Ahmed Raad serves "Al-Mustawa" from his cart in Bab Al-Jadid, Mosul, as customers gather for the popular winter dish. (Photo: 964media)
Turnips and beets
Al-Mustawa: A Mosul winter dish served from a street cart
NINEVEH — In Mosul’s winter months, locals flock to street vendors for a dish known as “Al-Mustawa” or “Al-Mayeh,” made from boiled turnips and beets. Ahmed Raad has been selling the meal for five years in the Bab Al-Jadid area, maintaining a clean, well-organized cart that attracts customers from nearby villages and neighborhoods.
“I sell ‘Al-Mustawa’ in Bab Al-Jadid, and it has been five years since I started selling it here,” Raad told 964media. “People come to me because I make sure to serve the dish clean and well-prepared.”
Raad said he sources his ingredients from the local Al-Alwa market. “I buy the produce there, take it home to clean, peel and cook, then bring it here to sell.”
He noted that demand for the dish increases after sunset, especially when it rains. “It’s a winter meal, and people come for ‘Al-Mustawa’ in the evening when the time is right.”
Mosul residents refer to the dish simply as “Al-Mustawa” or “Al-Mayeh.” Unlike Baghdad’s version, where date syrup is added, Raad explained, “We prepare it in Mosul the traditional way, without any additives.”
Prices range between 500 and 1,000 IQD ($0.33 to $0.66) per serving, depending on portion size. After eating, customers often enjoy a warm cup of beetroot water.
“I only open my cart in winter, and I have completely repainted and organized it, as well as set up proper lighting,” Raad said. “It’s a simple meal—just turnips and beets—but everyone loves it, both young and old.”
Regular customer Qusay Nadhir said, “After dinner, we come here to have a plate of ‘Al-Mustawa,’ followed by a cup of its warm broth. It nourishes the body, especially in winter.” He added, “Mosul’s ‘Al-Mustawa’ is famous in homes and on the streets. What Ahmed serves is loved by all ages.”
