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๐Ÿฅฉ
Main course Meat

Food Flavour DNA

Nutritional Values

๐Ÿ”ฅ580kcal
๐Ÿ’ช38gProtein
๐ŸŒพ22gCarbs
๐Ÿฅ‘38gFat
๐ŸŒฟ2gFibre
โš–๏ธ350 gServing

* Per serving · 350 g. May vary.

Margoogat

How to order / say it
Say it ู…ุฑู‚ูˆู‚ โ€” [mah-roo-goo]
Order I'd like the Margoogat, please.
Locally ุฃุฑูŠุฏ ุงู„ู…ุฑุฎูˆู‚, ู…ู† ูุถู„ูƒ.
Say locally

A hearty Emirati stew typically made with meat and tomatoes.

Why try it?

Margoogat is a perfect representation of Abu Dhabi's love for rich, spiced flavors integrated with traditional cooking approaches. Its comforting blend of spices and tender meat reflects the warmth of Emirati hospitality.

How it tastes

Expect a spicy and slightly tangy flavor with a rich, tomato-based sauce. The stew is aromatic with notes of Middle Eastern spices and is served hot, often with bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Origin & History โ€” first documented: 1850

Margoogat originated in the Gulf region, popularized in the mid-19th century as family-centric meals after the introduction of tomatoes through trade. It's become iconic for its versatile protein options and rich flavor, central to traditional Emirati households.

Recipe

Ingredients

  • ๐Ÿฅฉ 500 g beef cubes
  • ๐Ÿฅ• 400 g tomatoes
  • ๐Ÿง„ 1 large onion
  • ๐Ÿง„ 4 cloves garlic
  • ๐Ÿง‚ 1 tbsp cumin
  • ๐Ÿง‚ 1 tsp coriander
  • ๐Ÿง‚ 1 tsp turmeric
  • ๐Ÿง‚ 1 stick cinnamon
  • 1 liter water
  • ๐Ÿง‚ 1 tsp salt

Method

  1. 1 Sautรฉ onion and garlic in oil until golden.
  2. 2 Add beef cubes and brown on all sides.
  3. 3 Mix in tomatoes and spices, stirring well.
  4. 4 Add water, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes.

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All Asia recipes โ€” United Arab Emirates โ€” Abu Dhabi โ€” Margoogat
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