Get ready to cook up an authentic Emirati dinner
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If you’re looking to add some flavour to your emirates’ adventures and get a real taste of the local culture, there’s a real treat waiting for you at Al Khayma Heritage House. There’s only one difference – this time you’ll be the one wearing the chef’s hat.
As you make your way to the awe-inspiring Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, prepare to be transported from the modern city filled with skyscrapers and man-made miracles, to a magical area ruled by barajeels, narrow streets and enticing coffee aromas. Once you reach the charming Al Khayma Heritage House, you’ll be greeted by friendly faces along with some piping hot Arabic coffee and the juiciest dates you’ve every enjoyed. Then, it’s time to get your game face on as you meet Chef Sanjaya, ready to give you a crash course on the best of authentic Emirati cooking.
Time for a kitchen takeover
As soon as you’ve made your way across the magical courtyard, the heat is on. After getting a quick tutorial from a professional, it’s your turn to settle in behind the burners and fry up your very first regag bread. Get your gloves on and forget the utensils, because this crepe-like treat is spread out on the hot plates using only your hands.
Once your first delicacy is done (and considering the incredible taste - already devoured), it’s time to add some sweetness in the form of mouth-watering, dream-fulfilling, jaw-dropping luqaimat. The bite-sized dough balls, known as a traditional Emirati dessert, are deep fried before being fished out of the oil and smothered in delicious date syrup. There is a strong possibility, that luqaimat is, in fact, what dreams are made of.
Before getting down to the main event, you’ll enjoy a short tour around the traditional Emirati house where the beloved restaurant is nestled in. This is your chance to ask questions and learn a bit more about the local culture, traditions and architecture. Once the sugar rush from the luqaimat has worn off, Chef Sanjaya will lead you to the outdoor kitchen, where you’ll be whipping up the flavourful main course under the starry Arabian sky.
Masterchefs in the making
As you reach your cooking station, you’ll be given a chef’s hat and a quick introduction by Chef Sanjaya on the unique ingredients you’ll be incorporating in your authentic Emirati meal. Chicken and rice – the main components of chicken machboos – most probably won’t need much introduction. But things sure get a bit trickier once a gigantic silver platter filled with all kinds of spices hits the table.
Then, it’s time to get the show on the road. You’ll be cooking up your very own chicken machboos under Chef Sanjaya’s careful eye and helpful instructions. Your culinary masterpiece is ready in about two hours, and what’s a cooking session without a little victory dance? Celebrate your gastronomic accomplishment and work up an appetite as local performers entertain you with some traditional Arabic music.
Of course, the evening wouldn’t be complete without digging in to the delicious delight you’ve cooked up. Savour all the incredible flavours and spices, whilst enjoying the tranquil and extraordinary setting and sharing the delectable dinner with your loved ones.
Whether you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, or just looking to learn more about Emirati cuisine and culture, the Emirati Cooking Class at Al Khayma Heritage House is the perfect experience for any tourist and resident alike. Bring your friends and family and make this an evening to remember!
