How to Dine Arabic Style

Arabic Style dining is different than Western dining traditions as the Arabs use the floor to sit on and no chairs. Depending on how authentic you want to be, you could use small stools and a low table if you have a back problem.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Carpet
• Some low stools and a low table
• Cushions
• Finger bowls
• Lots of napkins

1. Place the carpet where you wish to eat. Place the cushions for people to sit on. Alternatively, you could use low stools and a low center table. Place the plates on the floor or on the low table and the cups and glasses next to them. Have some dishes ready to serve from. Greet your guests well and consider it a privilege that they came to you.

2. Wear comfortable clothes, as you will be on those cushions a long time. Allow your guests to sit first. It is customary to then offer them water from a kettle to wash their hands in finger bowls, since you will be eating with your hands,

3. Offer your guests some water and tea. Tea is poured from a kettle about a foot from the glass or cup. Keep in mind that your guests come first in everything. Never serve yourself before them. After some stimulating conversation, bring on the salad and serve it in wide bowls. Everything is served separately in courses.

4. Bring in the full meal. It can be chicken, beef or rabbit, whatever you desire to make. Everything is a little on the dry side as it makes it easier to eat with your hands. After the main meal serve rice and pita bread.

5. Give everyone a choice of desserts, either jalebi or baklava. There is tea served again with dessert and the guests get served before anyone else. After the dessert is over, the finger bowls can again be used to enable people to wash their fingers after the meal.

6. Thank your guests profusely for attending your dinner.

Tips & Warnings

• In Arabic culture, the guest is important so treat them like it. Always let them do things first, whether it is going to the table or sitting down.
• Sitting on the floor on cushions may not be easy. If you have a back condition, do not do it, but ask for a stool instead. It is not worth hurting yourself.