Cuisine in Iraq

Discover signature dishes and food culture of this country

Asia / Western Asia/Middle East

Signature dishes

Masgouf

National dish of large Tigris fish butterflied and charcoal-grilled

  • Region: Baghdad
  • Main ingredients: Fish, Tamarind, Salt, Lemon

Kubba

Shell-shaped bulgur and minced meat fried croquette

  • Region: Nationwide
  • Main ingredients: Lamb, Bulgur, Onion, Spices

Dolma

Stewed grape leaves or vegetables stuffed with rice and meat

  • Region: North
  • Main ingredients: Rice, Lamb, Herbs

Iraqi Biryani

Festive rice dish mixing spiced rice with meat, vegetables, and nuts

  • Region: Nationwide
  • Main ingredients: Rice, Chicken, Raisins, Almonds

Fattoush

Salad of fried bread and vegetables tossed with za'atar

  • Region: North
  • Main ingredients: Pita bread, Tomato, Cucumber, Mint

Samoon

Boat-shaped bread crispy outside and soft inside

  • Region: Nationwide
  • Main ingredients: Flour, Yeast, Salt

Timun Mehal

Garlic pickle of small cucumbers

  • Region: Basra
  • Main ingredients: Cucumber, Vinegar, Garlic, Dill

Hareem

Thick soup of lamb and wheat simmered long

  • Region: Central
  • Main ingredients: Lamb, Wheat, Ghee, Cinnamon

Kleicha

Molded cookie filled with date paste

  • Region: Nationwide
  • Main ingredients: Flour, Dates, Cardamom

Iraqi Chai

National beverage of strong black tea with plenty of sugar

  • Region: Nationwide
  • Main ingredients: Tea leaves, Sugar, Cardamom

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