Saudi Arabia Joins ‘Breads of Creative Cities’ Initiative with 3 Local Pastries
The Saudi Culinary Arts Commission announced the inclusion of three Saudi pastries in the “Breads of the Creative Cities” initiative, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
These baked goods reflect the history and culinary heritage of Saudi cities listed in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, in recognition of the efforts made to preserve cultural heritage for achieving sustainable development.
The chosen pastries represent three Saudi cities listed in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network: Al-Ahsa, which is famous for handicrafts and folk arts; Buraidah, which is recognized for culinary arts; and Taif, a city recognized for literature.
The list includes Al-Ahsa’s Al-Khubz Al-Ahmar (Red Bread).
It is a distinctive type of bread baked with dates and special spices. The list also includes Al-Kleija from Buraidah. It is a traditional dessert that reflects Al-Qassim Region’s heritage.
The third pastry on the list is Taif’s Al-Mallah Bread, one of the oldest breads in the Saudi cuisine.
These baked goods are chosen based on specific criteria. For example, they have to use local flour in their preparation, and play a culturally significant role in the heritage of the city.
The listing of these local baked goods underscores the cultural richness and diversity of Saudi Creative Cities. Moreover, it reflects the Culinary Arts Commission’s efforts and strategy towards highlighting Saudi culinary arts locally and internationally, as well as its keenness on international knowledge and cultural exchange.
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network was launched in 2014.
It aims to boost cooperation with and among cities that have recognized creativity as a strategic factor of sustainable development relating to economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects.
