Food In Kuwait: Traditional Dishes That Define Kuwaiti Cuisine

An image of Kuwaiti Falafel, the best food in Kuwait, made from ground chickpeas.
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Kuwait is a fantastic destination for food lovers, offering various dishes that reflect the country’s rich traditions. The famous food in Kuwait features a mix of fresh ingredients, spices, and cooking methods passed down through generations. Kuwaiti cuisine has something for every taste, from flavourful rice dishes to crispy snacks. Exploring these dishes is a great way to experience the culture and history of the country. No matter your preferences, Kuwaiti food is sure to leave a lasting impression. In this blog, we will discuss

Top 10 Best Foods In Kuwait

Here are the 10 best foods in Kuwait, each one a true reflection of the country’s food culture:

1. Machboos

Machboos, a rice dish with meat, spices, and vegetables, a famous food in Kuwait.

Photo: Prabal Pratap Singh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Machboos is a well-loved dish in Kuwait made with rice, meat (usually chicken, lamb, or fish), and a mix of spices. The meat is cooked with the rice, allowing the flavours to blend together. The dish is often served with vegetables, yoghurt, or salad on the side. Machboos is typically eaten during lunch or dinner and is a favourite at family gatherings and special occasions. The combination of rice and tender meat makes it a filling and flavourful meal.

Locations: Kuwait City, Salmiya, Hawalli
Average Cost: 2.4 – 4.8 KWD / ₹640 – 1,280

2. Harees

An image showing a view of Harees, a traditional Kuwaiti dish to eat during Ramadan.

Photo: Krista / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Harees is a comforting Kuwaiti dish made with wheat and meat, commonly lamb or chicken. The ingredients are slowly cooked until the wheat breaks down and blends into a thick, smooth mixture. It has a mild flavour and soft texture that makes it easy to eat. The dish is nourishing, warm, and ideal for those who enjoy light seasoning and simple meals. Harees are often made in large quantities and shared among families. They are also a traditional Kuwaiti dish to eat during Ramadan. Its creamy consistency and wholesome ingredients make it a favourite for special meals nationwide.

Locations: Fahaheel, Jahra, Mangaf
Average Cost: 1.9 – 3.9 KWD / ₹500 – 1,040

3. Jireesh

An image of Jireesh, cracked wheat cooked with meat, usually chicken or lamb.

Photo: vika-imperia550 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Jireesh is made from cracked wheat cooked with meat, usually chicken or lamb, in a rich broth. The wheat absorbs the flavours of the meat and becomes soft and smooth. Jireesh is typically served during special occasions or large family meals. The dish is flavourful and filling, with the meat adding richness to the wheat. This simple yet tasty meal is a favourite in Kuwait, especially during gatherings or festive events. It’s a great way to enjoy both meat and grains in one dish.

Locations: Farwaniya, Salwa, Sabah Al Salem
Average Cost: 1.5 – 3 KWD / ₹400 – 800

4. Mutabbaq

An image of Mutabbaq, a savoury stuffed pastry with ground meat and spices, fried until crispy.

Photo: Mojackjutaily / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Mutabbaq is a savoury stuffed pastry filled with ground meat, onions, and spices. The dough is folded over the filling and fried until golden and crispy. This street food favourite is commonly eaten as a snack or light meal. It is often found in food stalls throughout Kuwait and is loved for its crispy exterior and flavourful filling. Mutabbaq is a quick and easy meal, perfect for those on the go. Its combination of crispy pastry and savoury filling makes it a delicious choice.

Locations: Kuwait City, Khaitan, Mahboula
Average Cost: 0.6 – 1.2 KWD / ₹160 – 320

5. Gabout

An image of a dish similar to Gabout, one of the most famous foods in Kuwait.

Photo: RitaE / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Gabout is steamed dumplings filled with meat, rice, and vegetables. They are cooked in a broth, which makes them soft and tasty. Gabout is often served during family gatherings or celebrations in Kuwait. Each dumpling is filled with a mix of rice and meat, providing a satisfying bite. The broth adds flavour to the dish, making it both filling and enjoyable. Gabout is a popular choice for those who like flavourful and tender dumplings, and it’s great for sharing at larger meals.

Locations: Hawalli, Salmiya, Mubarak Al-Kabeer
Average Cost: 1.5 – 2.4 KWD / ₹400 – 640

6. Qouzi

An image showing a view of Qouzi, a festive dish enjoyed during gatherings.

Photo: Omar Chatriwala of Al Jazeera English / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Qouzi is a rich dish made with slow-cooked lamb or goat, served with rice. The meat is cooked with various spices, such as cinnamon, saffron, and cardamom, making it flavourful. The rice absorbs the spices and the juices from the meat, creating a satisfying meal. Qouzi is often served at large gatherings and special events, making it a festive and delicious dish. The combination of tender meat and seasoned rice makes Qouzi a standout dish in Kuwaiti cuisine, enjoyed by many on important occasions.

Locations: Jabriya, Mangaf, Kuwait City
Average Cost: 3.0 – 5.4 KWD / ₹800 – 1,440

7. Shawarma

An image of Shawarma, marinated meat cooked on a rotisserie, a famous food in Kuwait.

Photo: Zebaarts / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Shawarma is a popular street food made by cooking marinated meat (typically chicken or lamb) on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is sliced thin and served in pita bread with vegetables, sauces, and sometimes pickles. Shawarma is a fast and tasty option for those looking for a quick meal or snack. It’s commonly found at food stalls across Kuwait and is a favourite for its savoury taste and ease of eating on the go. Shawarma is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack.

Locations: Salmiya, Farwaniya, Khaitan
Average Cost: 0.6 – 1.5 KWD / ₹160 – 400

8. Samboosa

An image of samboosa, a crispy deep-fried pastry filled with savoury ingredients.

Photo: kabir cheema / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Samboosa are deep-fried pastries filled with savoury ingredients like spiced meat, vegetables, or cheese. These crispy pastries are often served during Ramadan as a snack to break the fast. Samboosa is usually enjoyed with yoghurt or chutney for extra flavour. They’re easy to find at food stalls and local markets in Kuwait. The crispiness of the pastry combined with the flavourful fillings makes Samboosa a popular choice during special times like Ramadan. They’re great for anyone looking for a quick and tasty treat.

Locations: Hawalli, Mubarakiya, Jahra
Average Cost: 0.5 – 1 KWD / ₹130 – 270

9. Biryani

An image showing a view of biryani, a festive favourite dish often served with yoghurt.

Photo: asmash18 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Biryani is a flavourful dish made with rice and spiced meat such as chicken, lamb, beef, and vegetables. The meat is cooked with various spices and then layered with the rice, allowing the flavours to blend. Biryani is a popular dish for large gatherings and special occasions in Kuwait. It is often served with yoghurt, salad, or pickles to balance the spices. This dish is a satisfying and filling meal, perfect for family meals or festive celebrations.

Locations: Fahaheel, Mahboula, Salmiya
Average Cost: 1.8 – 3.6 KWD / ₹480 – 960

10. Kuwaiti Falafel

An image of crispy falafel made from ground chickpeas, served in pita with vegetables and tahini.

Photo: Alper Çuğun / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kuwaiti falafel is made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, shaped into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. These delicious bites are typically served in pita bread with fresh vegetables, tahini, or other sauces. Falafel is a popular vegetarian dish in Kuwait and is loved for its crunchy exterior and flavourful interior. It is a great option for anyone looking for a light meal or snack. Falafel is easy to find in food stalls and is a tasty and healthy alternative for many.

Locations: Mubarakiya, Salmiya, Khaitan
Average Cost: 0.3 – 0.8 KWD / ₹80 – 210

Food in Kuwait showcases the country’s rich traditions through a mix of bold spices, slow-cooked meats, and hearty grains. Whether it’s a comforting bowl of harees or a plate of crisp samboosa, each dish reflects everyday life and deep cultural roots. Exploring these meals is a true taste of Kuwait’s identity. Plan a trip with TripXL to experience authentic Kuwaiti cuisine and create unforgettable memories.

Cover Photo: Falafel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time for food lovers to visit Kuwait is during the cooler months, from November to April. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring local food markets and trying traditional dishes outdoors.
Yes, Kuwaiti cuisine offers several vegetarian options, including dishes like falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh. Many meals are prepared with fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes, making it easy for vegetarians to find tasty options.
Yes, Kuwait has a vibrant street food scene. You can find delicious snacks such as shawarma, mutabbaq, and samboosa in food stalls across the city. These quick bites are popular among locals and visitors alike.
Yes, all food in Kuwait is halal, as the country follows Islamic dietary laws. Most restaurants, markets, and food outlets serve dishes prepared in accordance with halal standards.
While knowing some basic Arabic is helpful, many people in Kuwait speak English, especially in restaurants and tourist areas. Most menus are available in both Arabic and English, making it easy to order food without a language barrier.

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