Any visitor to Jordan will be amazed by the flavours of the local cuisine. This is a country traversed by the ancient Spice Route and so the cooking is very distinctive. Here are some of the highlights.
Traditionally Bedouin
One of the classic dishes seen in Jordan is a Bedouin specialty. Mensaf is a lamb, rice and pine nut dish combined with yoghurt. This was traditionally served at local feasts but can now be found in most restaurants. In true Bedouin style it is cooked in a zerb oven which is basically a hole in the sand and firewood. A Jordanian mixed grill is also highly recommended with delicious barbecued meats.
Mezes
A platter of traditional mezes comes out with most meals and is often a meal in itself. Plump Arab bread, succulent olives and bowls of hummus, baba ghanoush and more are there for dipping. As a prelude to a meal they are tasty and filling.
Staple Jordanian
Falafel is the simplest of food and is served with pitta, salad and hummus. Watching the falafel makers is entertaining as they whip up the Middle Eastern takeaway in seconds. Falafel is cheap, made of spiced chick peas, and absolutely delicious.
Arab sweets
Walk past any Jordanian sweet shop and the rows of nougat, peanut brittle and pistachio flavoured delicacies will tempt you inside. These exquisite and tasty treats are often served at the end of a meal, or can be purchased by the box or bagful from stores. Tempting as they are, the calorific value is very high. Look for a Kunafa stand where Jordan’s favourite dessert is served on the street. Cottage cheese with a syrupy crust makes this a favourite pudding with the crowds in Amman.
Drinks
Jordan is renowned for cardamom coffee and mint tea, but there are other lesser known drinks. Lemon juice with mint is a luminous green creation made with natural produce and highly refreshing on a hot day. Although Jordan is an Islamic country it does produce its own wine. Saint George is the best known variety and is popular in restaurants.
This is just a taste of what Jordan has to offer in culinary highlights. By visiting there are opportunities to discover even more delicious dishes from fresh Aqaba fish to chicken kebabs and hibiscus juice.
