If you perform the Umrah in Makkah and Madinah, it is a pilgrimage and an opportunity to experience the local cuisine. The cities really have a lot of mouthwatering foods to offer, which will not empty your pocket while on your trip. Here is a brief on some of the best street foods you should taste while in the Makkah and Madinah.
Table of Contents
Shawarma: A Taste of Tradition
Shawarma is one of the favorite street foods in Makkah and Madinah. You will see it almost anywhere that you turn to. The Al Ghorayeb features spiced chicken or lamb grilled on a vertical rotisserie, giving it a unique smoky taste. The meat is then rolled into pita bread with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries. Shawarma makes for an ideal snack after a tiring day of worship. If you are on Umrah trip and planning to visit Madina or Makah by using the Umrah Packages including flights and transport, don’t forget to taste this delicious cheap food on the roadsides.
Sambusa: A Crispy Delight
Sambusa is a deep-fried bread stuffed with ground meat, vegetables, or cheese containing spices. This type of usually fried pastries is super popular during Ramadan, but they can be enjoyed at any time of the year. They sell in sets of three or five, mainly as snacks for more than one person to share. The crunchy skin and delicious stuff inside make Sambusa the most wanted street food. If you are considering Ramadan, Umrah Packages should surely taste this food. It is very famous, especially during Ramadan.
Falafel: A Vegetarian Option
Falafel is an enjoyable vegetarian option to satisfy those who choose not to consume meat, offering delicious chickpea or fava bean balls deep fried before being coated in spices, served in pita bread with salad and tahini sauce or wrapped up in lettuce with veggies – providing delicious energy throughout your day! There are multiple falafel stands located both in Makkah and Madinah that provide light meals such as this delicious treat! As you plan your December Umrah Packages falafel is an ideal and easy meal to have while you go on your trip.
Mandi: A Flavorful Rice Dish
Chefs cook Mandi using fresh cuts of lamb or chicken, along with spices like saffron, cinnamon, and cloves. They cook the beef until it becomes soft, and the rice absorbs all the flavors, giving the dish a rich and full taste. Mandi is usually accompanied by chili sauce or yogurt. It can be served in most food carts and small eateries in the two cities as it is a special meal to strengthen the heart after long day activities. When planning for Umrah Packages 2025 visit this watering place since it serves local dishes.
Jareesh: Comfort Food
Jareesh is a traditional dish made by combining crushed wheat with meat, usually chicken, lamb, and spices. I have always found that it is creamy and has a mild taste, perfect to ease a complaining stomach, especially after a long day at work. Jareesh is simple and comforting, offering a satisfying mix of sweetness and comfort, perfect for a light snack. Most people can buy it in local markets as street food or at small eateries in Makkah and Madinah. When choosing your trip from an UK travel agency for Umrah ask your service provider where you can get your hands on this.
Mutabbaq: A Savory Pastry
Mutabbaq is a delicious filled bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The vendors fill it with minced meat, onions, eggs, and spices such as Kalonji and Seven Spices. You can also find sweet ones stuffed with bananas or chocolate. They are especially delightful as a breakfast meal or dinner treat. Those attending Mutabbaq can find new domestically prepared pickles and chili sauce to relish in food. When getting Ramdan Umrah Packages I suggest trying Mutabbaq to make your trip’s meal more enjoyable.
Dates: A Sweet Treat
Dates are one of the quintessential components of Makkah and Madinah’s traditions. Not only do they taste good, but there is no need to spend large amounts of money on snacks during the day to get a quick energy fix. Sellers in the streets present dates in different categories, such as the huge Medjool, which is very sweet. They are available virtually in every market and are delicious as a snack when one is busy throughout the day.
Arabic Coffee (Qahwa): A Refreshing Drink
When you’re there, try Arabic coffee, locally called Qahwa. This coffee is very focus and prepared with cardamom and sometimes saffron. People prepare it, and vendors sell it in small cups, usually alongside dates. Consuming Arabic coffee is part of the hospitality culture, so it is a nice opportunity to have a coffee during your prayers and sightseeing schedule.
Knafeh: A Sweet Dessert
Knafeh is a pastry made from thin layers of dough shredded and soaked in sugar syrup with a stuffing of cheese or semolina. It is crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and sweet to boot. Vendors in Makkah and Madinah commonly serve Knafeh, and you can easily spot it in almost every dessert shop. Do not leave out this tasty treat after a fulfilling meal.
Conclusion
I noticed that a fast-food chain, mainly in Makkah and Madinah, sells the following street foods while you are on your tour. The food culture and diet of the local population offer that special touch on your entire Umrah experience, from the Jarsha and Shawarma to Knafeh and dates. These delicious foods provide energy to the body and bring about a feeling of local culture and welcome. If you plan for the December Umrah Packages or Umrah Packages 2025 make sure to take time to savor these delicious local foods along the way.