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.

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..

Tamis bread

Jeddah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia, Madinah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Tamis is a traditional bread from the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia, particularly popular in Jeddah. It is a flat, thin, round bread with a slightly crispy surface and a soft interior. The preparation involves using flour, water, yeast, and salt. The ingredients are mixed and kneaded until a..

Mubarrak Bread

Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Mubarrak is one of Ramadan bread. This loave are soft and fluffy on the inside with an irresistible golden crust. The little bursts of sesame seeds and nigella seeds add texture and nuttiness. The brushing liquid, as odd as it may seem, adds a beautiful golden colour to the baked..

Mutabbaq Bread

Jeddah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Mutabbaq, a folded flatbread from Jeddah with Yemeni roots, features savory or sweet fillings. Cooked on a griddle, it symbolizes the city’s evolving street food culture and creative flair.

Huntah wheat

Al-Ahsa, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

In Al-Ahsa, wheat cultivation is distinguished by the use of a unique variety known as HUNTAH. This specific type of wheat is renowned for its quality and versatility. Not only is it used to produce bread, but it also plays a crucial role in various traditional dishes. The name "HUNTAH"..

Qursan Bread

Buraydah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Qursan is a traditional Arabian flatbread, particularly cherished in the central regions of Saudi Arabia, including Riyadh and Buraydah. Made from just three simple ingredients—whole wheat flour, water, and salt—this bread is baked on a hot iron griddle (Maqrasa), developing..

Ghraybeh

Buraydah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

A traditional shortbread cookie made with ghee, Ghraybeh is known for its delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Its subtle sweetness is the perfect counterbalance to the strong, rich flavour of Arabian coffee.

Fatoot

Madinah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Fatoot, which means crumbled into pieces, is an apt name for this crumbly spiced bread that comes from the Medina region. It is like Sheraik, a type of ring-like bread, except that fatoot doesn't have a hole in the middle and is thicker. The dough for fatoot is rather complex, being..

Samoon Bread

Buraydah, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

A versatile bread that can be enjoyed in both savoury and sweet variations. When slightly sweetened with honey or sprinkled with sesame seeds, Samoon becomes a delightful treat to enjoy alongside coffee, providing a neutral base that allows the coffee’s complex flavours to shine..

Athafi bread

Jazan, Kingdom Saudi Arabia

Bread holds a central place on the Jazan table, a faithful companion to ghee and an essential for enjoying the region’s delicious side dishes. It graces nearly every meal, making it a staple that Jazan’s people have always kept close at hand. Traditionally, there was no faster way to have..