Ultimate Guide to Jordan: Best Food And Drinks

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy falafel, its crispy exterior giving way to a vibrant green interior bursting with herbs and spices. Picture yourself in a bustling Amman market, the air filled with the aroma of roasting lamb and sweet mint tea. This, my friend, is just a glimpse into the vibrant world of Jordanian cuisine.

This guide is your passport to the most delicious food and drink experiences Jordan has to offer. Whether you're exploring the ancient city of Petra, venturing into the desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, or simply strolling through the vibrant streets of Amman, your taste buds are in for a treat when you visit Jordan.

From the national dish of Mansaf, a hearty lamb stew served with rice and a tangy fermented yoghurt sauce called Jameed, to the ubiquitous hummus, a creamy chickpea dip that's a staple at every meal, get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you wanting more.

In this guide, we will attempt to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting the site, including:

What are the Best Drinks to Try in Jordan? What are Some Tips for Dining in Jordan? Where Can I Find the Best Food in Jordan? - more.

What is Jordanian Food Like?

Jordanian cuisine is a captivating blend of Middle Eastern food and flavours, shaped by the country's rich Bedouin heritage and its location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes. Imagine aromatic spices like cumin and cardamom mingling with fresh herbs like mint and parsley, all enhanced by the generous use of olive oil and lemon juice.

Sharing is a cornerstone of Jordanian dining culture, and meals often feature an array of colourful and flavourful dishes designed for communal enjoyment. Expect to find an abundance of fresh vegetables, tender meats grilled to perfection, and hearty stews that warm the soul.

Whether you're savouring the rich flavours of a slow-cooked dish or delighting in the delicate sweetness of a traditional pastry, Jordanian cuisine offers a truly unforgettable culinary adventure. It's a cuisine that nourishes both body and soul, reflecting the warmth and generosity of Jordanian hospitality.

What are the Must-Try Dishes in Jordan?

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey through Jordan's diverse culinary landscape! Here are some of the top dishes you absolutely must try during your visit:

• Mansaf: As the national dish of Jordan, Mansaf holds a special place in Jordanian culture. This celebratory dish features tender lamb cooked in a rich, fermented dried yoghurt sauce called Jameed and served on a bed of rice with toasted pine nuts. Often enjoyed at weddings and special occasions, Mansaf is a true embodiment of Jordanian hospitality and a must-try for any visitor.
• Falafel: These crispy, golden-brown fritters made from chickpeas or fava beans are a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and a common street food in Jordan. Often served in pita bread with hummus, tahini sauce, and salad, falafel in Jordan is a delicious and affordable way to experience authentic Jordanian flavours.
• Hummus: No trip to Jordan is complete without indulging in creamy, flavourful hummus. This classic dip, made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, is a staple at every meal and a must-try in Jordan. Enjoy it as part of a mezze platter or with warm pita bread for a truly satisfying snack.
• Maqluba: Meaning "upside-down" in Arabic, Maqluba is a hearty and flavourful rice dish that's sure to impress. This traditional Jordanian dish features layers of rice, vegetables (such as aubergine, cauliflower, and potatoes), and meat (often chicken or lamb) cooked in a pot and then flipped onto a serving plate to reveal a beautiful, layered presentation.
• Musakhan: This popular Jordanian dish features roasted chicken baked with onions, sumac, pine nuts, and olive oil on top of taboon bread. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and slightly sweet bread creates a truly delicious and memorable culinary experience.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes to try in Jordan. With its diverse culinary landscape and rich cultural heritage, Jordan offers a truly unforgettable food journey for every visitor. So, embrace the opportunity to try lots of dishes and discover your own favourites!

What are the Best Drinks to Try in Jordan?

Beyond the delicious food, Jordan offers a range of refreshing and flavourful drinks to quench your thirst. Here are a few drinks you must try in Jordan:

• Arabic Coffee: Often flavoured with cardamom, this strong, aromatic coffee is an integral part of Jordanian culture and a symbol of hospitality. You'll find it served in cafes and restaurants throughout the country, often accompanied by sweet dates.
• Mint Tea: Known as "shai bi nana," this sweet and refreshing tea is a national drink and a staple in Jordanian households. Made with fresh mint leaves and plenty of sugar, it's the perfect way to cool down on a hot day and a delightful accompaniment to any meal.
• Jallab: This unique drink made from grape molasses, rose water, and pine nuts is a popular choice during Ramadan. Its sweet and slightly tart flavour is incredibly refreshing, and the crunchy pine nuts add a delightful texture.
• Fruit Juices: Thanks to its abundance of fresh produce, Jordan offers a wide variety of freshly squeezed fruit juices. From pomegranate and orange to watermelon and lemon, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your thirst and boost your vitamin intake.

What about alcohol?

While Jordan is a Muslim country, alcohol is readily available in many restaurants, bars, and shops, particularly in cities like Amman and Aqaba. Jordan also produces its own wine and beer, so you can sample some local brews during your visit.

Whether you're sipping traditional mint tea in a Bedouin tent or enjoying a glass of Jordanian wine with your meal, the diverse drinks of Jordan offer a delightful complement to the country's vibrant cuisine.

Where Can I Find the Best Food in Jordan?

Ready to embark on your culinary adventure? Here's where to find the best food in Jordan:

• Amman: As the capital city, Amman boasts a vibrant food scene with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls. Head to Downtown Amman for traditional Jordanian restaurants serving up classic dishes like Mansaf, Musakhan, and Falafel. For the best hummus in Amman, seek out local favourites like Hashem Restaurant, known for its simple yet incredibly flavourful hummus and falafel.
• Petra: After a day exploring the ancient city of Petra, refuel with delicious Jordanian food at one of the many restaurants near the site. Enjoy stunning views while savouring traditional dishes like lamb Maqluba or a refreshing fattoush salad.
• Wadi Rum: Experience the magic of the desert with a traditional Bedouin feast under the stars. Many desert camps offer authentic dining experiences, where you can savour slow-cooked lamb, freshly baked bread, and sweet tea while enjoying traditional music and storytelling.
• Aqaba: This coastal city offers a unique blend of Jordanian and Middle Eastern flavours with a focus on fresh seafood. Explore the local restaurants and try Sayadieh, a flavourful fish dish baked with rice and spices, or indulge in a seafood mezze platter.

Don't forget the street food!

Jordanian street food is a must-try for any foodie. Wander through the bustling streets of Amman and sample delicious treats like falafel wraps, shawarma, and freshly baked pastries.

A note on water:

While tap water is generally safe to drink in Jordan, many visitors prefer to stick to bottled water, which is readily available throughout the country.

What are Some Tips for Dining in Jordan?

To make the most of your culinary adventure in Jordan, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Embrace the Mezze: Sharing is caring in Jordan! Mezze, a selection of small dishes, is a fantastic way to sample a variety of flavours and is often served as a starter or even a main meal.
• Don't be afraid to use your hands: In many traditional settings, eating with your hands (right hand only) is perfectly acceptable, especially when enjoying dishes like hummus and bread.
• Dress modestly when dining out: While Jordan is relatively liberal, it's still respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional restaurants or dining in local homes.
• Learn a few basic Arabic phrases: Even a few simple phrases like "shukran" (thank you) and "min fadlik" (please) will go a long way in showing respect and enhancing your dining experience.
• Tipping is customary: In most restaurants, a 10% tip is appreciated.
• Vegetarians and vegans can find delicious options: While meat is prominently featured in Jordanian cuisine, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options available. Hummus, falafel, salads, and vegetable-based stews are readily available, and many restaurants are happy to cater to dietary requirements.
• Enjoy the Jordanian hospitality: Jordanians are known for their warm hospitality, and mealtimes are often a social affair. Embrace the opportunity to connect with locals and learn more about their culture and cuisine.

Ready to explore the flavours of Jordan?

I hope this guide has inspired you to embark on a delicious culinary journey through Jordan. From the bustling streets of Amman to the ancient wonders of Petra, a world of flavour awaits. So pack your appetite, grab your passport, and get ready to experience the best of Jordanian cuisine!