Arabian's Artisan Breads: Cultural Heritage in Every Bite

From Mullah Bread and Saudi Spelt and Rye Sourdough to Maamoul, Khamir, Kleija, and Khubz Ahmar, each bread is a testament to the artistry of local bakers and the culinary legacy of the Arabian Peninsula. Each of these breads carries its own unique narrative, is a symbol of history, centuries-old traditions and authentic recipes passed down through generations.

Explore more on the Heri-Telling Platform of the project. Click “Discover More” to access detailed profiles of each bread:
dive into the story of every loaf and baker through engaging text, photos, and videos.

Al-Muhalla

Buraydah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Al-Muhalla, a cherished winter bread, combines whole wheat, dates, and aromatic spices, offering a rich, creamy texture that embodies tradition and festive gatherings.

Saudi Spelt and Rye Sourdough

Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

This Spelt and Rye Sourdough blends Saudi grains with European rye, honoring local heritage while embracing global bread-making traditions in a uniquely rich and hearty loaf.

Masoub

Jeddah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Masoub, a cherished breakfast dish, brings people together with its natural sweetness, served in a communal bowl that embodies unity, tradition, and festive Eid celebrations.

Mabshoor

Jeddah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

On festive occasions like Eid, bread such as Mabshoor takes centre stage, served with roasted meats or sweetened with honey and ghee. These traditions reflect the city’s deep commitment to hospitality, a value woven into its cultural fabric.

Marahif Bread

Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

A bread rooted in the tables of the people of Riyadh, passed down from generation to generation, and they are skilled in baking and serving it with different flavors. Its bread is called Marahif because of its light weight and thin thickness, as the word Raheef in the..

Lahooh bread

Lahooh is a traditional bread originating from Yemen, similar to a spongy, thin pancake. While it is particularly popular in Yemen and Somalia, there is no significant evidence of its presence in the traditional cuisine of Saudi Arabia. In these regions, Lahooh is made from..

Khobz Al-Abd

Buraydah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

A slightly sweet flatbread that’s sometimes flavoured with saffron or cardamom. This bread's delicate sweetness and soft texture make it an ideal accompaniment to a cup of coffee, especially during breakfast or an afternoon break.

Markook Bread

Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Markook is a traditional Middle Eastern flatbread particularly popular in Saudi Arabia and other Arab countries. It is known for its large, thin, and flexible texture, which makes it quite distinct from other types of bread. Markook is extremely thin, almost paper-like, and requires..

Masabeeb Bread

Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Al-Marasee', or Maraheef, Maraqeesh, or Masabeeb, is known by various names and prepared with different additions across the Kingdom. It is a dish commonly made in the central provinces. The name, size, and spices vary by province, but it typically consists of small..

Jamri bread

Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

The Jamri bread is called by several names, including Qars, Jamriya, Jamri, and Jamriya bread. It is one of the traditional Najdi dishes that has become widespread among the Bedouins. During days of fertility, they relied on wheat flour in their bread, but when they were afflicted..