Global Chefs Find Inspiration in Saudi Cuisine at Saudi Feast Food Festival
Riyadh – The Saudi Feast Food Festival in Riyadh showcased the growing global interest in Saudi cuisine, with chefs and culinary enthusiasts exploring the rich flavors of the Kingdom.
At the La Liste event, a panel of renowned chefs and cookbook authors discussed the versatility of local ingredients and the exciting opportunities they present for fusing traditional Saudi dishes with global culinary techniques.
As Saudi cuisine gains popularity both locally and internationally, chefs are increasingly experimenting with unique combinations.
French chef from the event, Cyril Rouquet-Prevost, expressed his fascination with the Kingdom’s culinary landscape and its potential for innovation.
His latest book, “1 Date, 1 Coffee,” features 60 date-based recipes inspired by culinary traditions from Mesopotamia to the Mediterranean.
Rouquet emphasized that fresh Saudi dates have changed his perception of this ancient fruit. He noted their versatility, as they can be utilized in various forms such as fruit, paste, or syrup, allowing for a wide array of recipes from starters to desserts.
“Everywhere in the world, even vegans, they love dates,” he declared, showcasing their appeal across different diets.
In addition to dates, Rouquet highlighted the significance of regional spices. He expressed admiration for cardamom paired with rose essence, as well as his favorite local varieties of rice, particularly bukhari rice.
These ingredients enhance the culinary profile of Saudi dishes, captivating not just local taste buds but also international ones eager for new flavors.
Also featured at the festival was the desert truffle, which Saudi Arabia began exporting to Europe in late 2024.
As the world’s leading exporter of dates, which reached an impressive SR 1.695 billion ($451.7 million) in 2024, Saudi Arabia is capturing the attention of the culinary world through its unique ingredients.
Rouquet noted how food acts as a bridge for peace, allowing conversations to flourish over shared meals.
Colombian journalist and cookbook author Jacqueline Jackaman joined the conversation, sharing her experiences with Saudi cuisine through her two books, “Cooking Her Heritage: Saudi Arabia” and her upcoming “Saudi Fusion Flavors.
” Jackaman, in collaboration with Saudi chef Yasser Jad, has created fusion recipes that blend Saudi cooking with flavors from various cuisines, including French and Colombian.
Her culinary journey involved extensive travel throughout the Kingdom, where she connected with home-cooks and grandmothers safeguarding traditional recipes.
Jackaman emphasized that while many chefs in restaurants are men, it is women in homes who are the true custodians of Saudi culinary traditions. The stories and dishes they shared greatly enriched her understanding of Saudi culture.
To document the diverse flavors, Jackaman and her co-authors engaged with locals, gathering handwritten recipes and stories that illuminate Saudi Arabia’s rich culinary heritage.
She expressed gratitude for the warmth and hospitality they received, which made their documentation efforts possible. “If it wasn’t for them, this book wouldn’t be possible,” Jackaman remarked.
The La Liste event also celebrated culinary excellence in Saudi Arabia, announcing its 2025 award winners. Notable accolades included Cafe Boulud winning Opening of the Year, while the Ethical and Sustainability awardwent to Indulge Thyself.
Momo was acknowledged as Talent of the Year, Najd Village for Classical Revival, and Kuuru earned the Innovation Award. Additionally, AlUla was recognized as a Gastronomic Destination.
In summary, the Saudi Feast Food Festival highlighted the remarkable transformation of Saudi cuisine, showcasing how local flavors are capturing the global culinary imagination.
With chefs experimenting at the intersection of tradition and innovation, the Kingdom is quickly becoming a vital player on the global culinary stage. As the world embraces these unique flavors, Saudi Arabia’s culinary future looks bright and inviting.
