John Myers
Introduction: Oman’s culinary diversity
Oman is a country that boasts a rich cultural heritage, and its cuisine is no exception. Omani cuisine has been influenced by the country’s location on the Arabian Peninsula, as well as its close proximity to India, Africa, and Southeast Asia. As a result, Omani cuisine is a blend of Arab, Indian, and African flavors that come together to create a unique and delicious culinary experience. From hearty meat dishes to seafood delights and sweet treats, there is something for everyone in Oman’s cuisine.
Omani breakfast staples: shuwa and khubz
One of the best ways to start your day in Oman is with a traditional Omani breakfast. Two must-try dishes are shuwa and khubz. Shuwa is a slow-cooked dish made with marinated meat (usually lamb or goat) that is wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground for several hours. The result is a tender, flavorful meat that is perfect for breakfast. Khubz, on the other hand, is a type of flatbread that is made fresh daily and served with every meal. It is soft, chewy, and perfect for dipping in shuwa or any other dish.
Meat dishes: machboos and harees
Oman is known for its meat dishes, and two of the most popular ones are machboos and harees. Machboos is a spiced rice dish that is made with meat (usually chicken or lamb), tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices. The dish is often garnished with fried onions and served with a side of salad or raita. Harees, on the other hand, is a porridge-like dish that is made with ground wheat and meat (usually lamb or chicken). It is slow-cooked for several hours until it becomes a creamy, delicious dish that is perfect for any time of the day.
Seafood delights: grilled kingfish and lobster
Oman is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, so it’s no surprise that seafood is a big part of the cuisine. Grilled kingfish and lobster are two must-try seafood dishes in Oman. The kingfish is marinated in a blend of spices and served with a side of salad or rice. The lobster is grilled to perfection and served with a side of lemon butter sauce. Both dishes are fresh, flavorful, and a great way to experience Oman’s seafood.
Vegetarian options: saloona and balaleet
Vegetarians will be happy to know that there are plenty of delicious options in Oman. Saloona is a vegetable stew that is made with a variety of vegetables (such as potatoes, carrots, and eggplant) and a blend of spices. Balaleet, on the other hand, is a sweet vermicelli dish that is made with saffron, cardamom, and sugar. It is often served with a side of omelet or cheese.
Sweet treats: halwa and dates
No meal is complete without dessert, and Oman has some delicious sweet treats to try. Halwa is a sweet, sticky dessert that is made with sugar, ghee, and flour. It is often flavored with cardamom, saffron, and rosewater. Dates are also a popular sweet treat in Oman. They are often served with a side of Arabic coffee and are a great way to end any meal.
