Exploring Kurdish Street Food with Luke Damant: The Quest for the Greatest Crepe in Slemani, Iraq
For travelers looking to explore the rich and diverse culture of Kurdistan in Iraq, one of the most exciting ways to experience the region is through its vibrant street food. Australian YouTuber Luke Damant does just that in his latest vlog, Kurdistan's Greatest Crepe Cooker (watch the full video here), as he embarks on a culinary journey through the streets of Slemani (Sulaymaniyah), one of Kurdistan’s most fascinating cities.
In this article, we’ll explore Luke Damant’s food adventure in Slemani, offering an in-depth look at his quest for the best crepe, his experiences with other local street food, and why this vibrant city is a must-visit destination for food lovers and travelers alike.
Arrival in Slemani: The Start of a Culinary Adventure
Luke Damant’s street food adventure in Slemani begins after a long day of travel. Accompanied by his friend Mac, Luke heads out into the bustling streets of Slemani to satisfy their hunger after eight hours without food. The city is alive with energy, as street vendors line the sidewalks, offering a variety of delicious local treats.
Slemani, also known as Sulaymaniyah, is one of the largest cities in Iraqi Kurdistan, known for its rich culture, warm hospitality, and vibrant food scene. It’s the perfect place for Luke to dive into Kurdish street food, starting with his favorite indulgence—crepes.
The Search for the Perfect Crepe
One of the main highlights of Luke’s vlog is his visit to a local crepe vendor, who he refers to as “Kurdistan’s greatest crepe cooker.” Located on a busy street corner, this crepe stand offers a variety of sweet and savory options, making it a popular spot for locals and travelers alike.
Luke wastes no time in placing his order, opting for a Nutella, banana, and Oreo crepe—an indulgent combination of flavors that promises to satisfy any sweet tooth. As the crepe is being prepared, Luke describes the smell of the freshly cooked pancake as “a gateway to diabetes,” joking about the sheer amount of sugar and calories involved.
The vendor expertly prepares the crepe, adding layers of Nutella, sliced bananas, and crushed Oreos before folding it into a neat parcel. Luke is visibly excited as he watches the process, eagerly anticipating his first bite.
Travel Tip:
If you’re visiting Slemani, don’t miss out on the chance to try a Kurdish crepe. These street vendors often offer a variety of fillings, from classic Nutella to unique local ingredients, allowing you to customize your crepe to your liking.
The Taste Test: Nutella, Banana, and Oreo Crepe
After receiving his crepe, Luke dives in for the taste test. The combination of Nutella, banana, and Oreo proves to be a hit, with the crunchy Oreos adding texture to the soft, gooey interior. Luke describes the crepe as “a solid bite,” remarking on the delicious blend of flavors that work together perfectly.
For Luke, the Oreo is a standout addition to the traditional Nutella and banana combination, providing a satisfying crunch that elevates the overall experience. He praises the vendor for his skill, noting that this crepe might just be one of the best he’s ever had.
As he finishes the last few bites, Luke reflects on the sheer decadence of the crepe, noting that it’s the kind of treat that’s perfect for those looking to indulge while exploring Slemani’s street food scene.
A Corn on the Cob Experience: Fresh and Flavorful
After finishing his crepe, Luke continues his food journey by stopping at another local vendor, this time for freshly grilled corn on the cob. The vendor fires up the grill, roasting the corn over an open flame, which adds a smoky flavor to the sweet kernels.
In true Kurdish style, the corn is seasoned with salt, but Luke decides to keep it simple and opts out of the popular pomegranate juice topping that is often added for a sweet-and-tangy twist. He takes his first bite and is immediately impressed by the freshness and flavor of the corn, declaring it to be one of the best he’s ever had.
The corn, which Luke describes as “steaming hot” and “fresh as can be,” offers a welcome contrast to the sweetness of the crepe. It’s a lighter, savory snack that highlights the variety of street food available in Slemani.
Travel Tip:
When exploring street food in Kurdistan, don’t hesitate to try local favorites like grilled corn on the cob. Vendors often add unique toppings such as salt, lemon, or pomegranate juice, which add a burst of flavor to this simple yet satisfying snack.
A Halftime Break: Shisha and Conversations with Locals
As Luke and Mac continue their evening of food exploration, they decide to take a break and enjoy a session of shisha at a local café. Shisha, also known as hookah, is a popular pastime in Iraq and the wider Middle East, offering a relaxing way to unwind after a meal.
The café offers a variety of shisha flavors, and Luke is quick to note the unique cooling system that uses ice to keep the smoke smooth and refreshing. As they puff on their shisha, Luke and Mac reflect on their food experiences so far, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Slemani’s bustling streets.
Throughout the vlog, Luke interacts with locals, showcasing the friendly and welcoming nature of the Kurdish people. From vendors to café patrons, everyone he meets is eager to engage in conversation, offering insights into local culture and cuisine.
Travel Tip:
If you’re visiting Kurdistan, be sure to take time to enjoy a shisha session at a local café. It’s a great way to relax and connect with locals, who are often happy to share stories and recommendations for exploring the area.
Luke’s Crepe-Making Challenge: A Fun Twist
Towards the end of the vlog, Luke is invited to try his hand at making a crepe himself. Taking over from the vendor, he attempts to recreate the Nutella, banana, and Oreo crepe. While the process is more challenging than it looks, Luke’s final creation turns out surprisingly well, much to the delight of the vendor and onlookers.
This hands-on experience highlights the fun and interactive nature of Kurdistan’s street food scene, where vendors are often happy to let customers get involved in the cooking process. It’s a playful moment that adds a personal touch to Luke’s food adventure, showcasing the warmth and hospitality of the local community.
Travel Tip:
When exploring street food in Kurdistan, don’t be afraid to engage with vendors and ask questions about how the food is prepared. Many vendors are happy to share their cooking techniques and may even let you try making something yourself!
Conclusion: Why Slemani’s Street Food is a Must-Try for Travelers
Luke Damant’s street food adventure in Slemani offers a tantalizing glimpse into the rich culinary culture of Kurdistan. From the decadent Nutella, banana, and Oreo crepe to the fresh corn on the cob, Luke’s experience showcases the variety and quality of the local street food scene.
For travelers to Iraq, particularly those visiting Kurdistan, Slemani is a must-visit destination for food lovers. The city’s vibrant streets are filled with vendors offering everything from traditional Kurdish dishes to modern twists on classic street food favorites. Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or smoky, Slemani has something to offer every palate.
As Luke’s vlog demonstrates, the hospitality of the Kurdish people is second to none, making any food adventure in the region not just a culinary journey but a cultural one as well. For those looking to explore the flavors of Kurdistan, Slemani’s street food scene is the perfect place to start.
Final Travel Tip:
If you’re planning a trip to Slemani, be sure to set aside time to explore the local street food scene. From crepes to shawarma and beyond, the city offers a diverse range of flavors that are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
For more insights into Luke Damant’s travels through Kurdistan and his other global adventures, watch the full video on YouTube, and don’t forget to subscribe to his channel for more exciting travel content!