Ramadan recipes: Courgette, chickpea fritters

Ramadan recipes: Courgette, chickpea fritters
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Updated 05 April 2024
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Ramadan recipes: Courgette, chickpea fritters

Ramadan recipes: Courgette, chickpea fritters
  • Fritter comes from the Late Latin word frictura, meaning to fry or to roast

Light, nutritious, flavorful, and delicious, fritter is a pancake-like dish made of meat, seafood, vegetables, fruit, or sometimes just dough, that is battered or breaded before being deep fried.

Fritter comes from the Late Latin word frictura, meaning to fry or to roast. Legend has it that the batter-fried dish emerged from Portugal and Spain and was introduced into Japan in the late 16th century.

Different countries around the world, including India, Indonesia, and South Africa, have invented their own fritter recipes using local ingredients.

Today’s recipe is an Indian version of courgette and chickpea fritters in which courgette is used as the main ingredient and is mixed with chickpea flour, herbs, and spices.

To make the dish, which is modified to be healthier, you need one large courgette, one raw egg, 60 grams of chickpea flour, one teaspoon of mixed dried herbs, quarter of a teaspoon of cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

First, shred the courgette into small, thin slices, squeeze out the excess water in a colander, and put it aside. In a small bowl, mix the chickpea flour, dried mixed herbs, cayenne, salt, and black pepper before adding the
egg, then add the courgetti.

Mix well.

Instead of a frying pan, prepare a baking tray with wax paper to make the fritters more healthy and less oily. Spread a bit of oil on the wax paper, low-fat oil or olive oil if preferred, put a tablespoon-sized amount of the mixture on the tray, and place in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 12-15 minutes. Let it cool down a little before plating and serve hot.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh
Updated 20 November 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Gosha’ bakery in Riyadh

Gosha, with several branches in Riyadh, has gained a loyal following for its fresh-baked flatbreads and creative flavor combinations.

This modern bakery is the go-to spot for fans of stone-baked delights, offering a unique twist on traditional recipes. 

The thyme with pomegranate flatbread is the star of the menu. Its tangy, earthy flavors are perfectly balanced and complemented by the crispness of the bread. Another top pick is the honey labneh flatbread, offering a delightful sweet-and-savory profile. The falafel wrap also deserves praise for its crispy, flavorful filling that feels hearty and fresh.

Gosha’s menu caters to those seeking variety, offering several options suitable for breakfast or light snacks. 

However, one thing missing from the experience is the addition of fresh beverages. It would be great to pair these delicious flatbreads with fresh juice, tea, or coffee, creating a more complete dining experience.

Overall, Gosha impresses with its innovative take on traditional flavors, vibrant presentation, and consistently high quality.

This is a great option for anyone looking for a quick, delicious bite in Riyadh.

For more information, check the bakery’s Instagram @qooshah.


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Balcona 99’ Egyptian cuisine in Jeddah

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Updated 19 November 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Balcona 99’ Egyptian cuisine in Jeddah

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  • The menu is a tribute to the diverse and flavorful dishes of Egypt

Balcona 99, in As-Salamah in Jeddah, has been delighting diners with its authentic Egyptian cuisine, offering an experience rooted in tradition.

The ambiance captivates from the moment one enters, with intricately carved hieroglyphics and symbolic artwork evoking Egyptian heritage.

Traditional melodies, warm decor and striking geometric tiles come together to create a space that feels both vibrant and welcoming.

Guests can choose between the elegant dining area, the cozy lounge ideal for shisha or the outdoor terrace, which becomes especially appealing during the cooler months.

The menu is a tribute to the diverse and flavorful dishes of Egypt. To start, the appetizers set the tone for an unforgettable meal.

The fattoush and hummus are light and refreshing, while the roqaq meat, a crispy, flaky pastry filled with spiced meat, stands out as a favorite, especially when paired with the zesty chili sauce.

Mombar, stuffed eggplants, zucchini and peppers, also offer a delicious glimpse into Egyptian culinary artistry.

Moving on to the mains, the tawajen section features oven-baked rice paired with duck, pigeon, quail, chicken or other meat, alongside stews such as daoud basha and potato with chicken or meat.

The okra with meat stew is particularly delightful, its tender beef simmered in a fragrant tomato broth. The Egyptian fatta, served with trotters, lamb chops or chicken, is a hearty and satisfying choice that reflects the comfort food aspect of the cuisine.

For those who enjoy grilled dishes, the selection includes succulent quails, pigeon stuffed with rice, veal brochettes, kofta, lamb chops and beef liver.

Each is prepared to perfection, offering smoky, juicy flavors that leave a lasting impression. Classic dishes such as Balcona koshari and veal escallop pane add even more variety to the feast.

Desserts at Balcona 99 are the perfect conclusion to a rich meal. Whether it’s the soft, syrup-drenched balah el-sham, the creamy rice pudding, or the indulgent cheese kunafa, each dessert showcases the sweet simplicity of Egyptian flavors.

Check @balcona.sa on Instagram for more details.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Ruhi’ - Indian dishes in Riyadh

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Updated 18 November 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Ruhi’ - Indian dishes in Riyadh

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  • The restaurant’s open kitchen lets you watch as skilled chefs prepare your meal, adding an interactive element to the dining experience

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mumbai right in the heart of Riyadh at Ruhi, located in The Zone.

This restaurant offers a delightful array of Indian dishes. From fragrant biryani to creamy butter chicken, there’s something for everyone, vegetarians included.

A standout feature of Ruhi is the ability to customize the spice level of your dishes — perfect for those who prefer milder flavors.

The restaurant’s open kitchen lets you watch as skilled chefs prepare your meal, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.

For lunch, they offer attractive deals, including a combo featuring chicken curry or butter chicken, salad, plain rice, naan, and a soft drink for just SR85 ($23). For beef lovers, a similar lunch option is available for only SR95.

Don’t forget to explore the dessert menu, where you can indulge in unique treats like the citrus mango baba and the praline dome.

Signature dishes include jasmine ka jhinga, featuring jumbo prawns marinated in Kashmiri saffron and jasmine, and patta sarson ke murg, crispy chicken served with Ruhi’s special sauce.

Ruhi is open daily from noon to 1:30 a.m., making it a convenient option for lunch or late-night cravings.

For more details, check out @ruhi.ksa on Instagram.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Madeo’s at VIA Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Madeo’s at VIA Riyadh
Updated 17 November 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Madeo’s at VIA Riyadh

Where We Are Going Today: ‘Madeo’s at VIA Riyadh

Madeo at VIA Riyadh offers a charming Italian experience, bringing the warmth and flavors of Italy to Saudi Arabia.

Known for its classic pasta and pizza, Madeo excels in creating dishes that are simple yet packed with flavor. The live pasta station allows diners to watch as chefs prepare favorites like penne Madeo, featuring tomato sauce, basil, and Parmigiano Reggiano — a comforting and classic Italian taste.

Another favorite is the melanzane alla parmigiana, a dish combining layers of eggplant, mozzarella, and tomato sauce to create a hearty, cheesy delight.

The pizza selection includes the four-cheese pizza, which brings together gorgonzola, mascarpone, goat cheese, and mozzarella, topped with a hint of truffle oil for an aromatic finish.

The burrata pizza, featuring fresh and sun-dried tomatoes, adds a balance of creamy and tangy flavors that’s simply delightful.

For dessert, diners can enjoy Madeo’s classic tiramisu or hazelnut-filled profiteroles, both of which bring a sweet, satisfying end to the meal. Drinks like the basil smash, a mix of basil leaves, apple juice, and tonic, and the amaretto sour with orange and lemon juice, add refreshing options to complement the Italian flavors.

One downside is that parking at VIA Riyadh is not complimentary, which could be inconvenient for some guests.

Nevertheless, Madeo’s warm ambiance, authentic Italian dishes, and live Italian music make it a perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy Italian cuisine in a lively setting.

For more information, check their Instagram @madeoristorante.sa.

 


Where We Are Going Today: ‘Otium Concept’ in Jeddah

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Updated 16 November 2024
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Otium Concept’ in Jeddah

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  • The dessert selection continues the theme of indulgence with offerings including rose lokum cheesecake adorned with fresh petals, and an apple tarte fine served with vanilla ice cream

Otium Concept is located in Fayfa Avenue Mall on Prince Sultan Road in Jeddah. It is a lifestyle store and restaurant/cafe inspired by the glamour of art deco salons.

The cafe offers a thoughtfully crafted menu that combines international comfort foods with artisanal ingredients. Breakfast options include classics such as eggs Benedict on brioche and the cafe’s signature Beirut breakfast, featuring foul, labneh, and halloumi.

For lighter options, there are wholesome choices like Greek yogurt bowls with granola and honey, or acai bowls topped with fresh berries.

Starters, including burrata with pesto and tomato caviar, and beetroot carpaccio with hazelnuts and goat cheese, are well-presented, while from the main courses, the grilled pistachio salmon is a highlight, offering a delicate-yet-rich flavor profile, while the honey mustard chicken provides a savory-sweet experience with a tender, juicy texture.

The dessert selection continues the theme of indulgence with offerings including rose lokum cheesecake adorned with fresh petals, and an apple tarte fine served with vanilla ice cream.

The menu also features hearty salads and sourdough open sandwiches including spicy chicken or lobster, offering a comforting and satisfying meal on the go, as well as fresh pasta dishes such as lemon spaghetti and penne arrabbiata.

With its sophisticated-but-inviting atmosphere, Otium promises a dining experience that is both comforting and refined, making it a great choice for any occasion. Otium also offers catering services.

The boutique provides a distinct shopping experience, showcasing handpicked pieces from celebrated European designers. The space feels like a curated gallery, with brands including Forte Forte, Jamin Puech, and Yavi offering clothing, accessories, shoes, bags, and even decorative home items.

Otium also embraces its cultural side with an impressive collection of art and antiques, curated by architect Ibrahim Radwan. The gallery space features an eclectic mix of sculptures and paintings, blending history with modernity. Notable pieces include a Napoleon III-era mantel clock, an antique bronze statue of a German soldier, and vintage French candelabras.

Check @otiumconcept on Instagram for more details.