If you are looking for a way to spice up your life and your palate, look no further than Sallet Al Sayad’s exquisite Palestinian seafood dishes. In this blog post, we will explore Palestine’s rich and diverse culinary heritage and how it has influenced Emirati food culture. We will also introduce you to some of the most mouthwatering and flavorful seafood dishes that will make you fall in love with Mediterranean cuisine.
Palestinian Cuisine: a multicultural heritage
Palestinian cuisine is a reflection of the history, geography, and culture of the people who have lived in the land for centuries. It is influenced by the cuisines of the neighboring countries, such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and Turkey, as well as the various invaders and settlers who have left their mark on the region, such as the Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Crusaders, Ottomans, and British. Palestinian cuisine is characterized by using fresh ingredients, especially vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, herbs, olive oil, yogurt, cheese, and honey. Meat, especially lamb and chicken, is reserved for special occasions, while seafood is more common in the coastal areas.
Palestinian Spices
One of the distinctive features of Palestinian cuisine is the use of spices and herbs to enhance the flavor and aroma of the dishes. Some of the most common spices and herbs used in Palestinian seafood dishes are:
- Sumac: A tangy, reddish spice made from the dried and ground berries of the sumac plant. It adds a sour and lemony taste to salads, dips, and fish dishes. It is also sprinkled on top of hummus, labneh, and fattoush.
- Za’atar: A fragrant and savory blend of dried thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and salt. It is used as a seasoning for bread, cheese, eggs, and meat, as well as a dip for olive oil. It is also mixed with olive oil and spread on flatbread to make manakish, a popular breakfast item.
- Cumin: A warm and earthy spice that is widely used in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. It adds a nutty and smoky flavor to soups, stews, curries, and rice dishes. It is also used to season meat, especially lamb and chicken, as well as fish and seafood.
- Mint: A refreshing and aromatic herb that is used to add a burst of freshness and brightness to salads, dips, drinks, and desserts. It is also used to garnish and flavor meat and fish dishes, especially those cooked with lemon and garlic.
The best Palestinian Seafood Experience at Sallet Al Sayad
Now that you have learned a bit about the spices and herbs that make Palestinian seafood dishes so delicious, let us introduce you to some of the most popular and delectable dishes that you can find at Sallet Al Sayad.
- Sultan Ibrahim: This is a type of small, red mullet fish that is highly prized for its rosy, petite form and its robust, nutty flavor. It is cherished when pan-fried to crisp-skinned excellence and served with a tangy sauce made from lemon, garlic, and sumac. It is often accompanied by a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley, and a bowl of tahini, a creamy paste made from sesame seeds and lemon juice.
- Shearri: This is a type of spangled emperor fish that has a radiant yellow and blue appearance and a sumptuous meat that offers a rich, balanced taste. It is ideal for grilling and traditional fish stews, such as sayadiyeh, a dish of rice cooked with caramelized onions, spices, and fish stock, and topped with fried fish, pine nuts, and almonds. It is served with a spicy tomato sauce and a refreshing yogurt and cucumber salad.
- Lobster: This is a gourmet’s dream, a crustacean that has a succulent, sweet meat that encapsulates the essence of the ocean. It is decadently enjoyed with buttery, garlic infusions, or with a creamy sauce made from cream, cheese, and herbs.
- Lady Fish: This is a sleek and slender tropical fish that boasts a delicate taste and soft texture. It is often crisped to golden allure and served with a lemon and garlic sauce, or with a spicy and tangy sauce made from tomatoes, chili, and coriander. It is also used to make fish cakes in Palestine, fish fingers, and fish sandwiches, which are popular among children and adults alike.
- Hamour: This is a type of orange-spotted grouper fish that is native to the warm waters of the Middle Eastern seas. It is a luxurious fish that boasts tender white meat with a hint of oceanic sweetness. It is versatile and can be cooked in various ways, such as baked, grilled, fried, or steamed. It is often served with a rich and creamy sauce made from cream, cheese, and dill, or with a zesty and aromatic sauce made from lemon, garlic, and parsley. It is also used to make fish biryani, a dish of rice cooked with spices, raisins, and nuts, and layered with fish and fried onions.
- Sea Soup with Cream and Turmeric: This is a hearty and comforting soup that is made with a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, squid, mussels, and clams, as well as potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions. It is flavored with cream, turmeric, salt, and pepper, and garnished with fresh parsley. It is served with bread and butter, and is perfect for a cold winter day.
This blog post has given you a glimpse of the fantastic and diverse Palestinian seafood dishes you can enjoy at Sallet Al Sayad. These dishes are delicious and healthy, as they are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. They are also a great way to spice up your life and palate, as they celebrate bold flavors and aromas that will tantalize your senses. So, what are you waiting for? Come and visit us today and treat yourself and your family to a memorable and satisfying dining experience.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
