Are you planning a trip to Amman and eager to experience the authentic flavors of Jordan? Prepare to be amazed! Amman, the vibrant capital of Jordan, is a city that tantalizes the taste buds, offering a rich tapestry of culinary delights. From aromatic spices and succulent grilled meats to sweet pastries and refreshing drinks, Jordanian cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s warm hospitality and rich history. This insider’s guide will be your passport to navigating Amman’s diverse food scene, helping you discover the must-try dishes, understand local dining customs, and savor the unique ingredients that make Jordanian food so special. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure through the heart of Amman!
A Culinary Journey Through Time: The History of Jordanian Food
Jordanian cuisine, like the nation itself, is a fascinating blend of influences. The country’s strategic location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes has shaped its culinary heritage, drawing inspiration from the Levant, the Arabian Peninsula, and even touches of Mediterranean flavors. For centuries, nomadic Bedouin tribes have roamed the deserts of Jordan, their resourcefulness and traditions deeply influencing the dishes we enjoy today.
The availability of local ingredients also dictates the cuisine. The fertile Jordan Valley provides a rich bounty of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, while the arid desert landscape has influenced the use of preserved foods and spices. Many dishes, like Mansaf, have deep historical roots and are associated with celebrations and traditions passed down through generations. Today, Jordanian cuisine has evolved to embrace modern trends, yet it remains true to its heritage, offering a delicious experience for all who visit.
Local Specialties - The “Must-Try” Dishes in Amman
Amman’s food scene is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, showcasing a spectrum of traditional and modern offerings. Here are some dishes you absolutely cannot miss while exploring the city:
Mansaf: Jordan’s National Treasure
Often considered the national dish of Jordan, Mansaf (منسف) is a culinary masterpiece and a celebratory meal. It features tender lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce (Jameed), served over a bed of fluffy rice. The dish is then garnished with toasted almonds and pine nuts. The Jameed gives the lamb and rice a distinctive, tangy flavor that’s absolutely unforgettable.
- Origin/History: Mansaf is traditionally a Bedouin dish, reflecting the nomadic roots of Jordanian culture. It’s often served at weddings, funerals, and other special occasions, symbolizing generosity and hospitality. Sharing a Mansaf meal is an essential aspect of Jordanian culture.
- Where to Find It: Look for a restaurant specializing in traditional Jordanian cuisine. Mansaf is often on the menu on weekends, as it is usually reserved for celebrations.
Maqluba: “Upside Down” Delight
Maqluba (مقلوبة), meaning “upside down,” is a visually stunning and incredibly flavorful dish of rice, meat (usually lamb or chicken), and vegetables (typically cauliflower, eggplant, and potatoes). The ingredients are cooked together in a pot and then flipped upside down onto a serving platter, creating an impressive presentation. It’s often served with a side of plain yogurt to complement the savory flavors.
- Where to Find It: Many family-run restaurants offer authentic Maqluba, where it is cooked in a special oven.
Musakhan: A Taste of Palestine in Jordan
While technically of Palestinian origin, Musakhan (مسخن) has become incredibly popular in Jordan. It’s a flavorful roasted chicken dish cooked with onions, sumac, and pine nuts, served on flatbread. The onions are caramelized with sumac, which gives them a unique tangy and slightly sour taste that balances beautifully with the chicken.
- Where to Find It: Seek out restaurants serving Palestinian food, or sometimes you might find it as a dish on offer in a more general Middle-Eastern restaurant.
Fatteh: A Versatile Crowd-Pleaser
Fatteh (فتة) is a versatile dish with several variations. It is made with layers of crispy flatbread, chickpeas, yogurt, and topped with tahini, olive oil, and often meat (lamb or chicken). Fatteh is a popular breakfast or lunch dish and its adaptability makes it a staple in many Jordanian households.
- Where to Find It: Street food vendors and casual restaurants serve up delicious Fatteh throughout the city. Be sure to ask for the variety that you like best!
Falafel: A Street Food Staple
Though found throughout the Middle East, Jordanian falafel (فلافل) is a must-try. These deep-fried chickpea balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served in pita bread with tahini sauce, hummus, and fresh vegetables. It’s a quick, affordable, and incredibly satisfying meal, perfect for a snack or a light lunch.
- Where to Find It: Falafel is available in various street food stalls, restaurants, and cafes across Amman.
Hummus: The Creamy Classic
A staple in Jordanian cuisine, hummus (حمص) is a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, and garlic. It’s typically served with warm pita bread and often topped with olive oil and paprika. Hummus is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal.
- Where to Find It: Hummus is available everywhere from street food vendors to high-end restaurants!
Knafeh: A Sweet Finale
Knafeh (كنافة) is a sweet dessert made with shredded phyllo pastry or fine semolina dough, layered with a sweet, cheesy filling, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and often topped with crushed pistachios. It’s a decadent and delicious treat, especially enjoyed after a meal or with a cup of strong Arabic coffee.
- Where to Find It: Knafeh is available at dedicated dessert shops and some cafes specializing in Middle Eastern sweets.
Dining Etiquette and Cultural Norms in Amman
Understanding local customs adds depth to your dining experiences in Amman. Here are some key etiquette tips to keep in mind:
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Tipping: Tipping is customary, although not always expected. A tip of 10% of the bill is generally appreciated for good service in restaurants. For smaller services, such as a taxi ride, rounding up the fare is considered polite.
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Greetings: When entering a restaurant, it’s polite to greet the staff with “As-salamu alaykum” (Peace be upon you) or a simple “Marhaba” (Hello). Showing politeness goes a long way.
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Sharing Food: Sharing food is a sign of hospitality and generosity in Jordan. Don’t be surprised if dishes are brought to the table for everyone to share. This is the norm!
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Using Utensils: While you can use utensils, it is common to use your right hand (only!) to eat some dishes, such as mansaf or rice, and to tear off pieces of bread to scoop up food. Avoid using your left hand, as it is traditionally considered unclean.
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Pace of Dining: Meals are often a leisurely affair, and it is polite to take your time and enjoy the company of your fellow diners. Don’t rush the meal!
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Dress Code: While Amman is a relatively modern city, it’s advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional restaurants or more conservative areas. Avoid revealing clothing and consider covering your shoulders and knees. In higher-end restaurants, it is best to dress up slightly.
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Ordering Water: Bottled water is widely available and often preferred by tourists. If you are given water, it is not unusual to take it even if you don’t need it. It is considered rude to reject water.
Key Local Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
These ingredients are fundamental to Jordanian cuisine, lending their unique flavors and textures to many dishes:
Jameed: The Heart of Mansaf
Jameed (جميد) is a hard, dried yogurt product made from sheep or goat’s milk, which forms the base for the sauce in Mansaf. Jameed has a salty and tangy flavor, and it’s ground into a powder or soaked in water to create the creamy sauce. If you can’t find it, you can use a combination of plain yogurt, buttermilk, and a touch of salt and lemon juice to approximate the flavor, but there is no real substitute for authentic Jameed.
Sumac: A Tangy Touch
Sumac (سماق) is a dark red spice made from the dried berries of the sumac plant. It has a tangy, lemony flavor and is used in a variety of dishes, including Musakhan, salads, and marinades. If you can’t find it, you can try using a combination of lemon zest and a pinch of vinegar or tamarind for a similar tartness.
Za’atar: An Aromatic Blend
Za’atar (زعتر) is a blend of herbs and spices, typically including dried thyme, oregano, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. Za’atar has a savory, earthy flavor and is used as a seasoning, a dip (mixed with olive oil), or sprinkled on bread and other dishes. If you can’t find it, you can try mixing dried thyme, oregano, and sesame seeds with a pinch of salt and sumac.
Olive Oil: The Golden Elixir
High-quality olive oil (زيت زيتون) is a staple in Jordanian cooking, used for cooking, drizzling, and dipping. Jordanian olive oil is known for its rich, fruity flavor. If you can’t find Jordanian olive oil, use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil from your region.
Arabic Bread (Khubz Arabi): The Perfect Companion
Arabic bread (Khubz Arabi) (خبز عربي) is a staple of the Jordanian diet. This flatbread is used to scoop up food, and is also eaten on its own with things like Za’atar and Olive Oil. Arabic bread comes in a variety of sizes and thicknesses. It’s a simple, versatile bread that’s perfect for dipping or wrapping around fillings. If you can’t find it, try using other types of flatbread, such as pita bread or naan.
5 Interesting Facts About Amman You May Not Know
Here are some fascinating tidbits about Amman, showcasing its history, culture, and unique characteristics:
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Amman is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Neolithic period. This is a city with thousands of years of history.
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The city is built on seven hills, a characteristic that has shaped its urban layout and offers stunning panoramic views from various points. This is the origin of the city’s nickname: “The City of Seven Hills.”
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Amman has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and music venues showcasing both traditional and contemporary art forms. There is so much to discover for the art enthusiast.
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Jordan’s Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and is a popular day trip from Amman. You should take a visit if you can! It is a popular destination for both its unique beauty and its purported health benefits.
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The Roman Theatre in Amman is a well-preserved ancient structure that once seated thousands of spectators and continues to host cultural events today. Experience a bit of Roman history as well!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dining in Amman
Are reservations required at most restaurants? Reservations are recommended, especially for popular restaurants and during peak dining hours (lunch and dinner). For smaller, more casual establishments, you may be able to walk in.
Is it safe to drink the tap water? It is generally not recommended for tourists to drink tap water. Stick to bottled water, which is readily available and affordable.
What’s the best way to find authentic local food markets? Visit the central markets like the Souk El-Sukar (Sugar Market) and the Balad (downtown Amman). These are excellent places to find fresh produce, spices, and other local ingredients. You may also stumble upon food stalls!
Are there any food-related festivals I should know about? Keep an eye out for seasonal food festivals that may celebrate specific dishes, ingredients (like olive oil or dates), or cultural events. These festivals can be a great way to sample local specialties and experience the vibrant food culture of Amman.
How do I ask for the bill in the local language? You can say, “Al-hisab, min fadlak” (الحساب، من فضلك), which means “The bill, please.”
Is it common to order multiple courses? Ordering multiple courses isn’t necessarily the norm, but it’s perfectly acceptable. Often, meals are a collection of shared dishes. Many restaurants offer a menu of small plates to start.
Are credit cards widely accepted? Credit cards are accepted in most mid-range to high-end restaurants and hotels. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments, street food vendors, and markets.
Amman’s culinary scene is a captivating journey of flavors, aromas, and traditions. From the heartwarming taste of Mansaf to the simplicity of falafel, the diverse food options will surely delight your senses. Use this guide as a starting point to explore the best restaurants, master the local customs, and discover the amazing Jordanian ingredients. Go forth and experience the remarkable cuisine of Amman!
Share your favorite Jordanian dish or culinary experience in the comments below!