, and other side dishes.
9. Bagila Bil Dihin (fried egg over broad beans)
The best way to start the day in Iraq is by indulging in an Iraqi breakfast and one of the most delicious breakfast you can have in the country is Bagila Bil Dihin. Why? Because it has egg and beans, a super combination. It is healthy, it is nutritious and it is balanced. The beans they usually use are broad beans and on top of the beans, you can enjoy your fried egg. Sometimes, you may also find khubz served with Bagila Bil Dihin.
10. Kanafeh (noodle-like pastry)
You may be wondering if Iraq has something sweet in its list of traditional foods. The answer is yes, and you can satisfy your sweet tooth with a traditional Arab dessert called Kanafeh. This dessert is unique in that it is a thin pastry that resembles noodles. After it is baked, it is soaked in syrup but what sets it apart is the layers of cheese that are added later. You may try only one at first, but believe us when we say that you are going to want more because the taste is just perfect. The sweet syrup has a heavenly taste and you may go for that second helping after all.
11. Biryani (meat with rice)
Enjoy this classic dish at least once when you are in Iraq if you want a happy tummy during your holiday in the country. Biryani is meat (usually chicken, beef or lamb) that is served with rice and side dishes like fried potatoes, peas, and carrots. And, you cannot just serve it with just any rice. It should be Basmati. Sometimes, you can also add some curry sauce or yogurt over the top of the rice and meat.
12. Tashreeb (broth-soaked bread with meat or vegetables)
Lastly, we have Tashreeb. Consisting of broth-soaked bread served with meat or vegetables or a combination of both, Tashreeb used to be a dish that was eaten by the poor. However, it is no longer the case. Because of its delicious taste, Tashreeb has become very popular and nowadays is one of the staple foods in Iraq. Not only is it tasty, but it is also nutritious and will fill you up.
Discover the hidden gems of Iraq
Despite the news about the war in this Middle-East country, there remains a lot to be seen, enjoyed and admired in Iraq. Only after you have visited as many attractions as possible enjoy the traditional food, you will truly discover the hidden gems of Iraq.