Oman is a country with a rich culture and diverse cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Oman, be sure to try the local food. Here are 10 of the most famous Omani dishes that you should try when visiting Oman:
Food: One of Oman’s Attractions
One of the wonders of Omani culture is its exceptional delicious traditional cuisine. From dates and coffee to rice and grilled meats, we will explore the best Omani dishes in this article.
Omani Machbos
Machbos, also called Kabsa and Makbos, is a traditional mixed rice dish that originated in Saudi Arabia. It is famous in the Arab world, especially in the Persian Gulf countries, including Oman. This dish consists of rice, vegetables, meat or chicken and a combination of spices. Sometimes it is served with yogurt or green salad, traditional bread and tomato sauce.
Omani Showa
Showa means grilled meat in Arabic. It is a favorite dish in Oman, often prepared for special occasions such as Eid. The cooking process of Showa food takes a long time. In fact, Omanis usually prepare the meat on the first day of Eid and eat it on the second or third day.
Showa is marinated in Omani spices, then wrapped in banana leaves or palm leaves and placed in an underground sand oven, where it is baked within one to two days. This method may seem strange, but Shava meat is one of the tastiest foods available.
Omani bread
There are different types of Omani bread. One of them is thick and has a large circular shape. The other is crisp and thin, about the size of a small circular dinner plate. It is interesting to know that most Omani people make their own bread at home.
Omani dates
Omani dates vary in size, color and softness and are one of the must-have food items offered to every guest as part of the wonderful Omani hospitality. Sometimes Omanis mix dried dates with sesame paste and ground sesame or coconut.
Omani Kahwa
Kahwa means coffee in Arabic. It is famous for its taste and texture as well as the way it is grown, dried and prepared. Omani coffee is usually mixed with cardamom powder. Just like dates, it is an important part of Omani hospitality and is also served with Omani halwa (dessert). Most Omanis drink coffee several times a day.
Omani Mishkek
Mishkek, also known as kebab, is marinated veal, mutton or chicken that is grilled on wood. It is usually marinated with various spices, especially curry, and served with Omani bread.
Omani Halva
Halwa means dessert in Arabic. However, Halwa is also the name of the most famous Omani sweet. Omani halva consists of sugar, honey, rose water, eggs, several Omani spices and nuts. It is usually served with coffee and dates.
Omani Laban
Laban means sour milk in Arabic. Omani laban is made from yogurt and buttermilk. It is a salty drink that is served everywhere in Oman and is usually flavored with cardamom, mint or cumin.
Omani Harris
Harris, which is usually cooked for special occasions, is prepared from wheat mixed with meat and is usually served with a special sauce.
Omani Mashuai
Mashwa is a delicious Omani fish dish. It consists of grilled herring with a special lemon sauce. With traditional Omani spices!
Conclusion
Omani food is diverse and delicious, and experiencing it is a must when visiting Oman. If you have had the experience of trying Omani local food, please share your comment in the comments section below.