Joanna James
Oman is a country which has a long history with the early settlers living by the sea engaged in fishing and thereafter embracing cultivation using rainwater and venturing into other parts of the country too. Omani cuisine is unique and has evolved over centuries enticing visitors to savour them.
A speciality dish in Oman Shuwa is prepared for special occasions such as the Eid Festival. The meat of your preference like lamb, goat or beef is marinated well in advance using spices such as coriander, cinnamon, cardamom, cumin etc and wrapped in banana or palm leaves and slow roasted for at least 24 hours in a sand oven dug deep before it is ready for consumption. Once done the tender and aromatic meat with the layer of spices is eaten with relish accompanied by rice or traditional Omani bread.
This is a popular dish for lunch or dinner using chicken, beef or even fish. The Salona is a slow-cooked stew of the meat or fish with an assortment of vegetables in a tomato-based broth turning out into a colourful and filling dish. Usually eaten with steamed white rice or Qabuly bread this dish is a fast-moving one at many Oman restaurants.
These well-marinated bite-sized cubes of meat using beef, chicken or mutton are mounted on skewers and grilled to perfection emanating a mouthwatering aroma. The taste of the tender and moist meat is enhanced by all the flavours of the marinate using cardamom, pepper, coriander, tamarind, cumin, cinnamon etc. Usually eaten with Omani bread and a well sought-after dish by guests at Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara.
Also known as Makboos or Kabsa this is a common rice dish in Oman enjoyed by visitors too. Made with long-grained and aromatic basmati rice, the meat of your preference and vegetables with an assortment of traditional spices and herbs. Although spices are used, this is not a spicy rice dish, it is rather tantalising savoury rice compelling you to consume every morsel of it. Usually, this is served with a green salad and yoghurt. A must-try dish when in Oman.
Meaning Coffee in Arabic, Kahwa is a popular drink in Oman enjoyed by both young and the old at any time during the day. Brewed as a strong drink unlike many other varieties of coffee, Kahwa is elegantly served in small cups accompanied by traditional Omani dates and Halwa. Try this brew as it tastes good, to add flavour cardamom powder is blended into the coffee beans at times, this variation is a heavenly brew too.
A delicious pita sandwich loaded with meat, that is prepared as you wait to be served. Thin cuts of seasoned and cooked meat and fresh strips of vegetables such as lettuce, gherkin, and tomatoes lashed with garlic paste are wrapped tight in freshly bakes pita bread and served with fries and sauce making it a filling and delightful meal.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
