This stunning book contains a wealth of delicious recipes that reflect the flavors and traditional dishes of the Arabian Gulf: Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. Little is known in the West about this rich cuisine. Cardamom and Lime provides readers with the inspiration to create these wonderful dishes. The book starts with a fascinating introduction to the history of the Gulf and the traditions and customs that make food such an essential part of daily life. The cuisine of the Arabian Gulf is diverse yet individual and has long been associated with companionship and tradition. Rice features heavily, as do grains and legumes, while chicken, lamb and fish are also found in traditional dishes. Dates are an essential part of any chapter on desserts, but you will also find aromatic cardamom cake, rose-scented rice pudding and teas. From machbous laham (fragrant lamb pilaf) to mrabyan (shrimp and rice), there is plenty here to tempt the taste buds. Throughout the book there are beautiful photographs and feature spreads to give a flavor of life in the Gulf, making this a unique and eye-opening introduction to this fabulous cuisine.