Table of Contents

Omani Cuisine

Shuwa

Shuwa is a festive dish where marinated lamb is wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked in an underground sand oven for up to 48 hours. It’s tender, flavorful, and a true Omani delicacy. 1)

Majboos (Kabsa)

A traditional rice dish similar to biryani, Majboos is made with saffron, mixed spices, and meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb). It’s often garnished with fried onions and nuts. 2)

Mashuai

This is a dish of spit-roasted kingfish served with rice. The fish is usually marinated in a mix of spices and lime before being cooked to perfection. 3)

Harees

A dish made from wheat mixed with meat (usually chicken or lamb) and cooked until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. It’s often seasoned with cardamom and served during Ramadan. 4)

Mishkak

Skewers of marinated meat (typically beef, chicken, or lamb) that are grilled over charcoal. They are often served with a spicy tamarind sauce. 5)

Madrouba

A comforting dish made with rice, chicken, and a blend of spices, all cooked together until the rice is mushy and soft. It’s often garnished with fried onions. 6)

Sakina

A traditional Omani soup made with wheat, lentils, and a variety of spices. It’s hearty and often served during special occasions. 7)

Qabuli

A rice dish similar to pilaf, made with spiced rice, meat, and sometimes vegetables. It’s a flavorful and aromatic dish often garnished with nuts and raisins. 8)

Halwa

A sweet and sticky dessert made from sugar, rose water, saffron, and nuts. It has a jelly-like consistency and is often flavored with cardamom and other spices. 9)

Sambousa

A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced meat, vegetables, or lentils. It’s a popular snack, especially during Ramadan. 10)

Makbous

A rice dish that is similar to Majboos but often includes dried lime (loomi) for a unique tangy flavor. It’s usually made with lamb or chicken. 11)

Khabeesa

A traditional sweet dish made from roasted semolina mixed with sugar, ghee, and cardamom. It’s often garnished with nuts and served as a dessert. 12)

Malfoof

A dish of cabbage leaves stuffed with spiced rice and meat, similar to dolma. It’s simmered in a tomato-based sauce until tender. 13)

Laban

A refreshing yogurt drink often flavored with mint and cucumber. It’s a cooling beverage that pairs well with spicy dishes. 14)

Mahalabiya

A creamy milk pudding flavored with rose water and cardamom. It’s often garnished with pistachios or almonds and served chilled. 15)