Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Irbid, Irbid, Jordan
1. Mansaf (المنسف)
A traditional Jordanian dish made of lamb cooked in fermented dry yogurt and served on a large platter over rice. Try it at Al-Quds Restaurant.
- Authenticity: Mansaf is a symbol of Jordanian identity and an essential dish to try.
- Taste: The rich, savory flavor of the lamb combined with the tangy yogurt makes Mansaf a delicious meal.
- Experience: Enjoying Mansaf with family and friends is an important Jordanian social custom.
2. Maqluba (المقلوبة)
A layered dish where rice, vegetables, and meat are cooked together upside-down, resulting in a unique presentation. Try it at Abu Toufeh Restaurant.
- Taste: The combination of flavors in Maqluba offers a delicious and filling meal.
- Presentation: The upside-down cooking method creates an eye-catching presentation that's fun to eat.
- Cultural Significance: Maqluba is a popular dish in various Middle Eastern countries, each with their own unique variations.
3. Shawarma (الشاورما)
A popular street food consisting of grilled meat wrapped in flatbread with various toppings. Try it at Al-Hussein Street Shawarma Stalls.
- Convenience: Shawarmas are easy to find and make for a quick, tasty meal on the go.
- Variety: You can customize your Shawarma with various meats, sauces, and vegetables.
- Authenticity: The Shawarmas in Irbid are a true representation of this popular Middle Eastern street food.
4. Kunafa (الكنافة)
A sweet pastry made of cheese-stuffed noodles soaked in sugar syrup. Try it at Al-Ayyamia Kunafa Shop.
- Taste: Kunafa offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors.
- Presentation: The golden, crispy Kunafa is visually appealing before being enjoyed.
- Cultural Significance: Kunafa is a popular dessert in several Middle Eastern countries and holds cultural importance.
5. Mujaddara (المجدرة)
A simple dish made of lentils and rice cooked together with caramelized onions. Try it at Al-Hummus Sweydan Restaurant.
- Nutritional Value: Mujaddara is a filling, nutritious meal with a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
- Taste: The sweetness from the caramelized onions complements the earthy flavors of lentils and rice.
- Affordability: Mujaddara is an affordable, budget-friendly dish that won't break the bank.
6. Maqluba Bi Zaatar (المقلوبة بالزعتر)
A variant of Maqluba with added zaatar (a blend of herbs) in the layered dish. Try it at Al-Joud Restaurant.
- Flavor: The addition of zaatar adds a unique, herby flavor to the Maqluba.
- Taste: The rich, savory flavors are accentuated by the inclusion of zaatar.
- Cultural Significance: Zaatar is a popular spice in the Middle East and adds an authentic touch to this dish.
7. Fatteh (الفتطة)
A layered dish made of crushed flatbread, chickpeas, fried vegetables, and yogurt. Try it at Al-Basheer Restaurant.
- Taste: The combination of textures and flavors in Fatteh make for a delicious meal.
- Presentation: Fatteh is visually appealing with its layered appearance before being served.
- Cultural Significance: Fatteh is a popular dish in Palestine and Jordan, reflecting the shared culinary heritage between these countries.
8. Hummus (الحمص)
A traditional Middle Eastern dip made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice. Try it at Al-Hummus Sweydan Restaurant.
- Taste: The creamy, smooth texture of Hummus is complemented by its savory flavor.
- Cultural Significance: Hummus is a popular dish across the Middle East and has become well-known worldwide.
- Versatility: Hummus can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or side dish, making it a versatile choice.
9. Kunafa Bil Jeben (الكنافة بالجبين)
A Kunafa variant with added creamy cheese. Try it at Al-Ayyamia Kunafa Shop.
- Taste: The addition of cheese adds a rich, indulgent flavor to the sweet Kunafa.
- Presentation: Kunafa Bil Jeben is visually appealing with its golden, gooey layers.
- Cultural Significance: Kunafa Bil Jeben is a popular dessert in the Levant region and is enjoyed by many.
10. Fasuyeh (الفصوية)
A dish made of fava beans cooked with garlic, onions, and spices. Try it at Al-Basheer Restaurant.
- Taste: The earthy flavors of the fava beans are complemented by the aromatic garlic and onions.
- Nutritional Value: Fasuyeh is a healthy, protein-rich dish that's perfect for vegetarians.
- Cultural Significance: Fasuyeh is a popular dish in the Middle East and holds cultural significance among many communities.
11. Mahshi Warak Enab (ماهشي الورق العنب)
Stuffed vine leaves with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. Try it at Al-Quds Restaurant.
- Taste: The flavors in Mahshi Warak Enab are a delightful blend of tangy, herby, and savory.
- Cultural Significance: Stuffed vine leaves are a popular dish throughout the Mediterranean region.
- Presentation: Mahshi Warak Enab is visually appealing with its vibrant green color and neat presentation.
12. Foul (فول)
A dish made of mashed fava beans cooked with garlic, onions, and spices. Try it at Al-Basheer Restaurant.
- Taste: The earthy flavors of the fava beans are complemented by the aromatic garlic and onions.
- Nutritional Value: Foul is a healthy, protein-rich dish that's perfect for vegetarians.
- Cultural Significance: Foul is a popular dish in the Middle East and holds cultural significance among many communities.
13. Mansaf Bi Dajaj (المنسف بالدجاج)
A variant of Mansaf made with chicken instead of lamb. Try it at Al-Joud Restaurant.
- Taste: The tender, juicy chicken complements the rich, tangy yogurt sauce.
- Versatility: Mansaf Bi Dajaj offers a more accessible option for those who prefer chicken to lamb.
- Cultural Significance: Mansaf is a symbol of Jordanian identity and an essential dish to try.
14. Fatteh Bi Kebbeh (الفتطة بالكباب)
A variant of Fatteh with added kebab (ground meat). Try it at Al-Basheer Restaurant.
- Taste: The combination of the savory kebab with the textured Fatteh makes for a delicious meal.
- Cultural Significance: Kebabs are a popular dish throughout the Middle East and reflect shared culinary traditions.
- Versatility: Fatteh Bi Kebbeh offers a hearty, filling option for those seeking a protein-rich meal.
15. Kunafa Bil Atayef (الكنافة بالعتايف)
A Kunafa variant filled with sweet, syrupy Atayef (small, stuffed pancakes). Try it at Al-Ayyamia Kunafa Shop.
- Taste: The sweetness of the Atayef is beautifully balanced by the crispy, savory Kunafa.
- Presentation: Kunafa Bil Atayef is visually appealing with its golden, gooey layers and colorful filling.
- Cultural Significance: Atayef are a popular dessert throughout the Middle East and add an authentic touch to this dish.