National cuisine of Jordan for gourmets. Authentic recipes, delicacies and specialties

Jordanian cuisine has much in common with cuisines of other Arabian countries. However, it has unique dishes and traditions. Interestingly, tourists sometimes recognize Jordanian cuisine outside the borders of the country. For example, these dishes are popular and widely used in such countries as Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and the United Arab Emirates. For example, Shawarma is popular and delicious in Jordan, just like in other countries of the Middle East. Authentic local Shawarma contains something like pancakes with meat stuffing and lots of greens. People in the Middle East do not eat pork because this is prohibited by Islam, but chicken and lamb meat are very popular.

Tourists thinking of a place to dine are not limited to the national cuisine only. There are many restaurants specializing in Japanese, Chinese, and European cuisines. They are suitable for everyone who doesn’t like experimenting and prefers the tastes they know. However, to feel the true heritage of the Middle East, it is still better to visit dukkan. This is an establishment that offers a broad range of Middle Eastern dishes. The atmosphere, hospitality, service – everything is authentic and in line with the traditions of the region.

When describing classical Jordan cuisine, Mansaf should be named first. This dish contains lamb meat boiled in sour cream and then served with rice. Yes, the meat is boiled, not stewed! Mansaf is a traditional festive dish in the country. Hosts often make it when they have guests. In Jordan, there is also a tradition to cook Mansaf using Labneh strained yogurt. The dish is usually served in a big flat plate. First, a thick layer of rice is put on the plate. After that, finely chopped meat is added on top of the rice. The dish is covered with roasted nuts as a final touch. There is also a variation of Mansaf with a big flatbread as a base layer before rice. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Adas is a typical everyday dish in Jordan. It contains lentils, chicken meat, onion, and lemon juice. This is a delicious and hearty stew that is usually served in cooler weather. Maqluba is one more unusual and very delicious dish. The name of this dish can be translated as “upside-down”, and this is a very precise description of Maqluba. Potatoes with eggplants are roasted with meat (both lamb and beef can be used in Maqluba). After that, roasted rice, spices, and water are added. All ingredients are cooked until they are ready. When the dish is ready, the frying pan is covered with a big plate, and the whole dish is turned around. Maqluba is usually served with a creamy sauce.

If you plan to visit a Jordanian tavern, we recommend trying Molokhia, delicious meat soup with garlic, rice, and lemon. There can be several variations of Molokhia with rabbit, chicken, and lamb. The dish has an unusual and distinctive taste because of herbs that grow mostly in the Middle East. Local cafes and restaurants also offer bean cutlets, a cheap and nutritious dish. These cutlets contain sesame oil and a special crusty cover made of mashed beans.

Coffee is the most popular hot drink in Jordan. Neighbor countries like Syria and Lebanon prefer deep roasted coffee with pepper. In Jordan, however, people prefer lightly roasted coffee. As a rule, locals prefer coffee with cardamom – this type of drink is known as Qahwa Sadad. Coffee is quite expensive in Jordan, but its quality is always high. It is not hard to find alcoholic drinks. Tourists may find it interesting to try local Arak anise vodka. It is usually served diluted with water or with ice cubes.

If you are not sure about delicious souvenirs from Jordan to friends and family members, pay your attention to sweets, fruits, nuts, and fabulous national coffee. It is believed that local oriental sweets are even more delicious than the ones made in Turkey. Cookies with sesame seeds, baklava, candied fruit and rose petals – sweet tooths will enjoy their stay in Jordan. It is better to gift a pack of coffee together with a bag of cardamom. This way, the recipient of your gift will be able to drink authentic Jordan coffee. Pistachios, cashews, and almonds are available not only raw but also in a yogurt glazing.