Roast lamb with tart yogurt sauce, syrupy pastries, and endless sweet tea and strong coffee: a trip to Jordan is a culinary experience that will leave you craving more. Read on to learn about the distinct flavors of Levantine cuisine, and where to try it all.
## A Culinary Journey Through Jordan: A Feast for the Senses
Jordan, a land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes, is also a haven for food enthusiasts. While it may not boast an officially declared “national dish,” the culinary scene in Jordan is rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in tradition. Prepare your palate for an adventure as we explore some of the must-try foods in Jordan, each a testament to the country’s vibrant culture and history.
## Mansaf: The King of Jordanian Cuisine
If Jordan were to bestow the honor of “national dish,” there’s no doubt that *mansaf* would reign supreme. This isn’t merely a meal; it’s an experience, a celebration, and a symbol of Jordanian hospitality. Imagine a generous platter piled high with incredibly tender lamb, so succulent it practically melts in your mouth. The meat rests upon a bed of fragrant rice, each grain infused with the rich flavors of the land. But the true magic of mansaf lies in the *jameed*, a unique and defining ingredient.
*Jameed* is essentially dried balls of goat’s milk yogurt, a traditional preservation method that dates back centuries. These hardened yogurt spheres are rehydrated into a tart and tangy broth, creating a sauce unlike any other. This flavorful broth is then ladled lavishly over the lamb and rice, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that dance on your tongue. To complete this masterpiece, slivered almonds are delicately sprinkled on top, adding a touch of elegance and a satisfying crunch.
For an authentic taste of mansaf, many Jordanians will tell you that the best versions are found in the warmth of a family home. However, if you’re seeking a restaurant experience, a truly reliable and reputable option is **Sufra**, an elegant restaurant nestled on Amman’s lively Rainbow Street. The restaurant itself is a visual treat, housed in a charming garden-wrapped building adorned with intricate tile floors and expansive windows that offer picturesque views of the surrounding patio. Locals will readily confirm that the generous portion of mansaf served here is remarkably close to what you’d find prepared by a loving mother.
And to end your culinary experience on a sweet note, do not miss the opportunity to savor a serving of *um ali*, Jordan’s delightful answer to bread pudding. This decadent dessert is infused with the aromatic essence of pistachios and rose water, offering a truly unforgettable conclusion to your mansaf feast. Be warned, though: a post-lunch nap might be necessary after such a fulfilling and satisfying meal!
## Falafel: A Middle Eastern Staple with a Jordanian Twist
Falafel, those irresistible golden balls of ground chickpeas, are a beloved fast-food favorite throughout the Middle East and beyond. And in Jordan, these crispy delights are available at almost every corner. While falafel can be enjoyed on its own, the quintessential way to savor it in Jordan is in sandwich form. Picture this: warm, fluffy pita bread enveloping a handful of freshly fried falafel, generously dusted with the tangy spice of sumac. It’s easy to eat, perfectly portable, and guaranteed to satisfy.
In Amman, a pilgrimage to **Al-Quds** on Rainbow Street is a must. This unassuming sandwich window churns out cheap and utterly delicious falafel sandwiches, served on sesame bread and dressed generously with fresh tomatoes and tangy pickles. It’s a quick, satisfying, and affordable taste of Jordanian street food at its finest.
But for a truly exceptional falafel experience, venture outside Amman to the historic town of **Madaba**. This town is renowned for its stunning Byzantine floor mosaic, considered to be the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land. However, beyond the ancient history lies a culinary gem: **Shaheen Restaurant**. Just around the corner from the bustling tour bus parking, this local hangout serves up some of the tastiest falafel sandwiches in all of Jordan.
Here, you’ll be presented with fluffy balls of falafel, still piping hot from the fryer, nestled in a fresh pita and doused in a homemade sauce that can be tailored to your desired level of spiciness. It’s no surprise that this is a local favorite, and you won’t regret choosing it over the more tourist-oriented options on Madaba’s main street. If you are fortunate, you might witness the owner in action, orchestrating a one-man assembly line, frying an astounding number of falafel balls in a single, enormous pan. It’s a sight to behold, and a testament to the enduring popularity of this simple yet satisfying dish.
## Maqluba: The Upside-Down Delight
The name of this dish provides an essential clue to its preparation: *maqluba* translates to “upside down” in Arabic, a fitting description for this unique culinary creation. Maqluba is essentially a one-pot meal consisting of stewed meat, often tender chicken, combined with layers of sliced eggplant, cauliflower, and rice. All these ingredients are cooked together in a harmonious symphony of flavors. The magic happens when the entire pot is flipped upside down onto a serving plate, revealing a beautiful and fragrant tower of deliciousness.
The flavors of maqluba are further enhanced by the addition of cinnamon, garlic, and *baharat*, a captivating spice blend that includes clove and nutmeg. This combination creates a warming and comforting dish that is perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Similar to mansaf, the most authentic and memorable maqluba experiences are often found within the welcoming embrace of a Jordanian home. If you seek a truly local encounter, consider aiming for an invitation into a Jordanian home to sample this beloved specialty. Alternatively, take matters into your own hands by booking a meal or a homestay experience, immersing yourself in the warmth and hospitality of Jordanian culture.
For a truly immersive experience, consider working up an appetite with an organized hike in the breathtaking **Ajloun Forest Reserve** before indulging in a delightful lunch with your local guide and their family. This offers not only a delicious meal but also a chance to connect with the people and traditions of Jordan on a deeper level.
Another option for experiencing the magic of maqluba is to participate in a traditional cooking class. **Beit Sitti** in Amman offers maqluba as one of its menu options, providing an opportunity to learn the secrets of this dish from a professional chef. After mastering the art of maqluba, you’ll be equipped to recreate this culinary masterpiece for your friends and family back home, sharing a taste of Jordan with those you cherish.
No matter how you choose to experience maqluba, be prepared for a feast. This dish is typically accompanied by an array of side dishes, such as *fattoush*, a vibrant vegetable salad with crispy pita bits and sumac, and *mouttabal*, a smoky and flavorful roasted eggplant dip with lemon and garlic. So, come hungry and ready to savor a truly unforgettable Jordanian meal.
## Manakish Za’atar: Aromatic Flatbread
Za’atar, a fragrant and ubiquitous spice blend in the Middle East, holds a special place in Jordanian cuisine. It seems like every country, city, and even family has their own unique recipe for this beloved spice mixture. The foundation of za’atar typically consists of dried wild thyme, toasted sesame seeds, salt, and the tangy spice of sumac. However, the exact ratios and additions can vary greatly. Cumin, fennel, or other local favorites are often incorporated into the mix, creating a diverse range of za’atar variations.
Jordanian cuisine particularly favors the Palestinian blend, which is often characterized by its generous use of salt and sesame, and the occasional addition of caraway. But the true magic of za’atar is often experienced in the form of *manakish za’atar*, a delightful flatbread generously topped with olive oil and its namesake spice.
The word “manakish” originates from an Arabic word meaning “carve out.” This refers to the unique method of preparation: after the dough is flattened, fingertips are used to press small divots into the surface, creating pockets for the savory toppings to settle in.
Manakish is a versatile dish, enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or as a simple snack. You can walk into almost any bakery at any time of day and be sure to find a fresh and flavorful manakish waiting for you. In the northern town of Ajloun, a visit to **Barhoum Bakery** is a must after exploring the nearby crusader castle. This region is renowned for its production of heavenly olive oil, and you’ll undoubtedly taste the difference in the quality of the manakish.
While you’re at Barhoum Bakery, be sure to pick up some *kibbeh* to go. These fried croquettes feature an outer shell made of bulgar wheat, onion, and ground beef, encasing a delicious filling of spiced meat and pine nuts. It’s the perfect complement to your manakish za’atar. In Aqaba, **Tarboush Bakery** and **Baba Za’atar** are also excellent choices for manakish. Baba Za’atar is particularly known for its “Jordanian pizza,” a unique and flavorful twist on the classic flatbread that is well worth trying.
## Sayadieh: A Taste of the Red Sea
Jordan’s southwestern edge graces the **Red Sea**, and naturally, seafood takes center stage on the menus of restaurants in this region. One dish you simply must try is *sayadieh*, a Lebanese creation that perfectly pairs baked or fried white fish with a divine rice mixture. This flavorful rice is typically infused with a heady combination of saffron, caramelized onions, almonds, citrus, and pine nuts, creating a symphony of tastes that complement the delicate flavor of the fish.
**Aqaba**, the port city renowned for its luxurious resorts, world-class diving, and tax-free shopping, offers a plethora of restaurants serving sayadieh. The featured fish is often the locally caught catch of the day, ensuring a fresh and authentic experience.
The Red Sea Grill at the Movenpick Resort is a sophisticated choice for sayadieh, a mainstay on its consistent menu. You can enjoy your meal outdoors, soaking in the stunning sea views. And if you’re feeling adventurous, the seafood couscous soup is another excellent option.
**Captain’s** is another popular choice in Aqaba. While it is undeniably touristy, and the prices may reflect that, the seafood is reliably fresh and tasty. Don’t be surprised to find yourself surrounded by sunburned families enjoying their meals.
## Knafeh: A Sweet Symphony of Textures
*Knafeh*, a popular dessert throughout the Arab world, seems to defy logic with its contrasting textures and flavors. Syrupy, cheesy, crunchy, and gooey all at once, it somehow manages to create a harmonious and utterly irresistible treat. Knafeh is essentially a pastry filled with a soft, mild white cheese and topped with a *kataifi* crust, made from shredded phyllo dough. This is then soaked in a sugar syrup infused with the aromatic essence of rose or orange blossom water and finally garnished with pistachios.
**Habibah Sweets** is widely regarded as the best purveyor of knafeh in Jordan. Their location in Amman’s bustling city center is a pilgrimage site for dessert lovers. The store itself is modest, consisting of little more than a glass counter and a few giant, round trays of knafeh and other sweets like baklava and *osh el bulbul*, fried kataifi nests wrapped around pistachios or pine nuts.
If you find yourself exploring the ancient northern city of **Jerash**, **Green Salon Sweets** is the perfect place to grab a fresh square of knafeh and refuel after wandering through the city’s remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins.
## Limonana: A Refreshing Oasis
Even outside the summer months, Jordan can experience intense heat. A popular and refreshing remedy is *limonana*, a Middle Eastern twist on lemonade that combines fresh lemon juice, mint leaves, and a touch of sugar. This invigorating beverage is prepared by blending the ingredients together. Alternatively, it can be made by simply muddling the mint and lemon together, in which case it’s often referred to as *nenae ma’a lemon*, meaning “lemon with mint.” Sometimes served frozen, this tart and minty concoction is a true boon on Jordan’s sun-drenched days.
Limonana is a common offering on menus throughout Jordan, and generally, it’s delicious everywhere. For a limonana break while shopping in Amman’s city center, head to **Ananas** on Al Malek Faisal, conveniently located just down the block from the world-famous hummus shop, **Hashem**.
You can also find an exceptionally fancy version of limonana at the luxurious hotel complex, **Hyatt Zaman**, located just outside of Petra. But perhaps the most memorable limonana experience is to be had while relaxing at the small café in front of the majestic **Monastery** in **Petra**. After conquering the 900 steps to reach this iconic landmark, you’ve certainly earned a refreshing limonana. And to top it off, the lemons used are sourced from a nearby orchard, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful taste.
## Arabic Coffee & Bedouin Tea: A Warm Welcome
Prepare yourself to be caffeinated! No matter where your travels take you in Jordan, you will undoubtedly be offered cup after cup of coffee or tea, a testament to the country’s renowned hospitality.
While espresso and “American” filter coffee can be found in some restaurants and cafés, you’ll primarily be drinking coffee the Arabic way. Also known as Turkish or Armenian coffee, this brewing style involves pouring hot water directly over finely ground coffee beans in a long-stemmed pot, resulting in a thick, strong brew that is often spiced with cardamom. It’s typically served in small cups with a generous helping of sugar.
Tea is similarly strong and sweet, though instead of cardamom, you can expect to find fresh leaves of sage or mint infusing your glass, adding a refreshing herbal note to the beverage.
Where should you partake in these quintessential Jordanian drinks? The answer is: anywhere and everywhere! One particularly memorable coffee experience can be found in Jabal Amman at the unassuming **Ayman Coffee Shop**. The owner has perfected an unusual method of brewing coffee over hot sand, a captivating process that is a sight to behold. This is also an excellent place to visit if you’re feeling under the weather. A whole slew of tonics are on offer, including a divine mixture of hot water with lemon, ginger, and honey.
Tea is most satisfying when enjoyed in the relaxing lounge areas of camps in **Wadi Rum** and outside of **Petra**. **Seven Wonders Camp** and **Sun City** are two highly recommended options. You can also find welcoming roadside and trail-side stands throughout the country, offering a chance to pause, refresh, and connect with the local culture over a steaming cup of tea.