Tonight I’m going to inaugurate a new section … I find exciting flying through the culinary inspiration , the imagination around the world and I like to take you with me on these trips to discover new foods and dishes , that’s why I called the new adventure : the world at the table! You are all invited , as usual, almost every night we’ll go to dinner somewhere new … are you ready? Let the journey begin!
Our first stop will be in the UAE … close your eyes, a fairy-tale world is waiting for us
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the federation of the UAE, is located on the northern coast , the main town of the homonymous sheikhdom , the largest and richest in the world . It was founded in the mid- 1700 and soon became the seat of the ruling family .
The turning point of this city took place in the 50s, there was a strong economic and demographic transformation linked to the discovery of numerous oil fields , all of which led to a significant change in Abu Dhabi from a small fishing village became a wealthy commercial and political center .
The guest in the UAE, is considered an ” amir ” or ” amira ” meaning prince and princess , so do not be surprised : you will be treated as such!
The hotels offer , given the high level of clientele , international cuisine , and the cuisine of the city , reflects the culture and traditions of a country that has had years to trade with India , Africa , Europe and Asia. So there are reworkings of many ingredients from those countries in fusion with the Arab tastes that are still evolving , generating imaginative dishes .
The meal is served on a terrace covered with a roof of palm trees, we can choose to eat at the table sat on benches or on the floor on cushions , menus are created with fans made by women emirantine using dried leaves of palm and date
Here we are at the table, we immediately notice how foods are rich in spices and ingredients like cinnamon , saffron, turmeric , along with nuts , lime and other dried fruits .
Here is one of the most famous Arabic dishes : Harees is called , is a dish of meat and flour slowly cooked in an oven or in a clay pot and served with clarified butter
Another dish , the majboos , prepared by cooking the meat in water containing a mixture of herbs with the addition of lime , dried, cooked rice and saffron are added during cooking
But do not forget the fish that constitutes the basis of many local dishes , so I am going to try to madrooba the mix of salted fish with a thick sauce , the rice is always present, often served with saffron , nuts and spices
Drink now ghahwa , traditional Arabic coffee that is served in small cups without handles , mixed with cardamom and saffron along with desserts made with goat cheese , chopped bananas taste even with the sweet bread but there are cakes made with fruit from which excel the date and dried fruit
So ends the first trip to this city that seems painted with colors of gold , where you can feel the charm of the exotic , I leave the Corniche , the waterfront of Abu Dhabi and return from the world varied and almost unreal Emirates to the couch at home my for my usual cup of coffee … the next one!
And … the journey continues!
