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Comfort food explorations at one of Abu Dhabi's oldest eateries, from shawarma to hummus.

Delighting in Authentic Arabic Flavors: Shawarma and Hummus in Abu Dhabi

Comfort food tastings at a long-standing Abu Dhabi eatery, specializing in Shawarma and Hummus...
Comfort food tastings at a long-standing Abu Dhabi eatery, specializing in Shawarma and Hummus offerings.

Comfort food explorations at one of Abu Dhabi's oldest eateries, from shawarma to hummus.

In her latest article for the Daily Briefing newsletter, Lakshana N Palat shares a personal favourite - a simple yet comforting ritual she discovered while living in Abu Dhabi.

The author found herself developing a deep affection for hummus, a dip that brought a sense of calm with each bite. This preference was particularly evident at Maroosh, an outlet that holds sentimental value for her husband, as his parents used to buy shawarmas from there when he was younger.

Maroosh, a staple in Abu Dhabi for over 40 years, offers more than just a meal. The flavours of their shawarma persist, allowing the author to connect with the city's past. The chicken shawarma, served with cucumber pickles and garlic sauce, is a favourite, though the author also enjoys ordering a falafel sandwich on tiring days.

The article also highlights Al Ibrahimi and Al Dhafra Al Arabiya, two traditional and long-standing shawarma and hummus outlets in Abu Dhabi, known for their authentic flavours and significant role in the city's culinary scene.

Finding comfort in traditional food is a common occurrence when settling in a new country, and this is no different in the UAE. Shawarma, a dish often sought out by newcomers, is a perfect example of this. The author mentions that her visits to Maroosh for shawarmas became a tradition, a sign of accepting Abu Dhabi as home.

The article also touches upon other beloved locations in the city, such as Abu Dhabi's Al Raha, Dubai's La Mer, and Abu Dhabi's waterfront.

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  1. Lakshana N Palat, in her latest article for the Daily Briefing newsletter, discusses a cherished practice discovered in Abu Dhabi: enjoying hummus, a comforting food that brings a sense of tranquility.
  2. One place where the author often indulges in this comfort food is Maroosh, a eatery that holds nostalgic value for her husband as his parents used to buy shawarmas from there.
  3. In addition to Maroosh, the article also spotlights Al Ibrahimi and Al Dhafra Al Arabiya, traditional and venerable shawarma and hummus eateries in Abu Dhabi, renowned for their genuine flavors and prominent roles in the city's culinary landscape.
  4. When settling in a new country, finding comfort in traditional food is quite common, and this is evident in the UAE, especially with shawarma, a popular dish among newcomers, becoming a cherished tradition for some.

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