Al Afja Mesaieed Beach in Mesaieed, Qatar, is renowned for its tranquil waters and beautiful scenery, making it a popular destination for visitors. The food history in this region, as in the rest of Qatar, is deeply influenced by a mix of Bedouin culture and the culinary footprints left by various peoples who have traded with or settled in the region, such as the Persians, Indians, and North Africans. Traditional Qatari cuisine is rich in seafood, as the country is peninsular with a vast coastline. Spices and flavors from India and Persia are commonly integrated into the local cuisine, along with the use of dates, lentils, and beans, reflective of Bedouin sustenance.
1. Machboos (Non-veg) - A spiced rice dish frequently served with lamb or chicken, considered the national dish of Qatar.
2. Thareed (Non-veg) - A traditional Arab stew of vegetables and meat, layered with thin bread, it is popular especially during Ramadan.
3. Harees (Non-veg) - A wholesome wheat and meat porridge, seasoned with cinnamon and sugar for a unique blend of savory and sweet.
4. Madrouba (Non-veg) - Another rice dish but with a porridge-like consistency, mixed with chicken or another type of meat, along with a blend of spices.
5. Balaleet (Non-veg) - A sweet and savory breakfast dish consisting of vermicelli noodles sweetened with sugar, cinnamon, saffron, and cardamom, often topped with an egg omelette.
6. Kousa Mahshi (Non-veg) - Zucchini stuffed with spiced rice and ground meat, served with a tangy tomato sauce.
7. Tabouleh (Veg) - A fresh herb and bulgur salad, mixed with tomatoes, mint, onion, and dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
8. Hummus (Veg) - A creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this dip is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.
9. Warak Enab (Veg) - Grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, tomato, parsley, and mint, often flavored with lemon and olive oil.
10. Fattoush (Veg) - A bread salad made from toasted or fried pieces of Arabic flatbread combined with mixed greens and other vegetables, such as radishes and tomatoes.
Al Sultan Beach Resort
Address: South of Doha, Mesaieed
Famous food: Grilled Hammour (Non-veg)
Regency Sealine Camp
Address: Mesaieed, Qatar
Famous food: Traditional Qatari Lamb Machboos (Non-veg)
Golden Tulip Doha Hotel
Address: Doha, a short drive from Mesaieed
Famous food: Shawarma Platter (Non-veg)
Note: Address details should be confirmed as they frequently change, and some restaurants might be in proximity to Mesaieed rather than directly on Al Afja Mesaieed Beach.