Jordan
Food Safety Tips
Essential food safety information to help you enjoy Jordan's cuisine safely and confidently.
Drink bottled or filtered water
Tap water in Jordan is generally not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water or water that has been properly filtered.
Street food can be safe
Street food in Jordan is generally safe, especially in tourist areas. Look for busy stalls with high turnover and local customers.
Be cautious with raw vegetables
Raw vegetables may be washed with untreated water. Consider eating cooked vegetables or peel fruit yourself.
Check dairy product freshness
Dairy products are common in Jordanian cuisine. Ensure they are properly refrigerated, especially during hot summer months.
Dietary Options
vegetarian
HIGH AVAILABILITYJordan has a rich tradition of vegetarian mezze (appetizers) and dishes. Options like falafel, hummus, and stuffed vegetables are widely available.
vegan
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYMany vegetarian dishes are also vegan by default, though some traditional recipes may include dairy or eggs. Specify "bidoon alban" (without dairy) when ordering.
gluten-free
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYRice dishes and meat-based main courses are often gluten-free, but bread is a staple food. Cross-contamination may occur in kitchens.
halal
HIGH AVAILABILITYAs a predominantly Muslim country, almost all food in Jordan is halal. The few exceptions would be in international hotels or non-Muslim areas.
Common Allergens
Sesame
HIGH PREVALENCESesame seeds and tahini (sesame paste) are fundamental ingredients in Jordanian cuisine.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Tree Nuts
HIGH PREVALENCEPistachios, pine nuts, walnuts, and almonds are commonly used in many dishes and desserts.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Wheat
HIGH PREVALENCEWheat is a staple in Jordanian cuisine, used in bread, pastries, and as a thickening agent.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Dairy
HIGH PREVALENCEDairy products, especially yogurt and cheese, are common in Jordanian cooking.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Essential Food Experiences
These iconic dishes represent the must-have culinary experiences that define Jordan's food culture for travelers.
Mansaf
Jordan's national dish consisting of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt called jameed, served over rice and flatbread, traditionally eaten communally with the right hand.
Falafel
Deep-fried patties made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Jordanian falafels are known for being particularly light and fluffy inside.
Knafeh
A sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, topped with crushed pistachios. The Jordanian version is typically made with a distinctive orange-colored semolina dough.
Zarb
A Bedouin barbecue where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground pit, giving the food a unique, smoky flavor.
Mezze Platter
An assortment of small dishes served as appetizers, including hummus, mutabbal (eggplant dip), tabbouleh (parsley salad), and more.
Jordanian Tea with Sage
Black tea infused with sage (meramiyyeh), served sweet and often flavored with mint or other herbs, a symbol of Jordanian hospitality.
Regional Specialties & Local Favorites
Discover the authentic regional dishes and local favorites that showcase Jordan's diverse culinary traditions.
Mansaf
Jordan's iconic national dish featuring lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt sauce (jameed), served over rice and flatbread, traditionally eaten communally with the right hand.
Allergens:
Jordanian Mezze
A vibrant spread of small dishes including hummus, moutabal (eggplant dip), tabbouleh, and muhammara, showcasing Jordan's culinary diversity in one sharing experience.
Allergens:
Knafeh
Beloved dessert of shredded phyllo dough layered with soft white cheese, soaked in sweet syrup and topped with crushed pistachios, often enjoyed hot for breakfast or dessert.
Allergens:
Zarb
Traditional Bedouin feast where marinated meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground sand oven, imparting unique smoky flavors and tender textures.
Falafel
Crispy, herb-infused chickpea fritters that are a staple street food in Jordan, typically served in flatbread with tahini sauce, vegetables, and pickles.
Allergens:
Regional Cuisine Highlights
Explore the diverse culinary landscapes across different regions of Jordan.
Amman
Amman, Jordan's capital, offers a diverse culinary scene reflecting the country's varied regional influences. Traditional dishes like Mansaf and Maqluba are readily available, alongside international cuisine.
Cultural Significance:
As a major cultural hub, Amman's cuisine reflects both traditional Jordanian dishes and modern culinary trends.
Signature Dishes:
- Mansaf
- Maqluba
- Falafel
Key Ingredients:
Petra and Wadi Rum
The cuisine of Petra and Wadi Rum reflects the Bedouin heritage of the region. Zarb, a slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish prepared in an underground oven, is a regional specialty.
Cultural Significance:
Bedouin traditions of hospitality and communal dining are central to the culinary experience in this region.
Signature Dishes:
- Zarb
- Bedouin tea
- Flatbreads
Key Ingredients:
Sweet Delights & Desserts
Indulge in Jordan's traditional sweet treats and desserts.
Knafeh (كنافة)
A sweet cheese pastry soaked in sugar syrup, often flavored with rose water or orange blossom water. It's a popular dessert across the Levant and often enjoyed during Ramadan and other celebrations.
Baklava (بقلاوة)
Layers of filo pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey. A rich and decadent dessert commonly served during special occasions.
Traditional Beverages
Discover Jordan's traditional drinks, from locally produced spirits to regional wines.
Arak (عرق)
An anise-flavored spirit popular in the Levant. It's traditionally mixed with water, which turns it milky white, and served with mezze.
Soft Beverages
Discover Jordan's traditional non-alcoholic drinks, from local teas to refreshing juices.
Arabic Coffee (قهوة عربية)
Strong, cardamom-flavored coffee served in small cups. It's an integral part of Jordanian hospitality and often served to guests.
Tea (شاي)
Black tea, often flavored with mint or sage, is widely consumed throughout the day. It's a symbol of hospitality and often served with sugar.