Diet
The diet in Yemen is influenced by the region's geography, history, and culture. Traditional Yemeni cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and strong flavors. Here are some of the staple foods in Yemen:
Bread: Bread is a staple food in Yemen, and it is often served with every meal. Traditional bread is made with flour, water, and salt and is baked in a tannour oven.
Rice: Rice is a common ingredient in Yemeni cuisine, and it is often served with meat and vegetables. One popular dish is called "mandi," which is a seasoned meat and rice dish that is cooked in a tandoor oven.
Vegetables: Vegetables are a central part of the Yemeni diet, and many dishes are based on seasonal vegetables such as okra, eggplant, and tomatoes. Vegetables are often cooked with spices and served as a side dish.
Meat: Meat is also a part of the Yemeni diet, particularly lamb, beef, and chicken. Meat dishes are often cooked with spices and served with rice or bread.
Spices: Yemeni cuisine is known for its use of spices, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cardamom. Spices are often used to season meat and vegetables, and they add depth and complexity to many Yemeni dishes.
Honey and dates: Yemen is famous for its high-quality honey and dates, which are often used in desserts and sweet dishes. One popular dessert is called "bint al-sahn," which is a sweet, flaky bread that is soaked in honey.
Mealtime
Staples include rice, bread, vegetables, lamb and fish in the coastal regions. Lunch is the largest meal, It generally consist of chicken, lamb or beef with cooked vegetables, rice, flat bread soaked in buttermilk and covered with tomatoes, onions and spices. Breakfast is a light meal usually a bean dish called ful or scrambled eggs with tomatoes. The evening meal is called supper and is much like breakfast.
Salta a meat broth with onions, tomatoes, eggs and
hulba (an herb) is a favorite dish.
Shourba bilsen, a soup made from lentils is also popular.