SAUDI ARABIA: Jeddah is known throughout Saudi Arabia for the unique dishes and lavish spreads its residents prepare for the daily "iftar" meals during Ramadan

Record ID: 189008

  • Title: SAUDI ARABIA: Jeddah is known throughout Saudi Arabia for the unique dishes and lavish spreads its residents prepare for the daily "iftar" meals during Ramadan
  • Date: 30th July 2012
  • Summary: VARIOUS OF PEOPLE BUYING SAMOSAS STALL SELLING PASTRIES
  • Embargoed: 14th August 2012 13:00
  • Keywords:
  • Location: Saudi Arabia
  • Country: Saudi Arabia
  • Topics: Arts / Culture / Entertainment / Showbiz,Religion,Religion
  • Reuters ID: LVA9QFAESZJ2O7PF0M9I7620RWGE
  • Story Text: Throughout Saudi Arabia, the seaside city of Jeddah is well-known for its special local dishes, particularly enjoyed throughout the month of Ramadan.
    Pastries such as konafa and baklava, as well as a local drink known as sobya and made of barley, cinnamon and cardamom, are all regular features on the iftar breakfast table.

    "We get together during Ramadan and eat Ramadan meals - soup, sambusa, sobya (popular Ramadan drink in the western region), konafa (pastry), beans, fruits and juices," said local resident Ahmed A'abed.
    Saudi Arabia's second largest city is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere - something that is well reflected in the local cuisine.
    A meat or vegetable-filled samosa, known as 'sambusa,' comes originally from the Indian subcontinent, while the sesame-covered tamis bread finds its origins in Central Asia.

    "Our cuisine is well-known - there are many dishes. The most important thing is beans and tamis bread - these are the basic items on the dinner table. Most people like sobya and other popular drinks like tamarind and raisin," said a street vendor selling sobya.
    This year, Saudi authorities have urged all non-Muslims residing in the conservative Kingdom to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public during the month of fasting.
    According to local media reports, anybody violating the rules could see their work contracts terminated or even be deported.
  • Copyright Holder: REUTERS
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