As Saudi Arabia boasts a rich and unique cuisine, each region across the Kingdom has a special traditional dish that reflects its own identity and culture. Kleija is the official traditional dish of Al Qassim Region.
Traditional food is a key feature in the Saudi National Day celebrations. On this occasion, all households, restaurants and cafes serve traditional dishes and drinks to mark the day. Kleija is an essential stable in every Qassimi household. Hence, it is part of Al Qassim’s celebrations of the National Day.
Saudi National Dishes
In recognition of the significance of the traditional dishes as an integral part of the Kingdom’s history and a testament to its heritage and authenticity, the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission in 2023 declared Jareesh as the Saudi national dish and Maqshush as the national dessert.
Moreover, the Commission selected traditional dishes that best represent the culture and heritage of Saudi Arabia’s 13 Regions. Kleija was recognized as the official traditional dish that represents Al Qassim Region.
Kleija: Delight of Al Qassim
Being the most famous dessert in Al Qassim, Kleija combines the traditional ingredients found in every house in the Region. This sweet delight is not just a pastry, it is a blend of Saudi traditional flavors and heritage.
The signature dessert is usually baked in round or oval shape. It features a crispy outer layer with decorative patterns, while maintaining a chewy soft interior. In addition to its delicious taste, Kleija is highly nutritious, thanks to its rich ingredients.
A Recognized Pastry
In July, the Saudi Culinary Arts Commission announced the inclusion of Kleija in the UNESCO’s “Breads of the Creative Cities” project, along with two other varieties of bread, as part of the Creative Cities Network.
Under this initiative, Kleija was selected to represent the heritage of Buraidah city and Al Qassim Region, highlighting the Region’s cultural richness and culinary heritage.
Kleija Festival
Al Qassim Region takes pride in its heritage and cultural identity. People of Al Qassim preserves their traditions, passing them from one generation to the other. Each year, the Region holds a festival to celebrate its traditional dessert and cultural symbol.
The Kelija Festival is held in Buraidah city, the capital of Al Qassim, in recognition of Kleija’s cultural significance. This annual event aims to preserve the popular heritage of the Region and promote Kleija and other traditional products. It also aims to encourage tourism and support productive families.
Simple Kleija Recipe
Kleija combines a variety of traditional Saudi ingredients, such as dates, cardamom, and black lemon. It is also a great source of energy and power. The dough is made from wheat flour, ghee, milk and sugar, while the stuffing includes a mix of dates, sugar, nuts and spices.
To prepare Kleija, you need these ingredients:
Dough:
- Whole wheat flour (2 cups)
- White flour (2 cups)
- Ghee (1/2 cup)
- Milk powder (2 tablespoons)
- Ground cardamom (1 teaspoon)
- Sugar (1 tablespoon)
- Warm water (1 ¼ cups)
Stuffing:
- Fine sugar (1 cup)
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon)
- Ginger powder (1 tablespoon)
- Crushed black lemon (1 tablespoon)
- Milk or egg yolk for decoration
After preparing all ingredients, follow these simple steps:
- Mix all dry ingredients
- Add ghee and mix until they blend
- Add water gradually and stir until the dough becomes soft
- Cover the dough and leave it for at least 1 hour
- Cut the dough into small balls of equal size
- Add 1-3 tablespoons of water to the stuffing and mix until it blends
- Flatten a ball of dough
- Add 1 tablespoon of stuffing and fold the dough
- Coat the cookie with a layer of milk or egg yolk
- Bake in a pre-heated oven on medium temperature
When all the cookies puff up and get a gold color, Kleija is ready.
This story was originally published ahead of last year’s celebrations.
