A Jordanian Food Guide to the Best Hummus, Mezze, and Middle Eastern Food: Eats and Drinks You Must Try in Jordan

Embark on a culinary journey through Jordan's rich gastronomic heritage with our comprehensive guide. When planning your Jordan tours, immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of flavors showcased in Jordanian cuisine.

From delectable hummus to tantalizing mezze spreads, this article unveils the must-try dishes and drinks that define the Middle Eastern culinary experience.

Join us as we delve into the heart of Jordanian food culture, exploring the diverse array of flavors and traditions that await travelers seeking an authentic taste of the region.

Best Foods in Jordan

Mansaf

A traditional Jordanian dish consisting of tender lamb cooked in a yogurt sauce, served over rice and topped with almonds and pine nuts. It's often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.

Where to try it: Mansaf is best experienced at local Jordanian restaurants, particularly in Amman or in traditional Bedouin camps in the desert.

Falafel Sandwich

Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with herbs and spices. Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, falafel is a beloved street food in Jordan.

Where to try it: Head to bustling street markets or local eateries in cities like Amman or Petra for some of the tastiest falafel in Jordan.

Shawarma

Thinly sliced meat (typically chicken or lamb) wrapped in pita bread with tahini sauce, vegetables, and pickles. Shawarma is a popular street food in Jordan, known for its flavorful and satisfying taste.

Where to try it: Look for street vendors and shawarma stands in bustling markets and tourist areas across Jordan for a quick and delicious meal on the go.

Zarb

A traditional Bedouin dish featuring meat (usually chicken or lamb), vegetables, and rice cooked in an underground pit oven. It's a communal meal often prepared for special occasions and gatherings.

Where to try it: Experience zarb during a Bedouin-style dinner in the Wadi Rum desert, where you can witness the unique cooking process and enjoy a feast under the stars.

Maqluba

A fragrant one-pot dish featuring layers of rice, vegetables, and meat (typically chicken or lamb), cooked together and then flipped upside down before serving. It's a hearty and comforting meal.

Where to try it: Look for authentic Jordanian restaurants, especially in Amman, where you can savor this traditional Jordanian specialty.

Kanafeh

A sweet and savory dessert made from thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup, layered with soft cheese, and topped with crushed pistachios. It offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Where to try it: Explore local bakeries and dessert shops across Jordan, particularly in cities like Amman and Madaba, to indulge in this decadent treat.

Mezze

Mezze refers to a selection of small dishes served as appetizers, often including falafel, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, and stuffed grape leaves. It's a quintessential part of Jordanian dining, offering a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy.

Where to try it: Enjoy mezze at various restaurants and cafes throughout Jordan. Look for establishments that specialize in authentic Middle Eastern cuisine for the best experience.

Best Drinks in Jordan

Bedouin Tea (Wadi Rum Tea)

A traditional Jordanian tea brewed with fresh mint leaves and sometimes flavored with sage or other herbs. It's typically sweetened with sugar and served in small glasses, offering a refreshing and aromatic beverage.

Where to try it: Bedouin tea is commonly served in Bedouin camps and desert retreats, providing a perfect complement to the desert landscape.

Arabic Coffee

Also known as "qahwa," Arabic coffee is a strong and fragrant coffee brewed with cardamom. It's often served in small cups without sugar and is an integral part of Jordanian hospitality.

Where to try it: You can sample Arabic coffee at traditional cafes and restaurants across Jordan, where it's served as a welcoming gesture to guests.

Jallab

A popular Jordanian beverage made from a blend of grape molasses, rose water, and date syrup, mixed with water and ice. It has a sweet and fruity flavor profile, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.

Where to try it: Look for jallab at juice shops and cafes in bustling markets and tourist areas throughout Jordan.

Tamarind Juice

A tangy and refreshing drink made from tamarind pulp, water, and sugar. It's often served cold and garnished with a sprig of mint, offering a unique and thirst-quenching beverage option.

Where to try it: Tamarind juice is readily available at juice stalls and cafes in Jordanian cities like Amman and Aqaba, especially during the warmer months.

Ayran

A traditional yogurt-based drink, ayran is made by mixing yogurt with water and salt until smooth and frothy. It's a popular choice for cooling off and complementing spicy or savory dishes.

Where to try it: Ayran is commonly found at restaurants and cafes serving Middle Eastern cuisine across Jordan, providing a refreshing accompaniment to your meal.

Best Vegan and Vegetarian Jordanian Dishes 

Ful Medames

A hearty and nutritious dish made from cooked fava beans mixed with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It's often served as a breakfast staple or as part of a mezze spread.

Where to try it: Ful medames is available at many traditional Jordanian restaurants and cafes, where it's served with freshly baked bread for dipping.

Mujadara

A comforting dish featuring lentils and rice cooked with caramelized onions, seasoned with cumin and other spices. It's a flavorful and filling option for vegetarians and vegans.

Where to try it: Look for mujadara on the menu at local eateries and traditional Jordanian restaurants, where it's often served alongside salad and pickled vegetables.

Fatayer Sabanekh

Triangular pastries filled with a savory mixture of spinach, onions, pine nuts, and sumac. These delicious pastries are perfect for a light meal or snack.

Where to try it: Fatayer sabanekh can be found at bakeries and pastry shops across Jordan, where they're often served fresh and warm from the oven.

Batata Harra

Spicy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic, chili flakes, and cilantro. This flavorful dish offers a satisfying blend of textures and spices.

Where to try it: Batata harra is a popular appetizer or side dish at many Jordanian restaurants, where it's often served alongside other mezze options.

Hummus, Baba Ganoush, and Tahini

Hummus, a creamy chickpea dip; baba ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip; and tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, are all vegan-friendly options commonly enjoyed as part of a mezze spread in Jordan.

Where to try it: You can find hummus, baba ganoush, and tahini at various restaurants and cafes throughout Jordan, where they're served with fresh bread and vegetables for dipping.

Roast Almonds

Jordanian roast almonds are a popular snack, often seasoned with salt or spices for added flavor. They're crunchy, savory, and perfect for munching on while exploring the sights and sounds of Jordan.

Where to try it: Look for vendors selling roast almonds in local markets and tourist areas across Jordan, where you can enjoy them as a tasty and satisfying snack.

Indulging in the culinary delights of Jordan is not just a gastronomic experience but also a journey through history, culture, and hospitality. From the aromatic spices of mansaf to the refreshing sips of Bedouin tea, each dish and drink tells a story of tradition and innovation. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins or strolling through vibrant markets, the flavors of Jordan will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with unforgettable memories. So, as you plan your Jordan tours, be sure to savor every bite and sip, embracing the richness of this culinary treasure trove. Your adventure awaits – bon appétit!