Joanna James
Lauded as the "Pearl of Arabia," Omani cuisine is as diverse as its natural landscapes. Packed with flavour, fragrances, and a medley of cultural influences, discover the classics with a guide to the must-try dishes of Oman.
As the sun sets over Oman, walking streets and markets awaken with the sound of sizzling grills, plumes of smoke, and the unmistakable, mouthwatering scent of Mishkak.
Oman's favourite street food is essential to any must-try menu. Skewered meats are coated in yoghurt, spices, and a tangy tamarind sauce, and left to char as the meat becomes juicy and tender. Vendors plate the Mishkak with extra sauce on the side, serving patrons across markets, streets, and even restaurants in Oman. The dishes' popularity is so vast that some cities even host dedicated streets lined with endless Mishkak stalls, certifying these delectable skewers as a staple in Omani culture.
Shuwa is a celebration of Oman's rich heritage, and its creation is a labour of love. On the first day of Eid, lamb, camel, or any other popular meat is marinated in a blend of spices unique to each household. Wrapped in banana leaf and left in an underground oven, it is left to cook for 2 days. The result is a tender and melt-in-your-mouth meat, encased in a flavourful spice-packed crust. Shuwa is best served with a helping of fragrant rice and tomato sauce, guaranteeing a decadent and heartwarming meal.
A core feature at dinner tables and restaurants, Kabouli is Oman’s answer to biryani or pilaf, served in the form of a fragrant rice dish wafting with perfumed flavours. This Omani classic consists of spiced rice mixed with slow-cooked meat (usually lamb or chicken) and garnished with nuts, raisins, and caramelised onions. The aromatic blend of spices, including cinnamon and cardamom, makes it a satisfying meal for any.
Oman's vast coastal landscapes and ports have given way to a variety of mouthwatering seafood, and none highlights this better than Mashuai. Typically prepared with the ever-abundant kingfish, the dish calls for a tender fish roasted whole in a variety of oils and spices, from cumin and ground coriander seeds to turmeric, ginger, and salt. Served on a bed of steaming lemon rice and paired with a helping of cashews, Mashuai perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Omani coastline.
A dessert that defines luxury, each bite of Omani Halwa promises a silky smooth, fragrant culinary experience. This rich, sticky dessert is the perfect finish to any meal, cutting into the savoury of rice and meat with a blend of sugar, rose water, nuts, and saffron. Inspired by flavours from across the Asian continent, Omani Halwa is a gesture of the nation's warm hospitality. Sample the chewy dessert at a family-run sweet shop in Seeb or a luxury restaurant at a resort, such as Al Qalaa in Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort.
Drizzled with premium date syrup or honey, Lokhemat are an addictive delicacy. Dough balls that are flavoured with cardamom are deep-fried till crispy, making them a deliciously sweet treat. These decadent dumplings are often served during festive occasions and are best enjoyed with a cup of traditional Omani coffee.
No adventure in Oman is complete without a cup of Kahwa. This classic Omani coffee is a staple of local hospitality; the strong, cardamom-infused drink is typically served in small cups alongside dates or sweets, creating a balance between the sugar and the bitterness of the coffee. In Oman, drinking Kahwa is a social ritual, symbolising warmth and generosity.
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.
