Dra'a, also known as Daraa, is a city located in southwestern Syria, near the border with Jordan. With a population of approximately 100,000 people, it is a relatively small city but is still considered an important economic and cultural hub in the region.
The city of Dra'a is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its cuisine. The local cuisine is influenced by the traditional Arab and Levantine flavors and uses a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients.
One of the most popular dishes in Dra'a is Kibbeh, which is a mixture of ground lamb or beef, bulgur wheat, onions, and a variety of spices. The mixture is formed into small, oblong shapes and then fried or baked. The dish is often served with a side of yogurt and a salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs.
Another popular dish in Dra'a is Shawarma, which is a Middle Eastern street food that has become popular all over the world. It is made by slicing meat (usually chicken or beef) off a spit and then serving it in a pita bread with vegetables and sauces. The meat is marinated in a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic, before being cooked.
Falafel is another popular dish in Dra'a, which is made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices, and then formed into balls or patties and fried. It is often served in a pita bread with vegetables, hummus, and tahini sauce.
Makloubeh is a traditional Syrian dish that is very popular in Dra'a. It is made by layering rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and vegetables in a pot and then cooking it slowly over low heat. The dish is then flipped over onto a serving platter so that the rice is on the bottom and the meat and vegetables are on top.
In addition to these popular dishes, Dra'a is also known for its desserts. One of the most famous desserts in Dra'a is Ma'amoul, which is a type of pastry that is made with semolina, butter, and sugar, and then filled with dates or nuts. Another popular dessert is Basbousa, which is a cake made from semolina, sugar, and coconut, and soaked in a sweet syrup.
As for drinks, tea is the most popular beverage in Dra'a. It is often served in small glasses and is typically sweetened with sugar and flavored with mint or other herbs. Another popular drink is Ayran, which is a yogurt-based drink that is served cold and is often used to cool down the heat of spicy foods.
In terms of daily life, people in Dra'a tend to lead a relatively relaxed lifestyle. The city is not known for its bustling nightlife, and most people tend to eat their main meal in the evening after the sun has set. However, there are still plenty of small cafes and restaurants where people can gather and socialize over a cup of tea or a meal.
Dra'a is a small but culturally rich city in Syria, with a cuisine that is influenced by the traditional flavors of the Arab and Levantine regions. Its dishes are made from fresh and flavorful ingredients, and are often enjoyed in a relaxed and social setting. Whether it's Kibbeh, Shawarma, Makloubeh, or any of the other delicious dishes and drinks available in Dra'a, visitors to this city are sure to be treated to a culinary experience that they will not soon forget.