Where we are going today: ‘Aseeb’ authentic Saudi cuisine

Nada Al-Turki

Aseeb is a new dining spot where you can indulge in authentic Saudi cuisine.

The idea for the restaurant began with a vision by founders Abu Saud and his wife Umm Saud to accurately represent Najdi cuisine and introduce a homier approach to Riyadh’s culinary scene.

They use palm fronds in their cooking process, which adds a distinct flavor to their dishes. The space is accented with Najdi architectural elements and unique murals showcasing Saudi figures, as well as traditional antiques like cooking pots and the girba, a bag made from animal skin used to preserve water and milk.

Diners can opt to seat in a majlis, a traditional sitting room native to various regions in the Kingdom. They can also sit in the open floor plan or even book a semi-private table for SR 150 ($40).

Upon seating, guests are served traditional Saudi coffee, made with cardamom and green coffee beans, and balah, a type of date.

Their menu carries a variety of Najd’s specialties, including red jareesh, a dish made of crushed wheat cooked with milk, mashed chicken, tomatoes and coriander and topped with fried onion and musamana spices; and qursan, a thinly sliced bread cooked with meat and fresh vegetables and garnished with onions and Aseeb’s special spices.

They also offer a number of dishes from other regions, like saleeg and molokhia, and present their own take on traditional plates like lamb, straight from Aseeb’s farms, spiced and grilled on palm leaves.

Their appetizers include an array of soups, salads, and bite-sized options that are packed with flavor. The sambosa is made with camel meat spiced to perfection and comes extra crispy with daqqus, a tomato sauce, on the side. The kibbeh, served with yogurt sauce and pomegranate molasses, is also a great choice for those looking to try camel meat for the first time.

The eatery is not the friendliest for vegetarians, but it does have a few options like vegetable marahif, thin crepe-like slices stuffed with vegetables flavored with hot pepper, as well as the traditional jareesh dish, made without meat.

Their desserts make for a delightful way to end your meal. Go for the mahalabia, masaree, or the inventive brulee hanini, which puts a modern spin on the traditional version by fusing it with French creme brulee, topped with ice cream.

Aseeb aims to be the go-to spot for visitors or foreigners to become acquainted with Najdi culture and traditions. Their warm and attentive staff create a wholesome experience for diners and will make you feel at home.

Courtesy: arabnews