A taste of Saudi, Japanese style: ROKA collaborates with Chef Nawal Alkhalawi
Embark on a gastronomic journey that interlaces the rich culture of Japanese and Saudi culinary traditions and modernity…
On Thursday September 26 and Friday September 27, epicures are invited to an exclusive dinner experience at ROKA Riyadh. Available for two nights only, this event welcomes acclaimed Saudi Chef Nawal Alkhalawi for a special collaboration, celebrating Saudi National Day with a limited-time signature menu.
Witness a celebration of diverse cultural inspirations as ROKA and Chef Nawal will be presenting us guests with two distinct cultures and cuisines on plates.
Drawing on the bold flavours of Saudi Arabia with the refined taste of Japan, the set dinner menu, priced at SAR380, unfolds a selection of visually stunning plates.
The menu
Spanning ten courses, each more delicious than the next, highlights include the nigiri “aburi”, where traditional Japanese sushi is elevated with Saudi-inspired toppings, wrapped in Japanese Nori, and topped with a delicate wagyu beef tartare. This harmonious blend of flavours pays homage to both culinary traditions and a classic Kbaiba recipe originally from the region of Hayel.
The journey continues with a pickled date and spinach salad, a dish that artfully combines the sweetness of dates with the crunch of sumac-coated almonds and the creamy richness of fried goat’s cheese, offering a delightful balance of textures.
Another testament to this fruitful collaboration is the main course of Japanese barley jareesh hot pot, enriched with tender shredded chicken and the smoky depth of black lime – a modern twist on a Saudi classic.
Natural flavours and textures take centre stage, too, conjuring vibrant, multi-layered sensations. Standout dishes include the za’atar roasted cauliflower, paired with a spicy tahini sauce and crispy cauliflower leaf chips, and the baked potato with Saudi truffle, where the earthy savoury essence of truffle transforms this simple dish into a luxurious experience.
Meanwhile, the Saudi-spiced Najel fish from the Red Sea, accompanied by a tangy tahini and tamarind sauce, offers a perfect harmony of spice and freshness.
The gastronomic journey culminates in a collaborative dessert presentation in the form of a rich, sticky date pudding. Featuring a cardamom camel milk gelato, an aromatic, creamy treat paired with the robust flavours of Saudi coffee caramel and locally made Halawa crumble, Chef Nawal’s childhood favourite, this exquisite creation is bursting with Saudi flavours.
Finally, guests will encounter a captivating creation – a light and refreshing miso crème brûlée with pistachio ice cream, leaving diners with a lasting impression of this exceptional dining experience.
Chef Nawal, a Le Cordon Bleu-trained nutritional chef, will be present on both nights of the collaboration to share her passion for Saudi cuisine and provide insights into the unique menu crafted for this event. Renowned for her dedication to preserving Saudi heritage through food, Chef Nawal has used her extensive global culinary expertise to craft a menu that honours Saudi traditions while introducing new and exciting flavours.
ROKA x Chef Nawal Alkhalawi, Sept 26 & 27, ROKA Riyadh. Tel: 9200 17652. @rokarestaurant.ksa
Images: Supplied