#38

World Rank

Maqluba

مقلوبة

Palestinian 'upside-down' rice — layers of fried eggplant, chicken, and spiced rice, cooked in one pot and flipped upside-down revealing beautiful layers.

🌍

Palestine

Nablus

🌶️

Not Spicy

Spice Level

💰

$3-8

Price Range

⏱️

Prep Time

Overview

Maqluba, known locally as "مقلوبة", stands at #38 in our ranking of the world's finest rice dishes. Palestinian 'upside-down' rice — layers of fried eggplant, chicken, and spiced rice, cooked in one pot and flipped upside-down revealing beautiful layers. Originating from Nablus, Palestine, this beloved dish has captured hearts worldwide with its warmly spiced, smoky from eggplant, and layered.

Key Ingredients

Ricechickeneggplantcauliflowertomatoesallspicecinnamonpine nutsyogurt

The authentic Maqluba features these essential ingredients: Rice, chicken, eggplant, cauliflower, tomatoes, allspice, cinnamon, pine nuts, yogurt. Each component contributes to the dish's distinctive warmly spiced, smoky from eggplant, and layered character that makes it truly special.

Flavor Profile

Warmly spiced, smoky from eggplant, and layered

Preparation & Serving

Cooking Method

Vegetables fried, layered with rice and meat in pot, flipped when done

Serving Style

Inverted onto a large platter to reveal layers

Maqluba is prepared using the traditional method: vegetables fried, layered with rice and meat in pot, flipped when done. The dish is inverted onto a large platter to reveal layers, showcasing the care and attention that goes into every serving. This dish focuses on its rich flavors rather than heat.

Best Paired With

Wine
Local beverages
Fresh salad

History & Origins

The story of Maqluba is deeply intertwined with the culinary traditions of Nablus, Palestine. This iconic dish emerged from the Palestine food culture, where Rice and chicken have been staple ingredients for generations. Over time, Maqluba evolved from a regional specialty to an internationally recognized symbol of Palestine's rich culinary heritage.

Where to Try Authentic Maqluba

For the most authentic Maqluba experience, Nablus in Palestine is the ultimate destination. Look for establishments where Maqluba is the specialty, and don't hesitate to ask locals for their recommendations. Many traditional eateries in Palestine have been perfecting their recipes for generations.

Nutrition Information

500-700

Calories

$3-8

Price Range

/3

Spice Level

Prep Time

Cultural Significance

Maqluba represents more than just food—it's a window into Palestine's cultural identity and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maqluba?
Maqluba (مقلوبة) is a rice dishes from Nablus, Palestine. Palestinian 'upside-down' rice — layers of fried eggplant, chicken, and spiced rice, cooked in one pot and flipped upside-down revealing beautiful layers.
How do you pronounce Maqluba?
Maqluba is the English name, while locals call it "مقلوبة" in Palestine.
What does Maqluba taste like?
Maqluba has Warmly spiced, smoky from eggplant, and layered.
What are the main ingredients in Maqluba?
The key ingredients include Rice, chicken, eggplant, cauliflower, tomatoes, allspice, cinnamon, pine nuts, yogurt.
Is Maqluba spicy?
Maqluba is not typically spicy. It focuses on other flavor elements.
How many calories are in Maqluba?
A typical serving of Maqluba contains approximately 500-700 calories.
What is the best drink to pair with Maqluba?
Maqluba pairs excellently with Wine, Local beverages, Fresh salad.
Where is the best place to try authentic Maqluba?
For the most authentic experience, visit Nablus in Palestine, where Maqluba originated.