Jordan Cuisine and Entertainment

Jordanian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, diverse influences, and use of local ingredients.

Jordanian cuisine:

  1. Mansaf: Considered the national dish of Jordan, mansaf is a traditional Bedouin dish made of tender lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce and served with rice and flatbread. It is often garnished with nuts and herbs and is enjoyed on special occasions.
  2. Falafel: Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with herbs and spices, formed into balls, and deep-fried. It is commonly served in a pita bread with tahini sauce, vegetables, and pickles.
  3. Maqluba: Maqluba, which means “upside down” in Arabic, is a flavorful and hearty dish made with rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a variety of vegetables such as eggplant, cauliflower, and potatoes. The ingredients are layered in a pot, cooked, and then inverted onto a serving dish.
  4. Jordanian Mezze: Mezze is a popular way of dining in Jordan, where a variety of small dishes are served as appetizers or shared plates. It typically includes hummus (chickpea dip), baba ghanoush (eggplant dip), tabbouleh (parsley and bulgur salad), fattoush (bread salad), and various pickles and olives.
  5. Zarb: Zarb is a Bedouin-style barbecue dish that involves cooking meat, usually lamb or chicken, in an underground pit. The meat is marinated with herbs and spices and slow-cooked with hot charcoal and embers, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
  6. Kunafa: Kunafa is a popular Middle Eastern dessert made of shredded filo pastry, layered with sweet cheese and soaked in a sweet sugar-based syrup. It is often garnished with pistachios or other nuts and served warm.

Entertainment in Jordan:

Traditional Music and Dance: Enjoy traditional Jordanian music and dance performances, such as the popular Dabke dance, which involves synchronized foot movements and energetic group dancing. Traditional instruments like the oud (stringed instrument) and tabla (drum) are often used in musical performances.

  1. Petra by Night: Experience the magical atmosphere of Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, during Petra by Night. The ancient city is illuminated by candlelight, creating a stunning ambiance as you walk through the Siq (narrow gorge) to reach the Treasury. Traditional music and storytelling add to the enchanting experience.
  2. Amman Citadel: Visit the Amman Citadel, an archaeological site in the heart of Amman, where you can explore ancient ruins, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. The site offers beautiful views of the city and occasionally hosts cultural events and music performances.
  3. Folklore Shows: Attend folklore shows that showcase traditional Jordanian music, dance, and costumes. These performances often depict Bedouin culture and feature storytelling through music and dance.
  4. Dead Sea: Relax and enjoy the therapeutic properties of the Dead Sea. Float effortlessly in its salty waters and indulge in mud treatments known for their health benefits. The Dead Sea area also offers luxury resorts with spas and wellness centers for ultimate relaxation.
  5. Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets, such as Amman’s downtown souks or the popular Al Balad Market in downtown Salt. Explore stalls selling traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and souvenirs while enjoying the lively ambiance.
  • Wadi Rum: Embark on a desert adventure in Wadi Rum, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique Bedouin culture. Take a jeep tour, ride a camel, or spend a night in a Bedouin camp under the starry sky.
  • These are just a few examples of the cuisine and entertainment experiences you can enjoy in Jordan.