Hey guys! Jordan, a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, also boasts an incredibly delicious and diverse culinary scene. From savory meats to sweet pastries, Jordanian food is sure to tantalize your taste buds. If you're planning a trip to Jordan or just curious about Middle Eastern cuisine, here are ten must-try dishes that will give you an authentic taste of Jordan.

1. Mansaf: The King of Jordanian Dishes

Mansaf, often hailed as the national dish of Jordan, is a culinary experience you absolutely cannot miss. This dish is deeply rooted in Jordanian culture and is traditionally served during special occasions such as weddings, holidays, and important gatherings. At its heart, mansaf is a celebration of Bedouin hospitality and culinary heritage.

The preparation of mansaf is an art in itself. It starts with tender, succulent lamb, which is slow-cooked in a fermented, dried yogurt sauce called jameed. This jameed is what gives mansaf its distinctive tangy and savory flavor profile. The lamb, infused with the rich flavors of the jameed, is then served on a bed of fragrant rice or bulgur. A generous amount of the jameed sauce is ladled over the rice and lamb, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

But mansaf is more than just a meal; it's a communal experience. Traditionally, it's eaten from a large platter, with everyone gathered around sharing the dish. Using your right hand, you form the rice and lamb into small balls, dipping them into the jameed sauce before savoring each mouthful. This shared experience fosters a sense of unity and connection, making mansaf not just a meal, but a cultural ritual.

If you want to try mansaf, be prepared for a flavor explosion. The combination of the tender lamb, the tangy jameed, and the fragrant rice is simply divine. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that will leave you feeling full and content. You can find mansaf in most traditional Jordanian restaurants, but for the most authentic experience, try to find a local family who will prepare it for you. Eating mansaf is not just about tasting a dish; it’s about immersing yourself in Jordanian culture and experiencing the warmth and generosity of its people.

2. Maqluba: Upside-Down Delight

Maqluba, meaning "upside-down" in Arabic, is a visually stunning and incredibly flavorful rice dish that's a staple in Jordanian cuisine. The name maqluba perfectly describes the unique presentation of this dish, where the pot is flipped upside down onto a serving platter, revealing layers of perfectly cooked rice, vegetables, and meat. It’s a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

The preparation of maqluba involves carefully layering the ingredients in a pot. Typically, the bottom layer consists of vegetables such as cauliflower, potatoes, eggplants, and tomatoes. These vegetables are often lightly fried to enhance their flavor and texture. On top of the vegetables, a layer of meat, usually chicken or lamb, is added. The meat is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Finally, rice is spread over the meat and vegetables, and the pot is filled with broth or water.

The magic happens as the maqluba simmers slowly on the stove, allowing the flavors to meld together. The rice absorbs the savory broth, while the vegetables and meat become tender and infused with the spices. Once the dish is cooked, the pot is carefully flipped upside down onto a large serving platter. The result is a beautifully layered tower of rice, vegetables, and meat, with the vibrant colors of the vegetables creating a stunning visual display.

Maqluba is often served with a side of yogurt or a simple salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Each bite of maqluba is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The fluffy rice, the tender vegetables, and the savory meat create a harmonious blend that is both satisfying and comforting. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, and it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing, maqluba is a must-try in Jordan.

3. Musakhan: Sumac-Spiced Chicken

Musakhan is a classic Palestinian dish that's also incredibly popular in Jordan. It's all about the bold flavors of sumac, onions, and olive oil, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Musakhan is traditionally made with taboon bread, a type of flatbread that's baked in a taboon oven, but you can also use other types of flatbread if taboon bread is not available.

The preparation of musakhan begins with marinating chicken in a generous amount of sumac, olive oil, and spices. Sumac, with its tangy and lemony flavor, is the star of this dish, giving the chicken a distinctive and vibrant taste. The chicken is then roasted or baked until it's tender and juicy, with the sumac creating a beautiful reddish-brown crust.

While the chicken is cooking, onions are caramelized in olive oil until they're soft, sweet, and golden brown. The caramelized onions are then mixed with more sumac and spread over the flatbread. The roasted chicken is placed on top of the onion mixture, and the dish is garnished with toasted pine nuts or almonds.

Musakhan is typically served warm, and it's best enjoyed by tearing off pieces of the flatbread and using them to scoop up the chicken and onion mixture. The combination of the tender chicken, the sweet onions, the tangy sumac, and the crunchy nuts creates a symphony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a casual meal with family and friends, and it’s sure to become a favorite once you try it. Musakhan is not only delicious but also represents the rich culinary heritage of the region, making it a must-try dish in Jordan.

4. Falafel: Crispy Chickpea Delight

Falafel is a widely popular street food found throughout the Middle East, and Jordan is no exception. These crispy, deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas are a vegetarian delight that's both satisfying and flavorful. Falafel is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it a staple in Jordanian cuisine.

The preparation of falafel begins with soaking dried chickpeas overnight. The soaked chickpeas are then ground with a mixture of herbs and spices, such as parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, and coriander. The mixture is formed into small balls or patties and then deep-fried until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside.

Falafel is often served in pita bread with a variety of toppings, such as hummus, tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, and a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. This combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying sandwich that's perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Falafel can also be served as part of a mezze platter, alongside other Middle Eastern delicacies.

One of the best things about falafel is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding different toppings and sauces. Whether you prefer it spicy, tangy, or savory, there's a falafel combination that's sure to please your taste buds. Falafel is not only delicious but also a healthy and affordable option, making it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. If you're looking for a quick, tasty, and authentic Jordanian street food experience, falafel is a must-try.

5. Hummus: Creamy Chickpea Dip

Hummus is another Middle Eastern staple that's incredibly popular in Jordan. This creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic is a versatile and healthy dish that's enjoyed throughout the day. Hummus is a must-try for anyone visiting Jordan, and it's a perfect accompaniment to many Jordanian dishes.

The preparation of hummus involves blending cooked chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil until smooth and creamy. The quality of the ingredients is key to making a delicious hummus. Using high-quality tahini and fresh lemon juice will elevate the flavor of the hummus and make it truly exceptional.

Hummus is typically served with pita bread, which is used to scoop up the creamy dip. It's also often drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with paprika or parsley for added flavor and visual appeal. Hummus can be enjoyed as an appetizer, a snack, or even as part of a main meal. It's a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of other foods, such as falafel, vegetables, and grilled meats.

In Jordan, hummus is often served as part of a mezze platter, alongside other Middle Eastern dips and salads. It's a popular choice for sharing with friends and family, and it's a great way to sample a variety of different flavors and textures. Whether you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or just looking for a healthy and delicious snack, hummus is a must-try in Jordan. Its creamy texture and savory flavor will leave you wanting more.

6. Shawarma: Thinly Sliced Meat

Shawarma is a beloved street food found throughout the Middle East, and Jordan is no exception. This flavorful dish consists of thinly sliced meat, typically lamb, chicken, or beef, that's roasted on a vertical spit. Shawarma is a popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting Jordan.

The preparation of shawarma involves marinating the meat in a blend of spices and then stacking it on a vertical spit. The spit is rotated slowly in front of a heat source, allowing the meat to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. As the meat cooks, thin slices are shaved off and served in pita bread or wrapped in a thin flatbread called lavash.

Shawarma is typically served with a variety of toppings, such as tahini sauce, hummus, pickled vegetables, and a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. These toppings add flavor and texture to the shawarma, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Shawarma can also be customized to your liking by adding different sauces and toppings.

One of the best things about shawarma is its convenience. It's a quick and easy meal that's perfect for eating on the go. You can find shawarma stands on almost every street corner in Jordan, making it a readily available and affordable option. Whether you're a meat lover or just looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, shawarma is a must-try in Jordan. Its flavorful meat and customizable toppings will leave you wanting more.

7. Kofta: Grilled Minced Meat

Kofta is a popular dish in Jordan and throughout the Middle East, consisting of grilled or baked minced meat, typically lamb or beef, mixed with spices and herbs. These flavorful meat patties or skewers are a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for grilling or baking. Kofta is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways, making it a staple in Jordanian cuisine.

The preparation of kofta involves mixing ground meat with a blend of spices, such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon, as well as herbs like parsley and mint. The mixture is then formed into small patties or shaped around skewers. The kofta can be grilled over an open flame, baked in the oven, or pan-fried until they're cooked through and slightly browned.

Kofta is often served with a variety of accompaniments, such as pita bread, rice, salad, and yogurt sauce. It can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a mezze platter. Kofta is also a popular choice for grilling at picnics and barbecues. Its flavorful meat and easy preparation make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

One of the best things about kofta is its versatility. You can customize it to your liking by adding different spices and herbs to the meat mixture. Whether you prefer it spicy, savory, or aromatic, there's a kofta recipe that's sure to please your taste buds. Kofta is not only delicious but also a relatively healthy option, as it's made with lean ground meat and a variety of fresh herbs and spices. If you're looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, kofta is a must-try in Jordan.

8. Kanafeh: Sweet Cheese Pastry

Kanafeh is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that's incredibly popular in Jordan. This sweet cheese pastry is made with shredded phyllo dough, a layer of cheese, and a sweet syrup infused with rose water or orange blossom water. Kanafeh is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth visiting Jordan.

The preparation of kanafeh involves layering shredded phyllo dough in a baking dish, followed by a layer of soft, unsalted cheese, such as akkawi or nabulsi cheese. The pastry is then baked until it's golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once the kanafeh is out of the oven, it's immediately drizzled with a sweet syrup made from sugar, water, and a touch of rose water or orange blossom water.

Kanafeh is typically served warm, and it's often garnished with chopped pistachios for added flavor and visual appeal. The combination of the crispy phyllo dough, the melted cheese, and the sweet syrup creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. Kanafeh is a popular dessert to enjoy after a meal, and it's also a favorite treat to share with friends and family.

There are many variations of kanafeh throughout the Middle East, but the Jordanian version is particularly well-known for its use of high-quality cheese and its perfectly balanced sweetness. If you're looking for a decadent and authentic Middle Eastern dessert, kanafeh is a must-try in Jordan. Its sweet and cheesy goodness will leave you wanting more.

9. Baklava: Nut-Filled Pastry

Baklava is another popular Middle Eastern dessert that you'll find in Jordan. This rich, sweet pastry is made with layers of thin phyllo dough, filled with chopped nuts, and soaked in a sweet syrup or honey. Baklava is a decadent treat that's perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

The preparation of baklava involves layering thin sheets of phyllo dough in a baking pan, brushing each layer with melted butter. A mixture of chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pistachios, or almonds, is spread over the layers of phyllo dough. More layers of phyllo dough are added on top, and the pastry is cut into diamond or square shapes. The baklava is then baked until it's golden brown and crispy.

Once the baklava is out of the oven, it's immediately drizzled with a sweet syrup made from sugar, water, and lemon juice or honey. The syrup soaks into the layers of phyllo dough, giving the baklava its signature sweetness and stickiness. Baklava is typically served at room temperature, and it's often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Baklava is a popular dessert to enjoy during special occasions and holidays, and it's also a favorite treat to give as a gift. Its rich flavor and delicate texture make it a truly indulgent dessert. If you're looking for a sweet and satisfying treat, baklava is a must-try in Jordan. Its nutty filling and sweet syrup will leave you feeling completely satisfied.

10. Arabic Coffee: A Sign of Hospitality

Arabic coffee, also known as qahwa, is an integral part of Jordanian culture and hospitality. It's more than just a beverage; it's a symbol of welcome and friendship. Offering Arabic coffee to guests is a tradition that's deeply ingrained in Jordanian society.

The preparation of Arabic coffee is a ritual in itself. It starts with roasting green coffee beans over an open flame until they're lightly browned. The roasted beans are then ground using a mortar and pestle. The ground coffee is brewed in a traditional coffee pot called a dallah, along with cardamom and sometimes other spices like cloves or saffron.

Arabic coffee is typically served in small, handleless cups, and it's customary to drink at least three cups. The coffee is poured from the dallah with a graceful and practiced hand. It's considered impolite to refuse a cup of Arabic coffee when offered, as it's a sign of disrespect to the host.

Arabic coffee is strong and bitter, but the addition of cardamom and other spices adds a fragrant and aromatic flavor. It's often served with dates or other sweets to balance the bitterness of the coffee. Drinking Arabic coffee is a social activity, and it's a time to relax, chat, and enjoy the company of friends and family.

Experiencing Arabic coffee is a must-do in Jordan. It's a chance to immerse yourself in Jordanian culture and experience the warmth and generosity of its people. So, the next time you're in Jordan, be sure to accept a cup of Arabic coffee and savor the moment.

So there you have it, guys! Ten must-try foods in Jordan that will give you a real taste of the country's amazing culinary scene. Enjoy your food adventures!