Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Az Zarqā’, Az Zarqā’, Jordan
1. Mansaf (King's Dish)
Traditional Jordanian dish made with lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt and rice, served on a large platter. Try it at Al Basait Restaurant.
- Authenticity: Experience the authentic taste of Mansaf, a dish that has been enjoyed by Jordanian kings for centuries.
- Local Ingredients: Savor the unique flavor of Mansaf made with locally sourced ingredients such as tender lamb and fermented dried yogurt.
- Cultural Significance: Learn about the cultural significance of Mansaf in Jordanian society as it is often served during special occasions and celebrations.
2. Maqluba (Upside Down Dish)
A popular Levantine dish where rice, vegetables, and meat are layered then cooked upside down, giving it the name 'Maqluba' or 'Upside Down'. Try it at Al Omeyya Restaurant.
- Cooking Method: Discover the unique cooking method of Maqluba, where the dish is flipped onto a serving platter after being cooked.
- Versatility: Taste the variety in Maqluba as it can be prepared with different types of meat and vegetables.
- Tradition: Understand the traditional significance of Maqluba, a dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations.
3. Markab al Sultan (King's Pie)
A savory pie filled with minced meat, onions, and spices. Try it at Al Majboos Restaurant.
- Taste: Savor the unique flavor combination of Markab al Sultan's savory filling.
- Pie-making Technique: Witness the art of pie-making as each pie is handcrafted and baked to perfection.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the street food atmosphere at Al Majboos Restaurant, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
4. Kunafa (Palm Leaves Pastry)
A sweet pastry made from layers of thin noodle-like threads called 'kunafeh' and soaked in sugar syrup. Try it at Al Aseel Sweets.
- Texture: Feel the unique texture of Kunafa, a combination of crispy noodle layers and soft cheese filling.
- Local Twist: Try the local twist on Kunafa with the addition of nuts or cream.
- Sweet Treat: Indulge in a delicious sweet treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
5. Shawarma (Gyro)
A popular Middle Eastern sandwich made with meat cooked on a spit and served in pita bread. Try it at Al Huda Shawarma.
- Versatility: Choose from various meats including chicken, beef, or lamb for your Shawarma.
- Quick Snack: Grab a quick and tasty meal on the go with Shawarma, perfect for busy travelers.
- Spices: Experience the unique blend of spices used in Shawarma, adding depth to its flavor.
6. Fatteh (Crumbled Bread Salad)
A popular Levantine dish made with crushed chips of flatbread, layered with chickpeas, yogurt, and topped with chopped vegetables. Try it at Al Basait Restaurant.
- Crispy Texture: Enjoy the crispy texture of the crushed chips of flatbread in each bite.
- Fusion of Flavors: Taste the fusion of flavors in Fatteh, from the tangy yogurt to the savory chickpeas.
- Community Dish: Share a communal dish with friends and family as Fatteh is traditionally served in large portions.
7. Muhammara (Red Pepper Dip)
A spicy red pepper dip made with walnuts, breadcrumbs, and various spices. Try it at Al Oumari Restaurant.
- Spiciness Level: Adjust the spiciness level of Muhammara to your preference.
- Local Flavor: Experience a taste of Jordanian cuisine with this traditional dip.
- Dip for Various Dishes: Enjoy Muhammara as a dip for various dishes such as falafel or Shawarma.
8. Falafel (Chickpea Fritters)
Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and herbs. Try them at Al Huda Shawarma.
- Crispy Texture: Feel the crispy texture of Falafel, a contrast to its soft interior.
- Versatility: Enjoy Falafel as a standalone snack or as a filling for Shawarma or Sandwiches.
- Health Benefits: Take advantage of the health benefits of Falafel, made primarily from chickpeas and herbs.
9. Mudardara (Lentil Rice)
A simple dish made with lentils, rice, and spices. Try it at Al Aseel Sweets.
- Nutritious Meal: Enjoy a nutritious meal filled with the protein-rich lentils.
- Versatility: Taste Mudardara as a side dish or as a main course, depending on your preference.
- Local Ingredients: Savor the taste of Mudardara made with locally sourced lentils and spices.
10. Fasuulia (Lentil Soup)
A hearty lentil soup seasoned with various herbs and spices. Try it at Al Basait Restaurant.
- Warming Dish: Warm up on a cold day with this comforting lentil soup.
- Nutritious Meal: Enjoy a nutritious meal filled with the protein-rich lentils.
- Local Flavor: Experience a taste of Jordanian cuisine with this traditional soup.
11. Sambusek (Meat Pies)
Triangular pastries filled with various fillings such as minced meat or vegetables. Try them at Al Oumari Restaurant.
- Portable Snack: Grab a portable and tasty snack on the go with Sambusek.
- Versatility: Choose from various fillings such as minced meat or vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the street food atmosphere at Al Oumari Restaurant, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
12. Hamam Majboos (Spiced Rice)
A flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, chicken or meat, and sometimes dried fruit. Try it at Al Majboos Restaurant.
- Flavor Profile: Experience the unique blend of flavors in Hamam Majboos, from the aromatic spices to the tender chicken or meat.
- Versatility: Enjoy Hamam Majboos as a side dish or as a main course, depending on your preference.
- Local Ingredients: Savor the taste of Hamam Majboos made with locally sourced ingredients such as spices and chicken or meat.
13. Kunafa Zalabia (Cheese Kunafa with Dough Fritters)
A sweet dish made with layers of Kunafa pastry and soaked in sugar syrup, topped with crispy dough fritters. Try it at Al Aseel Sweets.
- Texture: Feel the contrasting textures of the crispy dough fritters against the soft Kunafa pastry.
- Sweet Treat: Indulge in a delicious sweet treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
- Local Twist: Try the local twist on Kunafa with the addition of cheese and dough fritters.
14. Jerash Salad (Mixed Salad)
A refreshing salad made with a mix of fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce. Try it at Al Basait Restaurant.
- Refreshing Side Dish: Enjoy a refreshing side dish to balance out the richness of your main meal.
- Local Produce: Savor the taste of fresh, locally grown vegetables in Jerash Salad.
- Versatility: Enjoy Jerash Salad as a side dish with various main courses or as a standalone light meal.
15. Moutabbal (Smoked Eggplant Dip)
A creamy dip made from smoked eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Try it at Al Oumari Restaurant.
- Taste: Savor the unique taste of Moutabbal, a combination of smoky eggplant, tangy lemon, and rich tahini.
- Dip for Various Dishes: Enjoy Moutabbal as a dip for various dishes such as falafel or pita bread.
- Health Benefits: Take advantage of the health benefits of Moutabbal, made primarily from smoked eggplant and tahini.