Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in As Sulaymānīyah, Iraq
1. Khanaqe Kubbeh
Handmade dumplings filled with meat and served in a hearty tomato-based soup. Try it at Al-Khanaqi restaurant.
- Authentic Flavor: Made using traditional recipes passed down for generations
- Homemade Ingredients: Freshly made dumplings daily
- Rich History: Originates from a centuries-old Kurdish culinary tradition
2. Sorghum (Hilba)
Traditional Sulaimaniya bread, made from ground sorghum and baked in a clay oven. Visit the local market to taste it fresh.
- Nutritious Ingredient: High in fiber, protein, and various minerals
- Cultural Significance: A staple food in the region for centuries
- Artisanal Preparation: Skillfully prepared by local women in the community
3. Barbequed Fish (Shimaamish)
Delicious grilled fish, caught fresh from the nearby lakes, served with lemon and spices. Visit Pizhdar Lake for a taste.
- Fresh Catch: Fish is sourced directly from local fishermen
- Scenic Location: Enjoy the picturesque view of Pizhdar Lake while dining
- Flavorful Seasoning: Spices and lemon give a unique taste to the fish
4. Chicken Kubba
Stuffed chicken with spiced rice and served with a tangy yogurt sauce. Try it at Al-Mansour restaurant.
- Tender Meat: Chicken is cooked to perfection, ensuring juiciness
- Fragrant Spices: Infused with traditional Kurdish spice blends
- Rich Taste: Yogurt sauce adds a refreshing tanginess to the dish
5. Shurbat Na'ama
Cold mint drink made from yogurt and fresh mint leaves. Refreshing on a hot day and can be found at local cafes.
- Refreshing Drink: Perfect for cooling down in the summer heat
- Traditional Recipe: Based on an age-old Kurdish recipe
- Health Benefits: Rich in probiotics and vitamins from yogurt and mint
6. Kufta Ragu
Meatballs simmered in a thick tomato-based sauce, served with rice. Visit Al-Sham restaurant for this popular dish.
- Tasty Meatballs: Made from a mix of ground beef and lamb
- Rich Sauce: Tomato sauce enhanced with aromatic spices
- Versatile Dish: Can be found in various restaurants across the city
7. Barbequed Chicken (Shamiyan)
Whole chicken marinated and grilled over hot coals. Try it at Al-Bakiria for a flavorful experience.
- Tender Meat: Cooked to perfection, maintaining juiciness
- Flavorful Marinade: Infused with traditional Kurdish spices
- Scenic Location: Enjoy the beautiful view of Sulaimaniya while dining
8. Birinji (Rice Pudding)
Sweet rice pudding flavored with cardamom and served with crushed pistachios. Try it at local bakeries.
- Traditional Dessert: A staple dessert in the Kurdish region
- Sweet Flavor: Cardamom adds a unique, aromatic taste to the pudding
- Textured Topping: Crushed pistachios provide a delightful crunch
9. Kubbeh Nawwara (Red Dumplings)
Spicy meat dumplings served in a rich broth. Visit Al-Zuhour restaurant to taste this popular dish.
- Spicy Flavor: Infused with hot red pepper for a spicy kick
- Homemade Ingredients: Freshly made dumplings daily
- Hearty Meal: Perfect for a warming, filling meal
10. Lahmacun (Kurdish Pizza)
Thin, round flatbread topped with minced meat, onions, and spices. Visit the local market to grab a fresh one.
- Traditional Snack: A popular street food in the region
- Fresh Ingredients: Toppings are made fresh daily from local produce
- Versatile Toppings: Can be customized with various toppings like pickled peppers, cheese, or salad
11. Kabob Halabi (Halabi Kebab)
Grilled meat skewers seasoned with a zesty tomato-based sauce. Try it at Al-Hawrami restaurant.
- Tasty Meat: Made from high-quality, locally sourced meat
- Zesty Sauce: Infused with a tangy tomato sauce and fresh herbs
- Scenic Location: Enjoy the beautiful view of Sulaimaniya while dining
12. Salad Shorba (Sour Vegetable Soup)
A tangy vegetable soup made with lemons, garlic, and a mix of vegetables. Visit local restaurants to try this refreshing dish.
- Refreshing Soup: Perfect for cooling down in the summer heat
- Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables
- Traditional Recipe: Based on an age-old Kurdish recipe
13. Qaliya (Stuffed Vine Leaves)
Tender vine leaves stuffed with a mix of rice, herbs, and spices. Visit Al-Rasheed restaurant to savor this dish.
- Fresh Ingredients: Stuffed with freshly picked vine leaves and local produce
- Flavorful Fillings: Infused with aromatic herbs and fragrant spices
- Healthy Option: A vegetarian dish that's low in calories and high in nutrients
14. Birinji Bi Halib (Rice Pudding with Fish)
Sweet rice pudding mixed with tender fish chunks and served with lemon. Try it at local cafes for a unique dessert experience.
- Unique Combination: A rare blend of sweet and savory flavors
- Nutritious Ingredients: Rich in protein from fish and carbohydrates from rice
- Traditional Dish: A local favorite that showcases the region's cuisine
15. Mamra Bamiya (Okra in Tahini)
Fresh okra cooked in a creamy tahini sauce. Visit local restaurants to taste this unique dish.
- Creamy Sauce: Tahini sauce adds richness and depth of flavor
- Health Benefits: Okra is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Tasty Garnish: Garnished with lemon and garlic for added flavor